Generally, cats are very good at grooming themselves. Grooming, though, isn’t the only factor that affects a cat’s coat. If your feline friend’s fur is looking a little dull these days, consider these factors as a possible cause. Your Ludington veterinarian outlines them below.

Diet

Poor nutrition is perhaps the number-one reason cats’ coats lose their luster. Your cat needs a balanced diet with the right proportions of carbs, fats, and protein. A high quality cat food contains these as well as important vitamins and minerals to keep all parts of your cat in good health. Ask your Ludington vet for a recommendation on good food if you think kitty’s nutritional deficiencies might be behind his dull coat.

Age

The older cats get, the less flexible they become, especially if arthritis sets in. If your cat can’t reach areas on his body he used to be able to, grooming may suffer. His coat might be dull and unkempt simply because he can’t reach back there anymore. Your Ludington veterinarian can tell you how to assist your cat if he’s entering his senior years.

Weight

A fat cat may not be able to reach areas on his body that he once could. You’ll need to implement a diet change and exercise plan to get kitty’s weight under control—talk to your Ludington vet for advice.

Too Much Bathing

If we are overzealous with bathing our cats, it could be counterproductive. Too much bathing removes essential skin oils that keep your cat’s coat shiny.

Medical Issues

Of course, more serious medical conditions can also lead to poor-quality coats. If none of the above factors seem to be causing your cat’s lackluster appearance, take him to your Ludington veterinarian as soon as possible—diabetes, allergies, infections, parasites, or other serious health concerns could be to blame for your cat’s dull fur.