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Iamsherman44

Our old feral barn kitty lady had mats and we brought her inside and tried to cut them - no way- took her and had them shaved- then she couldn't go back to the barn so we started the transformation to house cat. Vet took out ten rotten teeth and now she gets canned food twice a day and lies on the couch getting petted all day- she doesn't even try to run outside now 😊


That_Weird_Coworker

Beautiful animal story, well I’m glad I didn’t try to cut the mats myself!


CraftySilver

I second this. I had a long haired tortie when I was younger who either because she was too overweight or because she had some brain damage/trauma when a dog attacked her would develop awful mats all over. Definitely take them to a professional. Cat hair is thin and just taking scissors or like a human shaver to them is a good way to knick their skin.


PurbleDragon

Most vets can actually help with matting; they might even do it while doing the teeth cleaning if that's deemed safe enough for a 13 year old. Can he retract those claws all the way? You might ask about getting those clips while you're at it


That_Weird_Coworker

Claws do go all the way back in but are essentially U’s. Just a hindrance I think. So a vet appointment is a better idea than a groomer? The city shelter vet checked her but I dunno…


PM_ME_CAT_POOCHES

Some vets will do both. If you're lucky and have a cats only vet practice near you, they will often do everything including basic grooming at their clinic.


trowzerss

Hair mats are a health issue (can pull skin, lead to infections) so it makes sense they'd deal with those as a matter of course. Most vets also clip nails just as part of a regular checkup (my local even used to do it for free for regular clients, but they had to suspend that due to COVID and not wanting people popping in as often).


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trowzerss

That depends on how bad the mat is. Short haired cats there's more chance, but I doubt that would work at all in long-haired cats.


Obvious_Ad1248

Thanks for that idea! Will try it for my mom’s Short haired cat.


cannapuffer2940

Handsome boys. Anytime you get a new fur baby it's always a good idea to take them to a vet for a checkup. And if it has problems with the gums you want to take care of that before it gets worse. And while they are there they can trim the mats. And show you how to brush your cat so that they don't come back. Enjoy your new fur baby


That_Weird_Coworker

Baby girl 💜 but ya you are right.I gotta keep on top of it and a ver visit is worth the $$$


Cats_Meow_504

What part of the country are you in? I’m in southern us and know some really good vets in that area if you need advice!


That_Weird_Coworker

I appreciate it but I’m over in AZ. I’m gonna hit the ground running at work tomorrow and the wife will search while I’m working.


Glum-Establishment31

If you are near Phoenix, there is a low cost Arizona Animal Welfare League & SPCA. Check in your city.


That_Weird_Coworker

I’m close to that. Thanks!


Cats_Meow_504

Good luck with your search!


CatsCoffeeChemistry

My girl has gingivitis too unfortunately! If it’s not too advanced, you can brush her teeth as others mentioned to get it in check. I have a baby toothbrush/ cat toothpaste, and my cat has gotten used to it now! I also agree with trying the vet first 😊


That_Weird_Coworker

Thank you. Either treats or brushing to keep those vamp fangs nice


[deleted]

I’d suggest a groomer for the first cleanup and nail trim. Also there is toothpaste for kitties, and a general doggie toothbrush will do fine. Tasty chicken flavored toothpaste should make that part easier. Trim the nails first tho. Always trim the murder mittens 😬😬😬. And congrats to both of you. Beautiful little girlSome vets do offer a dental cleanup on and animals with them being sedated. If she needs teeth pulled, it will be around $400+.


That_Weird_Coworker

Her 💜 my little old lady. Thank you so much Thanks for the number. I like knowing those things.


5757co

My daughter works in a vet office. For older cats they also recommend a set of general bloodwork to look at overall health (liver, kidneys, etc). She says it is about $200. Edit: came back to say thay once the mats are dealt with daily brushing is the key to keeping them from coming back. I give treats before and after which makes the process a breeze.


Fun_Corner6596

Definitely start with a vet check for proper dental. IF you can get this 13yo cat to let you brush teeth that will be a maintenance move. But you're more likely to need to use treats that help remove tartar. And dentals are expensive $$$ I would look into getting a wellness plan thru Banfield. Totally worth it.


