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My fat long-haired cat's sore bum is irritated. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 5 years old

Hi there, I have a long haired cat who's a little fat and she got poop (looked a bit diarrhea ish but I can't really tell because it was smeared) on her bum and we washed the area and shaved some of it but it looks irritated or infected. Should we let her lick it and should she get antibiotics or will it clear up? it seems like it hurts her, she's a bit crabby.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rosemary Barber, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 15th, 2017

Hello! Yes, cats that are overweight often get an infected rash in this area. Cats have trouble grooming this area when they are overweight. If the area is sore and infected looking, it is much better to take Carmen in to see her vet to have the area checked. Your vet can likely prescribe a cream to use topically. At the clinic, they will likely be able to shave and clean the area fully, and this will help things to heal up normally.

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