I have a 17 year old Maine Coon, who just recently became a strictly outdoor (unless the weather is too harsh) cat. In his adventures, he has become badly matted all over his body. I have tried (with help) to eliminate as much knotting/matting as possible, but to no avail. I am considering taking him to a groomer or the vet to be shaved. However, I am worried about his advanced age combined with anesthesia and of course, whether it will make any difference to have him shaved since he is outside so often. Also, if I decide to leave him as he is, are there any problems that may arise as a result of his mats? Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you so much!!! Kourtney

-- Anonymous, April 13, 1999

Answers

Kourtney,

1st...why has he become an outside cat all of a sudden? He could be depressed and has stopped grooming. Or he could be ill, maybe suffering from kidney failure. I would just cut the mats out, I would not shave or put him under at his age.

-- Anonymous, May 25, 1999

Mats have to hurt.I try to steel comb cats daily.For bad knots I use dog slicker brush and slowly work out.I had a cat that would suddenly mat in summer.He was a barn cat I took in, and let out.I used to slicker out his mats,but slowly, not pulling with sucess.

-- Anonymous, May 27, 1999