Pain in animals can result in decreased grooming behavior - especially cats. These animals may then develop matting of their haircoat and other skin lesions. Attempts to shave or brush these animals can prove difficult; dogs and cats may require sedatives or other interventions to facilitate a grooming process.
This question was submitted during Session I of The Arthritis Summit - a request for suggestions or tips for grooming painful dogs and cats with arthritis. Veterinary behavior expert Dr. Margaret Gruen and Dr. Marie Bartling - a veterinary pain management and physical rehabilitation practitioner - shared these suggestions:
Learn more about Pain and the Impacts on Behavior in Dogs and Cats.
