Grooming a Senior Cat

Is your cat e ntering or already in her golden years? If so, she may need a helping hand with her beauty routine. Senior cats often have difficulty bending and stretching. Obesity can also be an issue. This can make it hard for them to keep up with their beauty regimes as they age. Plus, the skin of many cats, particularly those with medical issues, produces more oil as they grow older. You’ll need to brush Fluffy regularly to keep her fur from getting greasy or matted. A local vet offers some advice on this below.

M  ake It Fun

Brushing your pet will be more pleasant for both of you if your pet thinks she’s being pampered. Timing is very important. Wait until Fluffy is feeling relaxed and cuddly. Incorporate pets, ear scritches, and treats, and talk to your furry friend gently in a relaxed, happy tone of voice.

Do It Regularly

Grooming Fluffy regularly will help keep her fur from forming mats. It can also help prevent hairballs. These things are both reason enough to brush her regularly. This will be much easier than trying to deal with fur that’s already tangled. 

Be Gentle

Always be extremely careful when brushing an older feline. Fluffy could be quite stiff and sore. Pulling hard on tangles can hurt her. Plus, senior cats have very thin skin that can rip easily.

Choose Proper Equipment

Wire brushes can work great on dogs with double coats, but they’re not great for older kitties. Use something softer instead. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Wipes

It’s not uncommon for older kitties to get dirty behinds. If this happens, you can use a damp washcloth or cat wipes to keep Fluffy clean. Ask your vet for specific advice on this.

Know When To Get Help

If your furball ever gets extremely tangled or matted, you may need to bring her to a professional groomer. Fluffy might not be thrilled going to the salon, but her safety and well-being should trump her opinion. 

Pawdicures

Fluffy’s claws will get thicker as she ages. She may also become more prone to getting caught on things. Make sure that your kitty has a good scratching post or board.

Regular Veterinary Care

Your furry buddy should see her vet regularly. Keep in mind that skin or coat issues can sometimes be indicative of underlying health issues. 

Contact us, your local veterinary clinic, anytime. We are always here to help!