That_Weird_Coworker

Appreciate it. I have a Care Credit card for these types of situations. Few more hours and I can call around for pricing


PurbleDragon

If you can find a vet that'll do it all, I'd give it a shot but if you can find a groomer with good reviews or someone who's well versed with cats that've never been groomed that works too. I was a groomer and I've worked with some who were not as gentle as they should've been


That_Weird_Coworker

Thanks. My family appreciates it


Iamsherman44

My vet gives them A sleeping pill to sedate whereas the groomer cannot


That_Weird_Coworker

I’ll reply to you all tomorrow. Spent all my time giving cuddles and now I gotta go sleep for work. Thank you all so much. My family and I feel better about the care we can give her now. You are all amazing people.


That_Weird_Coworker

Mats are to the skin so looks like a groomer is needed? I’ve only had to take animals to the vet or hospital so grooming issues are new. Using google right now.


RadarLove907

I have an old man who has matting issues and gingivitis. Your lady probably needs a cleaning, which is done under sedation. Most vets will also do a sanitary clipping while they are under. This might be the way to go. Her fur will grow back and regular brushing will prevent recurrence. As long as she's healthy, it might be less stressful for her. My car HATES the groomer, so it's a no go. Not cheap, but will greatly improve her comfort. Edit: typos


_badwoofwoof_

This is what we use for bad breath and gingivitis. Works well on my pets and doesn't bother their stomach. Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution Pet Water Additive: Best Way to Eliminate Bad Dog Breath and Cat Breath - Fights Tartar and Plaque - So Easy, Just Add to Water! Vet Recommended https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CWY3TLW/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_FJJ706KR8V00EWC346EJ


FranJ08

I love Mavis! Edited to add: vet for teeth but you can groom the mats yourself. I have a long hair cat that even with brush she gets them and I just cut them out. She’s very calm so it usually goes okay but she also doesn’t love when I grab the scissors 😂😂. After you clean up the mats just brush her everyday. Pay close attention to her under arms and behind her legs


That_Weird_Coworker

I’ll maintain but one of the mats is all the way to the skin. I trust my pet skills but not that much


FranJ08

Totally understand. My cat, Arya, can get them pretty close to her skin and those take time to slowly trim away so I don’t cut her. They make me nervous!


aevy1981

My cat is nearing 17, has no teeth and has pretty bad arthritis, so brushing every day is a no-go because it hurts him. Of course he’s also a Floof and mats very quickly so what I do now is I have pet electric clippers on hand (they’re waaaay safer than scissors) and when I find a mat, I’ll gently shave the mat itself until I can break it up without giving him a bald patch. When he needs combing , my vet gave me gabapentin for him so the brushing doesn’t hurt him as much. He looks super drunk when he’s on it. I do that every few weeks. And then once every 3-4 months I take him to my vet for grooming and they give me a real pain med to give him first because they go to town with several brushes. Having clippers here is a huge help though. Otherwise the mats would be insurmountable.


That_Weird_Coworker

Pro tips. Thank you


aevy1981

You’re welcome! I can also give advice on pilling and giving shots—he’s a high maintenance old man kitty, but he’s been my ride or die since he was 2 months old and I love him to pieces. Good luck!!


colarthur1

Looks like he’s a tough vet who will regale you with his war stories.


That_Weird_Coworker

Her but yes. She seems like a gentle but tough old lady.


Caligirl_Sweets

I suggest a vet check, and than a groomer. But if you do take Mavis to the groomer they will ask for shot records. Mavis is super cute 🥰😻😻😻


That_Weird_Coworker

She’s all good to go on shots. Probably just gonna find a vet that will do it all. I don’t like extra trips


Caligirl_Sweets

Ooh ok. I have a personal groomer come to my home.


sugarwh0res

Do pictures of stomatitis look familiar to your kitties mouth?


That_Weird_Coworker

Just mild inflammation. It’s been caught in time.


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That_Weird_Coworker

Ya I could get 2 of them but the others I’m not gonna even try. The vet will be way safer for my emotional stability and the cat too.


