Is your kitty in her golden years? If so, she may need a helping hand with her beauty routine. Senior 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 cat’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
Fluffy’s 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 and cuddly. Incorporate pets, ear scritches, and treats, and talk to your kitty gently in a relaxed tone of voice.
Do It Regularly
Grooming Fluffy regularly will help keep her fur from forming mats. It can also help prevent hairballs. Brushing your feline pal is always easier than trying to deal with fur that’s already tangled! If you have a longhaired cat, you’ll likely need to brush her daily.
Be Gentle
Always be extremely careful when brushing an older cat. Fluffy may be very stiff and sore. Pulling hard on knots can hurt her. Plus, senior cats have very thin skin that can rip easily.
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.
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 feline pal 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 may also become more prone to getting caught on things. Make sure that your furry friend has a good scratching post or board.
Regular Veterinary Care
Your furry buddy should see her vet regularly. Keep in mind that skin or coat issues can sometimes be indicative of underlying health issues. For more information on maintaining your senior cat’s health through regular check-ups and preventive care, visit our Veterinary Wellness & Pet Vaccinations page.
Contact us, your local veterinary clinic in Hobe Sound, FL, anytime. We are always here to help! While we’ve focused on senior cat care in this article, we understand that many pet owners have diverse furry families. If you’re also caring for a small canine companion, you might find our article on Caring for a Toy Breed Dog helpful for understanding their unique needs.
