Why do old cats get matted fur?
While a lack of grooming sometimes is just part of old age, many times there may be a medical cause for it in your elderly feline. Illnesses such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, hypertension and kidney problems can cause dandruff and matted fur, and these conditions are common in older kitties.
When does your cat don’t self groom?
Cats learn to groom by watching their mothers clean themselves when they are kittens. If a cat was taken from their mother too soon or if their mother never learned grooming habits herself, a cat may need help staying well-groomed. In addition, some older cats become unable to groom, like if they suffer from joint pain, or become overweight.
Why does my cat have a hard time grooming?
In addition, some older cats become unable to groom, like if they suffer from joint pain, or become overweight. Both conditions can make it difficult for a cat to get at the nooks and crannies where they used to spend so much time. Cats with medical problems may also find it hard to groom.
Why are senior cats so lax in grooming?
Senior cats may also become lax in their grooming habits due to obesity, which can come on from decreased activity in old age, Millward says. This can lead to unkempt fur and a dirty posterior because your cat cannot lick himself clean in that area.
When do you need to help your cat with grooming?
However, some cats may need help with their grooming. Sometimes, due to age or breed traits, or because of a new medical condition, grooming may fall to the way side. When your cat falls short in their own grooming, you can step in to help. Keeping your cat well groomed is important to their health and well being.
Cats learn to groom by watching their mothers clean themselves when they are kittens. If a cat was taken from their mother too soon or if their mother never learned grooming habits herself, a cat may need help staying well-groomed. In addition, some older cats become unable to groom, like if they suffer from joint pain, or become overweight.
Senior cats may also become lax in their grooming habits due to obesity, which can come on from decreased activity in old age, Millward says. This can lead to unkempt fur and a dirty posterior because your cat cannot lick himself clean in that area.
Can You groom an old cat with matted cat hair?
Because some senior cats may need more help grooming than younger felines, pet parents may notice an increase in matted cat hair on their senior cats, and learning exactly how to groom an old cat becomes essential. I currently share my home with three senior cats.
How old is a 14 year old cat?
At 14 years (still in the senior category) to 18 years (well into the geriatric age division), their ages are equivalent to people in their early 70s to late 80s. Like most senior and geriatric cats, my pets don’t get around quite like they used to.