My short-haired cat's fur is clumping on his back. What's causing it?

Question

My 5 year old indoor cat Tommy's fur is clumping up on his back. His nose is cold telling me that he is healthy, he also eats and drinks like he always does. He is a DSH. Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 5 years and 3 months old | 20 lbs

Anna M., DVM · Accepted Answer

Hi, matted hair is common in domestic medium- and long-haired cats, especially in areas that are difficult to groom. Its unusual for fur to clump or become matted in a short-haired cat, though. This makes me wonder if there might be a wound or infection hidden beneath the clumped fur, that would be making the hairs stick together. If Tommy allows you to, I recommend seeing if you can brush his fur to relieve the clumping. If you can't, there is likely some sort of dried matter or discharge causing the clumping and I'd bring him in to the vet to determine the source of the problem. Similarly, if Tommy is sensitive or won't let you touch those areas, I'd be concerned about a problem on his skin, and recommend having him seen by a vet. Hope this helps!

My short-haired cat's fur is clumping on his back. What's causing it?

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