Wed 14th Aug 2024

Why Has My Cat Stopped Grooming Themselves?

We all know cats are pretty fastidious creatures. They spend a good chunk of their day diligently licking and cleaning their fur, keeping themselves looking and feeling tip-top. So, if you’ve noticed your feline friend neglecting their usual grooming routine, it’s understandable to be a bit concerned. In this article, Vet James Arding at Estcourt Vets shares five common reasons why cats slow down or give up on grooming, along with what you should do.

If you have any concerns about your cat’s health and wellbeing, book an appointment at our vet practice in Devizes.

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According to Vet James Arding, there are several reasons why a cat might stop grooming themselves, and some are more concerning than others. Let’s delve into the most common culprits:

  1. Ouch! It Hurts: Just like us, cats can find grooming uncomfortable if they’re in pain. Arthritis, sore muscles, or dental problems can make reaching certain areas difficult.
  2. Carrying Excess Weight: As cats gain weight, especially around their middle, it can become physically harder for them to properly groom everywhere.
  3. Feeling Under the Weather: If your cat isn’t feeling well, they simply might not have the energy to focus on grooming. James advises that this could be due to an illness, like a urinary tract infection, or even stress.
  4. Senior Slump: As cats get older, they may lose some flexibility and eyesight, making thorough grooming a challenge.
  5. Skin and Coat Issues: Dry, itchy skin or problems with their fur, like matting, can discourage cats from grooming.

What to do if your cat stops grooming

If you notice your cat neglecting their grooming, James advises following these steps:

  • Step 1 – Take a closer look. Are there any obvious signs of pain, like difficulty moving or wincing? Does their fur look dull, matted, or have patches missing?
  • Step 2Book a cat check-up with us at Estcourt Vets so we can rule out any underlying medical conditions. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference to your cat’s health and wellbeing.
  • Step 3 – James explains that in the meantime, you can help your cat by gently brushing them to remove loose fur and prevent matting. If they seem particularly uncomfortable, a soft washcloth dampened with warm water can help clean areas they might be struggling with.

Remember, a clean cat is often a happy cat! By keeping an eye on your feline friend’s grooming habits and scheduling regular check-ups at Estcourt Vets, you can help ensure they stay healthy and happy.

Book your cat a check-up today with James or any of our other cat-loving vets! You can call us on 01380 723687 or visit our booking page now.

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