Grooming a Senior Cat

Is your kitty in her senior years? If so, she may need a helping hand with her beauty routine. Older cats often have trouble bending and stretching. This can make it hard for them to clean themselves as they age. Obesity can also be an issue. Plus, your cute pet’s skin may produce more oil as she grows older, especially if she develops medical issues. You’ll need to brush Fluffy regularly to prevent painful mats and tangles. A local vet offers some advice on this below.

Make It Fun

Kitty beauty sessions will be more pleasant for both of you if your pet thinks she’s being pampered. Timing is very important here. Wait until Fluffy is feeling relaxed. (That probably won’t be hard.) Incorporate pets, ear scritches, and treats, and talk to your furry pal gently in a relaxed tone of voice.

Choose Proper Equipment

Wire brushes can work great on dogs with double coats, but they’re not suitable for older kitties. Use something softer instead. Ask your vet for recommendations.

 Do It Regularly

Grooming Fluffy regularly will help keep her fur from forming mats. Brushing your feline pal is always easier than trying to deal with fur that’s already tangled! It can also help prevent hairballs. If you have a longhaired cat, you’ll likely need to brush her daily. Aim for short, daily sessions.

Be Gentle

Always be extremely careful when brushing an older cat. Fluffy may be very stiff and sore, so pulling too hard on knots could hurt her. Plus, senior cats have very thin skin that can rip easily.

Wipes

Does Fluffy sometimes get a dirty behind? You can use a damp washcloth or cat wipes to keep her clean. Ask your vet for specific advice on this.

Know When To Get Help

If your cat ever gets extremely tangled or matted, you may need to bring her to a professional groomer. Fluffy may not be thrilled going to the salon, but her safety and well-being should trump her opinion. 

Pawdicures

Fluffy’s claws will thicken as she grows older. She could also become more prone to getting caught on things. Make sure she has a good scratching post or board.

Regular Veterinary Care

Your furry buddy should see her vet regularly. She may need to come in more often as she ages. Keep in mind that skin or coat issues can sometimes be indicative of underlying health issues. Watch for things like lumps, bumps, lesions, redness, and swelling. 

Contact us, your local veterinary clinic, anytime. We are always here to help!