We know how much you adore your feline friends and how much you care about their well-being, especially as they enter their golden years.
Today, we are going to explore a topic that is of great concern to many of you – your elderly cat’s behavior, specifically when they start pulling their fur out.
Your furry friend has been your loyal companion for many years, and it’s natural to worry when you see them engaging in such behavior.
But don’t worry, we’re here to help you understand why this might be happening and how you can best support your feline friend during this time.
So get ready to dive into this comprehensive guide that will help you better understand and care for your elderly cat. Let’s learn together, shall we?
Understanding the behavior of your senior cat
As a cat ages, changes in their behavior can be quite noticeable. Among these changes, one that often worries cat owners is when their furry friend starts pulling their fur out.
There is a multitude of reasons why your elderly cat may be engaging in such behavior, and it’s essential to understand these reasons to address and manage the issue effectively.
Medical conditions causing fur-pulling
One of the most common reasons why a senior cat may be pulling their fur out is due to underlying medical conditions.
As cats age, they are more susceptible to health problems, such as skin allergies, parasites, or fungal infections, which can cause itchiness and discomfort leading to fur-pulling.
For example, a cat might develop an allergy to a certain food ingredient, resulting in skin irritation and subsequent fur-pulling to relieve the itch.
Stress and anxiety in elderly cats
Another common reason for fur-pulling in senior cats is stress and anxiety. Just like humans, cats can experience stress and anxiety, which can manifest in various ways, including fur-pulling.
Changes in their environment, such as moving to a new home or the addition of a new pet or family member, can cause stress in cats.
This is similar to the case of Missy, an 11-year-old cat who started pulling her fur out when her owner brought home a new puppy.
Compulsive behavior in cats
Compulsive behavior is another possible reason for fur-pulling in your elderly cat. This is a behavior disorder where a cat will repeatedly perform a certain behavior, such as fur-pulling, even when it results in self-harm.
This behavior can be triggered by stress, but it can also be due to genetic factors or underlying medical conditions.
Seeking professional help
If your cat is pulling her fur out, it is important to seek professional help from a vet.
They can conduct a thorough examination to identify any underlying medical conditions, provide suitable treatment, and give advice on managing stress and anxiety in your cat.
Understanding why your elderly cat is pulling her fur out is crucial for her wellbeing. It could be a sign of underlying medical conditions, stress and anxiety, or compulsive behavior.
Always consult with your vet if you notice any changes in your cat’s behavior.
Did this article help you understand why your elderly cat is pulling her fur out? If so, please share it on your social networks to help other cat owners who might be experiencing the same issue with their senior feline companions.