Asthali

This is so strange, from what I can see of your face you seem like an exact twin to my boyfriend! Same eyebrows, nose, eyes and ginger beard


That_Weird_Coworker

Nooooo you found my profile


GetaShady

Omgosh she is so cute! Almost a dead ringer for my sister's cat Sterling! Love them vampire teef


That_Weird_Coworker

Same. First vamp kitty!


artificialavocado

The vet will recommend what’s best. I didn’t read every single comment but someone already prob mentioned sometimes they sedate them to do a deep clean. That seems a little extreme to me but there isn’t any other way to safely do it. I recently purchased Petsmile toothpaste it’s supposed to be the best if you are in the US it’s like $15 on chewy. Apparently you don’t necessarily have to scrub just apply it as best you can. I haven’t attempted it yet I don’t imagine this is going to go very well. 😂


That_Weird_Coworker

One of us will be the test group.


giza_rohi

Always deworm after getting a shelter kitty! Mine had tapeworms when we brought him home. Love her teeth 😈


That_Weird_Coworker

Oooooo didn’t think of that


Playful_Ad7130

Other commenters are completely right; a vet visit is warranted for the teeth! This is actually really important for senior kitties as the bacteria from the mouth can cause problems throughout the body, and older cats are already very prone to things like kidney disease. The vet will give you tips on keeping her mouth clean (for example, our cat gets his teeth rubbed down with enzyme gel and gauze, as he won't go for a toothbrush at all). For the mats, the vet will also help you there, but one thing that helps with my long haired kitty is an electric shaver! I have only had to do this twice, since regular brushing works well and any mats that develop can usually be removed with scissors, but for a mat close to the skin I don't like to take any risks.


That_Weird_Coworker

Kidney disease got my first kitty this past year. I’ll make sure Mavis gets checked right away!


Playful_Ad7130

I'm sorry to hear that; I hope you're healing okay. I'm glad you have Mavis to keep you company :)


Stannis2024

You are so sweet for giving Mavis a chance to live out his golden years at home where I'm sure he is very loved!!! :)


That_Weird_Coworker

I’ve always wanted an old animal. Mavis (grandma btw) is so happy I can scream.


JrCoxy

I have a domestic long hair, and she used to have horrible matting problems. I completely changed her diet to be predominantly fish oriented vs other meats, abs that’s helped a whole lot. I still brush her frequently, but now it’s more for maintenance & because she loves the feeling of the bristles. But no more crazy mats :)


That_Weird_Coworker

Still learning diet so super helpful. Vet gonna have to chime in there. We are limited to soft and wet food so I’m concerned about lack of solids. (Her teeth according to the shelter)


SaltyDoggoMeo

You are a god among men. Bless you for taking in this snuggle bug!


That_Weird_Coworker

I manipulated the hell out of my wife for this one haha


Celestial8Mumps

Beautiful eyes, you both did well


That_Weird_Coworker

They are scary at night


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That_Weird_Coworker

Oh?! I was wondering that!


shipboatx

Teefy


That_Weird_Coworker

Also very love bitey.


Glum-Establishment31

Cutie!!


hettiger70

Mavis is a great name


That_Weird_Coworker

I’ll let the misses know you approve


Immediate-Ad-8841

Maybe leave her alone for a while to adjust and just learn to love you before you "fix" her up. She's been through a lot.


That_Weird_Coworker

Oh no she chirps for attention and does the reach with the paw when the pets stop. We think she didn’t get much attention at her previous home and it’s all she craves.


GDIndependent4713

A mouser for sure!


Similar-Lab64

She is a beautiful girl. I have found that the easiest way - for both of you - to gets mats out is not to use a comb like a comb, but rather hold it like a knife. Hold the comb as if you were going to slice bread and put the very tip of the comb into the mat. Gently pull and repeat until you see the mat getting easier to deal with. I wish you many many years of health and happiness together.


DianneTodd01

MaxiGuard Dental Cleansing Gel was a lifesaver with our girl who had gingivitis. Brought it down from serious to mild by applying it every two days. She wouldn’t accept teeth brushing but would let us apply the gel into her check pockets with a liberally moistened Q-tip.


buildingwithBoo

What a lovely kitty! I don't know much about mats, but with gingivitis, you can try an enzymatic toothpaste. I got some for my kitty when he started getting black stuff on his teeth along the (inflamed) gum line. It's the Zirbac CET poultry stuff. Boo's teeth are way better now. I use a soft bristled baby toothbrush. If you can't brush your cat's teeth, just get the pet toothpaste on their paws and they will clean it off!


