Dirty cat butts aren't just a fleeting embarrassment; they challenge every cat lover to seek solutions.
Why does Kitty, known for her meticulous grooming, sometimes overlook her rear end? Is a particular food to blame, an unnoticed health issue, or age creeping in?
As dedicated cat parents, we must pinpoint these causes and take action.
This guide shines a light on the mysterious world of feline hygiene, offering you hands-on tips and advice. Together, we'll ensure Kitty's behind remains as spotless as her reputation.
All In All, Kitty Can Be A Smelly Mess
It’s Mama Cat’s job to keep the kittens clean until they are old enough to do the job themselves. In the absence of motivation, ability or good health, humans have to help out as needed.
Prevention starts with good quality food.
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Cheap food with uncertain ingredients, like meal or by-products, can upset a cat’s digestive system. Check the ingredients list on any diet or low-calorie foods Kitty’s eating.
Low-calorie foods often use fillers that make Kitty feel full but produce more waste. Don’t let Kitty stay outdoors to hunt.
A mouse or bird is not part of his usual diet and can cause stomach upsets you don’t want to deal with.
How To Clean Dirty Cat Butts
A damp paper towel can clean up simple messes. Be sure to use a good-quality towel. Cheap paper towels will leave “lint,” which only adds to the problem.
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After wiping with a damp towel, do a follow-up clean with another and dry with a final towel.
KKH, a TCS forum member, tried a cat bath wipe, but her cat didn't like it. The scent may have been the problem. AlphaCat, another TCS member, used butter in an emergency.
She softened the butter, let it melt on her fingers, and smeared it on Sam’s butt.
Click here to see this butter on Amazon.
Sam was sequestered in the laundry room for about half an hour to ensure he didn't smear butter on the furniture.
“I remembered the old wives' tale about putting butter on a cat’s paws after you move into a new house. Once Kitty has licked it off, he’ll remember the next time.
I thought it might work for grooming himself, and it did.”
Try sitting Kitty in warm water for more difficult messes to loosen any clogged areas. He will not like this part, so expect some (a lot) resistance.
If you can remove the worst of the mess, then it’s time for a haircut.
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Long-Haired Cats And Dirty Butts
If Kitty is long-haired, clip Kitty’s hair on his butt to give waste a clean exit. For dark-haired cats, a closer cut might be needed.
Use blunt-nosed scissors to start. Most cats won’t want the vibration of clippers on their behinds.
Click here to see this blunt nosed scissors on Amazon.
You might find red splotches where the hair matted and pulled, leaving irritation.
To keep Kitty from scooting on the carpet - it will itch as the area heals - or from inappropriate licking, an antibiotic cream from the vet will help.
Kitty may have to wear the dreaded cat cone so he’ll stay away from the area until it’s healed. Don’t use human medication since Kitty may find a way to lick and ingest it.
Click here to see this cat cone on Amazon.
Once everything is back to normal, periodically check Kitty’s backside to make sure there’s no problem. When his hair starts to grow out again, clip it short and keep it that way.
A few of Kitty’s favorite treats after the haircut will keep you in his good graces. His clean behind will keep him in yours.
A Tail-End Note on Feline Hygiene
In our journey through the intricacies of feline care, we've learned that a cat's hygiene extends beyond their glossy fur and shining eyes.
The issue of dirty cat butts may seem trivial at first, but it speaks volumes about our pets' overall health, diet, and comfort.
As cat guardians, it's essential to remain proactive, attentive, and compassionate, addressing even the tiniest concerns.
Remember, every aspect of Kitty's well-being matters, and our dedication ensures they lead a clean, happy, and dignified life.
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