My 13-year-old cat is shedding a lot and has matted fur. What to do?

Question

I think my calico cat is shedding excessively and her fur is matted quite a bit, especially on her backside and sides. Never outside. I believe she is around 13 yrs old. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 13 years and 7 months old | 5 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

This could be due to Kitty's age. When cats are older, they can groom themselves less effectively than younger cats, sometimes resulting in hair matting, skin odor, and inflammation. It could also be that she has arthritis, making it painful for her to reach around to groom her backside and sides. I would make an appointment for her with a groomer. They can brush out her matts (they may need to be shaved), and get her coat back into a better condition. Then you should brush her daily to prevent further matts from occurring. It's very important to get those matts removed asap, as they will be pulling on her skin and it will be painful for her. I'd also make an appointment with her vet for a health check, geriatric blood panel, and urinalysis just to see if everything is ok health wise for her. The vet can also examine her to see if she has arthritis, and can prescribe pain medications as needed. Please do not give her any human pain medications, many are toxic to cats and are fatal if given. Give a groomer and her vet a call today. I hope this helps!

My 13-year-old cat is shedding a lot and has matted fur. What to do?

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