My 13-year-old cat is shedding a lot and has matted fur. What to do?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 13 years and 7 months old | 5 lbs
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.
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on August 8th, 2018
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!
4Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on December 15th, 2019
I'd start brushing Tessie daily. If you have trouble getting the matts out, have her seen by a vet to get her groomed. I'd also have her seen by a vet for a health check, as not grooming herself can be a sign of illness.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on September 7th, 2017
Older cats are often not as good at grooming themselves due to pain or arthritis. She may have difficulty reaching the usual spots. You can help by brushing her more often but if she's painful I would talk to your vet about pain management. Good luck!
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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