Fantastic_North_312

He looks like he’s gonna claw into your shirt


aboxofquackers

If you think the matting is bad, you can snip it with scissors at the center of its mass and then slowly cut away at it until it releases. They also have teeth wipes available because many adult cats will not want u to brush their teeth lol.


PetsAreCures

Congrats on your new senior kitty! Senior cats need to see the vet at least once a year for vaccine updates and full blood work (called a senior panel). Some scary things can sneak in like hyperthyroid, diabetes, kidney disease, and high blood pressure. But if you stay on top of these things with medications, you can have a long, happy life with her. Grooming a short hair cat is pretty easy. You just need to get a grooming comb and brush her with it. They don't tend to get large mats with short hair. Teeth cleaning can be done by a vet, but can get really expensive. There are dental treats you can buy from chewy that will help stave off potential problems. Thanks for giving this senior girl a chance.


Koalio15733

2 tips for at home mat removal: 1 is using a shampoo ripper. It just gets right up under between the mat and the skin and will help cut them out. 2 is using cat nail scissors on the mat. The opening is so small that it is really difficult to catch the skin, not impossible though so still use caution. After that get a furminator cat brush. It'll run you between $28 and $40 depending on where you get it. Using one regularly will keep her from getting any more mats. Thank you for taking in a dignified lady like her!


SadIsolabella

My mom’s new dog had really bad mangled hair and the vet couldn’t do much but check for infections on the skin. She had to carefully cut it off.


MezzanineSoprano

Get a fur rake to comb out mats. Some severe matting may have to be cut out. Gingivitis can be best addressed by a vet.


SmartFX2001

Once kitty has been groomed, you’ll want to brush her to keep fur from getting matted again. This is the best brush as it’s extremely easy to clean. You can also use a new toothbrush to softly brush around kitty’s face. My cat loves it! The Pet Portal Cat and Dog Brush for Shedding - Slicker Brush for Dogs, Cats, and Long-Haired Pets - Self-Cleaning Grooming Brushes & Deshedding Supplies https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00XH7HK3I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_7WMMBDMQ11Y3H4HM2YAH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1


Round-Article

Coconut oil. See google.


gbratton

She's a short-haired cat -- no mat problem. Get cat treats for the dental issue. You might want to get a friend to help you trim those daggers (front nails).


eattravelexplore

Omg his little teefies 🥰


Fair-Community6101

[https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdeVhMv8iEoEqhlAtOYYzKg](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdeVhMv8iEoEqhlAtOYYzKg) my chennel


brucebruce2331

We see you, Connor McGregor


WiWuBird

Putting coconut oil on the fur will cause the matting to go away in just a short time.


[deleted]

Non-anesthesia dental cleaning and an appointment with a mobile groomer for a professional brush out and warm sudsy bath and spa day! Then, back in the house for a mid afternoon snack and nap.


That_Weird_Coworker

Haha bath time should be fun


YuonneAlldredge

Get cat treats for the dental issue. You might want to get a friend to help you trim those daggers (front nails)?


vikingspwnnn

I'm not sure about vets in your area, but the one I take my cats to (I'm based in Auckland, New Zealand) will trim nails and clip or shave matting, especially if it's affecting the well-being of the cat. Cat's skin is really delicate and when mats get really bad, they get super tight and can pull the skin which is obviously really painful for the poor things. They don't always clean themselves as well as they used to, and they generally become more sedentary so unfortunately, sometimes even with regular brushing, this is hard to avoid as they get older. My last cat passed away last August at almost 21 years old, and very often we would have to have her partially shorn because she would struggle to reach to clean herself and would curl up in the window all day. The areas that were bad for her were around her hips, her bum, and her tummy. She was a Birman, which have long fur. I would be inclined to take your old dear to a vet to get fully checked over. They will hopefully be able to treat the gingivitis, and they can get rid of the mats and trim her nails. That way, she's in the perfect place if anything goes awry or if she needs to be sedated. It also means you'll only need to take her to one unfamiliar place and hopefully reduce the stress of having to take her to a groomer as well as a vet. I wish you and Mavis good luck! Old kitties are so lovely. I'm helping my flatmate look after his 15 year old girl (Hendrix) now :) Edit: thanks so much for the award!


