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My long-haired kitten gets poop stuck in her fur. How can I help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Ragdoll | Female | spayed | 5 months old | 5 lbs

Hi, My cat is a 5 months old Ragdoll. I don't know why she sometimes gets poop stuck in her fur or tail. I tried to get as much of it out with toilet paper, then a wet rag, but I couldn't get it all, and she was getting pretty upset. Is there anyway I can help her doing this? Is it because she gets loose stools? Should I change her food and litter box? Thanks

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on July 23rd, 2017

A little added fiber or a daily pet probiotic can help firm up loose stools, however bringing a stool sample into the vet to rule out anything such as parasites or an underlying illness causing it is a good idea. In some cases, even normal stools can sometimes get stuck on long-haired cats. Gently trimming the area to make it less easy for stool to stick, or using a pet wipe after Pockey gets out of the litter box before the stool can dry may help make it easier to clean.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Anna M., DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 13th, 2017

    Hello, and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Most cats should groom themselves clean, but some cats can struggle to do so, especially if they are overweight (and may have trouble reaching their hind end), if they have very long hair, or if they're struggling with diarrhea. If Snow has very long hair, you could ask the vet or a groomer to clip her hind end a little bit so it's easier to keep clean. You can then keep baby wipes around and wipe her hind end whenever you notice she needs help staying clean. Keep an eye on her litterbox, and if her stools seem softer than usual then it's worth having a vet take a look at her to make sure she doesn't have a medical issue that needs to be addressed.

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 20th, 2019

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Bosie. I recommend that she has a sanitary clip. This is where the hair is shaved around her back end to prevent feces from becoming stuck in her long hair. This is a common problem with long haired cats. I hope this information helps!

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