Older cats may need more grooming help than they did in their younger years. Arthritis, reduced flexibility and some medical conditions can make reaching parts of the coat difficult.
Gentle assistance can prevent painful mats while also giving owners an opportunity to notice changes in skin, fur or body condition.
Notice Changes First
A sudden decline in self-grooming deserves attention. Purina notes that older cats may groom less because of arthritis, excess weight or illnesses that affect their coat and overall health.
Use a Gentle Brush
Senior skin can be sensitive, so grooming should feel comfortable rather than forceful. A soft, appropriate brush used in short sessions can remove loose hair while reducing unnecessary pulling.
Focus on Hard-to-Reach Areas
Older cats may struggle to reach the lower back, base of the tail and other areas that require bending or twisting. These places can become oily, tangled or matted when mobility declines.
Keep Sessions Short
A cat with arthritis may become uncomfortable if held in one position for too long. Several brief grooming sessions can be easier to tolerate than trying to finish the entire coat at once.
Never Pull at Mats
Tight mats can tug painfully at the skin. Do not aggressively pull or cut close to an older cat’s skin. Severe matting may be safer for a veterinarian or experienced professional groomer to remove.
Check Skin While Brushing
Part the coat gently and look for redness, lumps, wounds, parasites or unusual dandruff. Grooming provides a useful opportunity to notice changes that might otherwise remain hidden beneath the fur.
Remember the Claws
Older cats may scratch and climb less, allowing claws to become long or curved. Check them regularly and ask a veterinarian or groomer to demonstrate safe trimming if you are uncertain.
Call the Vet for Changes
An unkempt coat should not automatically be dismissed as normal aging. Hyperthyroidism, diabetes, kidney problems, obesity and painful joints can all affect grooming, according to Purina’s 2026 senior-care guidance.
