Is flea dirt the culprit of matting?

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Make certain all flea control products used are guaranteed safe for cats. 

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[text_output]Fleas are terrible in our area of Northern California. They’ve become resistant to many common topical treatments. Eradicating them requires a double-focus approach: 1) ongoing preventative care for the cat and 2) environmental protections. I recommend FleaBusters for in-home treatment. I believe their product/service is guaranteed for a full year. I’m not affiliated with that company and receive no compensation from them. I and several of my clients have had success using their services. Your cat’s veterinarian should be a good resource for further discussion about appropriate parasitic control options, as well as the additional risks involved with flea infestations.[/text_output]

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What’s up with matting?

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[text_output]Cats develop mats for a number of reasons. Fleas and the subsequent debris they leave on a cat’s skin and coat will exacerbate the issue. Fleas feed on the cat, then poop. That’s what those tiny dark-colored flakes and thin swirls are in the fur and on the skin. It’s easy to confirm flea droppings. Comb through a section of the coat and dump the collection on a white paper towel. Spray lightly with water, then smudge to see if it turns red/rusty. That’s the dried processed blood. So gross! When cats are allergic to flea bites, severe dermatitis may result. Poor kitties! Can you imagine how miserable that must feel?[/text_output]

[text_output]Matting often happens after a cat goes through a shed cycle, typically in spring triggered by the longer days and warmer weather. Although, it’s important to point out matting can occur anytime of the year. Every cat is unique and individual attention is required. Problems occur when the dead hair naturally falls out and then becomes trapped in the coat. The combination of oil, dirt, and dander act as a binding agent. Over a short amount of time, a tangle can develop into a tight and painful mat causing distress and potential skin infections. If the problem seems to have a pattern, it’s important to figure out what triggers the matting and be proactive.[/text_output]

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[text_output]Frequent combing will remove loose fur making it easier to handle small tangles and prevent matting and those dreaded hairballs. The best tools for everyday care are a fine/wide tooth combination stainless steel comb and a soft-pin slicker brush. Those will be enough for most daily grooming, although there are many other options available for varying needs and preferences. Bathing may be necessary to give kitty a fresh start.

In addition to a dirty and uncombed coat, cats may become matted when their health is in decline. This could be due to a specific sudden crisis, an ongoing health issue, or advanced age and the commonly co-morbid condition of arthritis. Painful joints and poor dental health make it difficult to impossible for a cat to properly care for themselves. Overweight cats may not be able to reach certain areas of their bodies, particularly their hind quarters. Special care and consideration are needed in different circumstances.[/text_output]

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Help a Kitty Out

When we assist our cats with their grooming needs, we must ensure it’s a pleasant experience for them. With gentle handling, making positive association using desirable treats and pleasurable petting while keeping the grooming sessions brief, many cats become agreeable to routine upkeep. By continually using this approach, our cats will greatly enjoy the bonding time. Of course, it’s wonderful in countless ways for us, too.

Purrs,

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