Increased sleeping or sleeping in just one position Decreased appetite Increased aggression, especially when touched or moved Change in litter box habits Abnormal body positions that seem to favor a painful area Tooth decay or foul breath
If your cat is thin but ignores hard to reach spots, it might have another mobility issue, like a bone or joint disorder.
Kittens can also have grooming issues if they were separated from their mother before learning to self-groom. [5] X Expert Source Molly DeVossCertified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant Expert Interview. 15 July 2021. You’ll have to groom it yourself, but in time it will likely begin cleaning itself. Start grooming it as soon as possible to teach it to enjoy the grooming process. [6] X Research source Take time to brush them daily, clean their ears, and keep their nails trimmed. [7] X Expert Source Molly DeVossCertified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant Expert Interview. 15 July 2021.
Hiding, withdrawal, or lack of interest in play Defensive aggression Heightened startle response Urinating or defecating outside of the litter box
Common pain-related conditions associated with reduced grooming include dental disease and bone or joint disorders.
Consult the vet about any dietary changes and additional exercise. Losing too much weight too quickly can be harmful, and you should make sure your cat is healthy enough for more activity. If you free feed your cat, switch to scheduled feeding times to prevent overeating.
Depending on the issue’s severity, you’ll most likely need to take over grooming responsibilities during treatment or for the duration of your cat’s life. [12] X Research source
While medication can alleviate pain on a temporary basis, it might not restore your cat’s mobility. You’ll most likely have to take over grooming responsibilities.
Try to give your cat a consistent schedule. If possible, feed and play with it at the same times each day, and go to work and come home at the same times. If you don’t already, clean the litter box daily. Heights can help reduce stress in cats, so consider getting a cat tree.
Report any of these issues to your cat’s vet.
Groom a shorthaired cat at least twice a week. Longhaired cats require daily grooming. Try trimming the fur around the legs and rear of your longhaired cat to prevent matting and soiling. If your older cat has sore joints, it may find a rubber-deshedding tool such as the ZoomGroom to be more gentle on sore hips, shoulders, and elbows.
Only use shampoo marked for cats.
