Lack of Grooming in Cats

Cats naturally groom themselves

Cats naturally groom themselves. It is instinctual. Some cats actually over groom as a neurotic behavior. So, if a cat stops grooming herself, you can be sure something is wrong. A cat may be sick, in pain, depressed, or in the case of an older cat, it may be a sign of feline dementia.

Significance

Cats stop grooming because there is a reason to stop grooming. The cat is most likely in pain and can't tolerate the simple act of grooming herself. Your cat may show other signs of pain, such as lashing out when touched or being cranky.

Types

Cats who do not groom themselves may be suffering pain from arthritis. The reason why the cat doesn't groom is because it hurts to groom a particular area or it hurts to move to groom.

Cats may also fail to groom due to dementia. Dementia occurs in older cats. A cat with dementia will also be more vocal, may forget to eat and may stop using the litter box.

Cats suffering from depression may not groom themselves, may hide and may appear lethargic. They may sleep more and may be cranky or aggressive.

Lastly, a sick cat may not groom herself. Cats who are ill may show similar symptoms to depressed cats.

Identification

If your cat fails to groom herself, she may have mats and clumps of dirty hair, especially around the anus and the genital regions. She may smell and her coat may either be oily or full of dandruff.

Prevention/Solution

A cat who does not groom herself needs to have a veterinarian exam her thoroughly to determine why she isn't grooming herself. If the underlying cause has little treatment, you may have to brush and comb your kitty to ensure that she is free from mats and tangles.

In the case of kitty depression, consider spending more time with your cat. Sometimes playing with your cat plus adding a little catnip here and there is a good way to help a depressed feline. Be aware that many diseases can mimic depression, so you really need to have a veterinarian rule out other causes.

Warning

Cats often suffer in silence and do not give their owners many signs of being sick. Do not ignore symptoms of lack of self-grooming. It can point to a more serious problem.

References

• "Guide to a Healthy Cat," Elaine Wexler-Mitchell, DVM, 2004.
• VIP Pet Insurance: Feline Depression
• CatCustomer.com: Senior Cat Dementia