Cat Matted Fur Old Age

These types of diseases are more common during the feline geriatric years.

Cat matted fur old age.

Illnesses such as hypothyroidism hyperthyroidism hypertension and kidney problems can cause dandruff and matted fur and these conditions are common in older kitties. The symptoms of aging and death are similar. These tangles are not only unsightly they can also cause discomfort facilitate skin disorders or harbor worms mites or other pests. A stiff elbow or shoulder makes it awkward for a cat to use their facecloth a k a.

Their paw to wash. It is not so much old age but more typically the complications associated with failing organ systems that kill a cat. Senior cats may also become lax in their grooming habits due to obesity which can come on from decreased activity in old age millward says. Indoor only and shorthaired cats can also get mats from a buildup of dust and dander.

When a cat no longer shows an interest in grooming it s important to look for the underlying causes as an old cat with matted fur may be indicative of an underlying health issue. Dry food has been linked to matted fur problems and some owners have reported a positive change in fur health after switching away from a dry food diet. They could be in pain from dental problems or arthritis or they could have nausea. If she has an underlying health condition your vet might decide to place her on a therapeutic pet cat food such as hill s prescription diet to help control her condition.

However it will be the frequency and severity of these conditions that determine your cat s overall state. That s a lot of kitties with the potential for stiff sore joints. Dental issues the easiest place to start your investigation into why a senior cat isn t autogrooming as often is their mouth. You might also start adding more oils into your cat s diet for example fish oil capsules if they prefer this to coconut oil treatment.

Old infirm overweight and long haired cats in particular are more susceptible to tangled fur which can become clumped mats or knotted dreadlocks. It s also important for aging cats to drink plenty of clean fresh water to help improve kidney function and prevent dehydration. It s thought around 90 of cats aged over 12 years have radiographic signs of arthritis. Indications a cat is dying of old age.

Overweight old or sick cats can have a hard time reaching all areas of their bodies for grooming. When animals don t feel well they stop grooming.