Cat Given Up on Grooming? Read Bob’s Advice
August 21, 2024
We all know cats are pretty fastidious creatures. They spend a good chunk of their day diligently licking and cleaning their fur, keeping themselves looking and feeling tip-top. So, if you’ve noticed your feline friend neglecting their usual grooming routine, it’s understandable to be a bit concerned. In this article, Vet Bob O’Brien at Southill Vets shares five common reasons why cats slow down or give up on grooming, along with what you should do.
If you have any concerns about your cat’s health and wellbeing, book an appointment at our vet practice in Wincanton.
According to Vet Bob O’Brien, there are several reasons why a cat might stop grooming themselves, and some are more concerning than others. Let’s delve into the most common culprits:
- Ouch! It Hurts: Just like us, cats can find grooming uncomfortable if they’re in pain. Arthritis, sore muscles, or dental problems can make reaching certain areas difficult.
- Carrying Excess Weight: As cats gain weight, especially around their middle, it can become physically harder for them to properly groom everywhere.
- Feeling Under the Weather: If your cat isn’t feeling well, they simply might not have the energy to focus on grooming. Bob advises that this could be due to an illness, like a urinary tract infection, or even stress.
- Senior Slump: As cats get older, they may lose some flexibility and eyesight, making thorough grooming a challenge.
- Skin and Coat Issues: Dry, itchy skin or problems with their fur, like matting, can discourage cats from grooming.
What to do if your cat stops grooming
If you notice your cat neglecting their grooming, Bob advises following these steps:
- Step 1 – Take a closer look. Are there any obvious signs of pain, like difficulty moving or wincing? Does their fur look dull, matted, or have patches missing?
- Step 2 – Book a cat check-up with us at Southill Vets so we can rule out any underlying medical conditions. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference to your cat’s health and wellbeing.
- Step 3 – Bob explains that in the meantime, you can help your cat by gently brushing them to remove loose fur and prevent matting. If they seem particularly uncomfortable, a soft washcloth dampened with warm water can help clean areas they might be struggling with.
Remember, a clean cat is often a happy cat! By keeping an eye on your feline friend’s grooming habits and scheduling regular check-ups at Southill Vets, you can help ensure they stay healthy and happy.
Book your cat a check-up today with Bob or any of our other cat-loving vets! You can call us on 01963 33226 or visit our booking page now.