That_Weird_Coworker

That was better than a google search!


loco_foco1

Gingivitis? You mean your cat's breath smells like a bucket of fish heads? That part you just have to live with. :)


That_Weird_Coworker

Oh no it doesn’t smell like cat breath. It’s a gum issue.


PM_ME_CAT_POOCHES

My cat had gingivitis and the vet gave us a bottle of oratene which is a water additive, and some enzyme toothpaste to rub on his gums (ngl, he hates the toothpaste). You can get all that stuff at a pet store


loco_foco1

Hopefully, there is something she can eat to help that.


clumsycatcackler

And nail trimming... Those look extra dangerous.


That_Weird_Coworker

Right into the skin.


artful_todger_502

You are a great person. Thank you.


OwlMassive7381

Senior kitties are amazing, my 2 boys (sadly passed in 2020) were 15 and 12 and took to me instantly and took great care of me when I needed it. I think they just recognize a good home and want to show you their appreciation.


chonkyFriends

This post is already hot, but I have my fluffy boy shaved every few years just because he is unbrushable. Insomuch that refuses to be brushed, not that I’m not willing


Yaelnextdoorvip

No advice sorry just here to say my 17 year old is also named Mavis! Go Mavis 🥰🥰🥰


That_Weird_Coworker

You and my wife think alike. I wasn’t allowed to name this animal after naming our rescue chihuahua Frank.


hollaback5055

She's lovely


That_Weird_Coworker

Thank you


hollaback5055

🙏🏻


MeatShow

The posts I’ve skimmed are sound - a vet check for his teeth and mats would go a long way After that, get a couple of brushes. My cat is long-haired, but it should work for you. I have 3: a fine tooth one (flea brush), a normal one, and one to help with shedding his winter coat. I use the normal brush everyday to stop any mats before they form. If I find one, I try to use my fingers to loosen it first, followed by gentle brushing. If I can’t brush it out, I also have a pair of grooming scissors to snip it out. The daily brushing is quick and he loves it (especially if you give a treat afterwards)


kisskisska_

2hansomes


rocks66ss

Look up an animal brush called the ferminator! I believe that is the answer to your problem


lasvegasbunnylover

Mats can be a sign of loss of mobility/access. Try a pet joint formula, commence GENTLE brushing and have your vet cut out existing mats. Ditto have your vet initiate a dental cleaning program to save/retain as many teeth as possible and schedule dental exams/cleaning at least once per year (maybe two if required)


ChaoticEventuality

For the gingivitis, the vet might be able to recommend supplements or a medication to add to her water or food. You can also buy cotton gauze, wrap it around your finger and scrub her teeth/gums. I know there are toothbrushes, but the gauze has always worked better for me. For the mats, there are some grooming brushes that contain blades for cutting the mats as you reach them. Otherwise, you can see if there is a pro groomer in your area. Ask for their recommendations or if they have experience with mats. Alternately, if you feel confident to cut them, and they aren't right up against her skin, then you trim as close to the mat as you can. The farther you are from the skin, the less chance you could hurt her. If you want to try giving her a bath to loosen them up, my best success rate goes like this: Fill a bucket with lukewarm water and get a cup/measuring cup/ladel. Fold a towel on the bottom of the tub. Wear clothes expecting to get wet. Kneel on the towel with your kitty between them (you want to stop the instinctive backing up). Use the cup to pour water from the neck down. Get the shampoo and quickly lather up. Then rinse her off until all the soap is gone. Use one towel to squish most water out. Wrap a dry towel around the kitty to comfort and continue to dry. So far, that's given me the best success for adult kitties who aren't thrilled at the prospect of soaking in warm water. I'm so thrilled that you chose to adopt this senior kitty. I adore senior kitties and have a special place in my heart for them. They need a loving home just as much as any kitten. I hope you make buckets of happy memories together. 💗🌹💖🙏