OSRS Cave Slimes Slayer Guide: Best Tips for Efficient Task Completion

In Old School RuneScape (OSRS), Cave Slimes are a unique Slayer monster that offer decent experience and loot for mid-level players. Assigned by Slayer masters like Turael, Mazchna, or Vannaka, these gooey creatures are found in specific locations and require a bit of preparation to tackle efficiently. Whether you’re grinding Slayer levels or chasing specific drops, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Cave Slimes, from their location to combat strategies and rewards. Let’s dive in and make your next Slayer task a breeze!
Cave Slimes are level 23 Slayer monsters requiring a Slayer level of 17 to kill. They’re not the toughest foes in OSRS, but their poisonous nature makes them a bit tricky if you’re unprepared. Found exclusively in the Lumbridge Swamp Caves and Dorgesh-Kaan South Dungeon, these slimes are a staple for early-to-mid-game Slayer tasks.
Slayer Level and Assignment Details
You’ll need at least 17 Slayer to be assigned Cave Slimes, making them accessible to newer players. They’re often given in batches of 30-70 by low-tier Slayer masters, so they’re quick to knock out if you’re efficient.
Combat Stats and Behavior
With 25 Hitpoints and low offensive stats (20 Attack, 18 Strength), Cave Slimes aren’t a massive threat. However, they can inflict poison damage starting at 3, which can stack up if you’re not paying attention. Their attack style is melee, so they’re predictable but require some form of poison protection.
Where to Find Cave Slimes in OSRS
Location is key when hunting Cave Slimes. They spawn in two distinct areas, each with its own quirks. Here’s where to track them down:
Lumbridge Swamp Caves
This is the primary spot for Cave Slimes. Located beneath the Lumbridge Swamp, you’ll need a light source (like a lantern or candle) and a rope to enter via the main entrance near the swamp’s center. Watch out for Wall Beasts and other hazards as you navigate to the slime spawn areas.
Dorgesh-Kaan South Dungeon
Accessible after completing the Death to the Dorgeshuun quest, this dungeon is a less crowded alternative. Enter via the Dorgesh-Kaan agility course or the main city entrance, then head south. It’s darker and more maze-like, so bring a light source and expect fewer players competing for spawns.
Gear and Inventory Setup for Cave Slimes
Preparation is everything when facing Cave Slimes. You don’t need top-tier gear, but the right setup will save you time and hitpoints. Here’s what to bring:
Recommended Gear
- Weapon: A fast-hitting weapon like a Dragon Scimitar or Abyssal Whip (if you’re higher level). For budget options, a Rune Scimitar works fine.
- Armor: Mid-tier melee armor like Rune or Adamant. Prioritize defense over offense since poison is the real danger.
- Helmet: Slayer Helmet if on task for the accuracy and damage boost.
- Boots: Boots of Lightness or any lightweight option to reduce weight in the swampy caves.
Inventory Essentials
- Antipoison: At least 2-3 doses to counter their poison hits.
- Light Source: Bullseye Lantern or Seer’s Headband to navigate the caves.
- Food: 5-10 pieces of mid-tier food (e.g., lobsters or swordfish) for emergencies.
- Teleport: Lumbridge Teleport or Amulet of Glory for quick escapes.
- Rope: Required for Lumbridge Swamp Caves entry if it’s your first time.
Combat Strategies for Cave Slimes
Fighting Cave Slimes is straightforward, but their poison and the cave environment demand a solid approach. Here’s how to maximize efficiency and minimize hassle:
Poison Management
Pop an Antipoison before engaging if you’re prone to forgetting mid-fight. Their poison starts at 3 damage and ticks down, so it’s manageable with occasional sips. If you’re using a Slayer Helmet and decent gear, you might out-heal the damage with food alone.
Safe Spotting and Aggro Control
In the Lumbridge Swamp Caves, you can use the rocky terrain to safe spot Cave Slimes. Lure them behind stalagmites or walls, then attack with melee or ranged (if you prefer). They’re not highly aggressive, so you can control the fight by pulling one at a time.
Task Efficiency Tips
Use the Slayer Ring to teleport near Lumbridge Swamp for faster trips. If you’re in Dorgesh-Kaan, stick to the southernmost slime spawns to avoid wandering too far. Bring a cannon if you’re high enough level (and rich enough) to blast through tasks—though it’s overkill for such low HP mobs.
Loot and Rewards from Cave Slimes
Cave Slimes aren’t a goldmine, but their drops can add up over time. They’re worth killing for both Slayer XP and the occasional lucky roll. Here’s what you can expect:
Drop Table Highlights
Item | Drop Rate | Value (GE Price, April 2025) |
---|---|---|
Swamp Weed | Common (1/4) | ~500 GP |
Iron Boots | Rare (1/128) | ~30,000 GP |
Coins | Common (1-40) | 1-40 GP |
Water Rune | Uncommon (15) | ~75 GP |
Slayer XP and Profit Potential
Each Cave Slime gives 25 Slayer XP, making them a decent early grind at 750-1,750 XP per task. The real money comes from Iron Boots, though their rarity means you’re banking on luck. Swamp Weed is consistent but low-value unless you stack hundreds. Overall, expect 5k-20k GP per task unless you hit the jackpot.
Notable Rare Drops
The Iron Boots are the standout rare drop, useful for fashionscape or selling on the Grand Exchange. At 30k GP, they’re a nice bonus if RNG blesses you. Beyond that, the loot is mostly alch fodder or skilling supplies.
Wrapping up, Cave Slimes are a solid Slayer task for players looking to build their skills without too much risk. They’re not flashy, but with the right gear and strategy, you’ll clear them fast and maybe snag some decent loot along the way. Got a favorite Cave Slime story or tip? Drop it below—happy slaying!