why is my cat getting matts?

why is my cat getting matts?

A matt isn't always a grooming problem.

Cats normally remove loose fur as they groom themselves. So when a cat that previously kept itself well groomed starts developing matts, I want to know why.

Three things I commonly think about:

Weight. An overweight cat may simply be unable to reach parts of its body, particularly along the back and around the hindquarters.

Pain. Arthritis and other joint pain can make twisting and reaching uncomfortable, especially in older cats.

The mouth. A painful mouth can make grooming uncomfortable. When matting is more widespread, dental pain is one of the things worth considering.

Long-haired and very thick-coated cats can, of course, develop matts despite being perfectly well — particularly in high-friction areas such as behind the ears and under the legs.

But if your cat's coat has changed, particularly if they are older, don't just reach for the brush.

Ask why.

Stuart Ralph BVSc
Veterinarian and founder of WellCat