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Why did my cat stop grooming, get matted fur, and poop on himself?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Colorpoint Shorthair | Male | neutered | 3 years and 10 months old | 12 lbs

My cat is a 4 year old male, his name is Independence, I recently noticed that he has stopped cleaning himself and is getting really bad matts in his fur. He is now starting to have poop left on his behind. I am very concerned because he has always been very clean and taken very good care of his fur. I am not sure what could be causing him to no longer bathe himself or if it would be ok to shave him even though I dont want to. Would it be best for him if I did? What is wrong with him?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Chad Brown, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 15th, 2018

Thank you very much for providing the pictures of your cat. It always helps the more information we possess. Usually when cats stop grooming themselves, this is an indication that they do not feel well and could possibly be sick or have a disease condition. I do not recommend shaving him at this time but rather take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible so that he can have a physical examination performed. Most of the time, when cats begin to feel better because they’re getting treated correctly, they will begin grooming themselves. The veterinarian may need to do some diagnostic testing on him such as a fecal analysis, bloodwork, or x-rays to help determine what is causing this lethargy and inability to groom. Thanks a lot for your question. I hope I have provided you with some help.

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