11 Common Cat Behavior After Shaving

Let’s find out cat behavior after shaving and what you should do…

Shaving your cat can be a great way to keep your furry friend cool and comfortable during the summer months.

But what happens after the Clippers stop buzzing? Many cat owners are surprised to see changes in their cat’s behavior after a shave.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some common behaviors you may notice in your cat after a shave and offer tips for helping your cat adjust to their new look.

So grab a cup of coffee and settle in – it’s time to talk about cat behavior after shaving.

Cat Behavior After Shaving

The following are some of the most common cat behavior after shaving and how to handle each behavior:

1. Intolerance to Cold Surfaces

Due to diminished insulation, shaved cats may avoid chilly surfaces such as tiles or hardwood floors.

Provide soft, warm surfaces for them to rest on, such as blankets, cat beds, or padded mats, to address this.

You can also use rugs or carpets to cover cooler flooring sections and create warm paths around the house.

You may make them feel more at peace and avoid chilly surfaces by making their resting places warm and pleasant.

2. Loss of self-confidence

Some cats may feel self-conscious or lack confidence after having their fur shaved, especially if their look has changed dramatically.

Provide positive reinforcement and treat or praise them when they demonstrate daring or confident behavior to increase their confidence.

Engage them in play sessions with toys they appreciate to help them restore control and a sense of accomplishment.

Expose them to new settings or people gradually to help them restore their confidence over time.

3. Changes in litter box behavior

Shaving a cat’s litter box habit might cause accidents or avoidance.

Make sure you have a clean litter box with unscented litter, as strong scents may discourage cats from using it.

Put the litter box somewhere peaceful and accessible, away from noisy or high-traffic areas.

Reintroduce your cat to the litter box gradually by gently placing it inside and encouraging them to use it.

When they use the litter box correctly, give them positive reinforcement, such as food or praise. Most cats will rebuild their litter box routines with time and patience.

4. Decreased appetite or reluctance to eat

Due to stress or changes in their routine, cats may have a diminished appetite or be unwilling to eat after shaving.

Offer very delicious and aromatic dishes to urge them to eat. Warming the dish slightly can improve its aroma and appeal to them.

To stimulate their interest in food and foster their natural hunting instincts, consider utilizing puzzle feeders or interactive feeding toys.

5. Startle Responses

Cats may become more easily frightened after having their fur shaved since their fur helps to muffle surrounding sounds.

Create a peaceful and tranquil environment at home to assist them in adjusting.

Introduce new stimuli and experiences gradually to allow children to develop acclimated to their surroundings.

To help lessen their startle response, offer calm reassurance, soothing tones of voice, and moderate movements.

To encourage a sense of calm and security, you can also employ pheromone diffusers or sprays that replicate natural feline facial pheromones.

6. Itching or Scratching

Itching may occur in shaved cats as the hair grows back. This is a natural component of the healing process.

Check for symptoms of skin irritation, redness, or excessive scratching on a regular basis.

Consult a veterinarian if you detect recurrent itching or if the cat’s skin appears inflamed.

They can examine the issue and make recommendations for suitable treatment, such as calming shampoos, hypoallergenic grooming products, or oral drugs to relieve any discomfort.

7. Increased Vocalization

Cats may meow more frequently after having their fur shaved, maybe due to discomfort or a desire for attention.

Maintain their basic needs, like regular feeding, a clean litter box, and fresh water.

To keep children mentally busy, engage in interactive play sessions, and give environmental enrichment.

Spend quality time with them, giving them your undivided attention, tenderness, and reassurance, which can help prevent excessive vocalization.

Consult a veterinarian if the excessive meowing persists or is accompanied by signs of distress to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

8. Sun Sensitivity

Shaved cats are more prone to sunburn and hyperthermia, particularly if they spend time outside.

Apply a pet-safe sunscreen particularly made for cats to regions prone to sunburn, such as the ears, nose, and any other exposed skin, to protect their exposed skin.

Provide shaded areas or consider utilizing cat-specific protective apparel, such as lightweight shirts or jackets, when they go outside.

9. Hiding or seeking shelter

Because shaved cats have less fur protection, they may feel insecure. They may seek out hiding places more frequently to feel safe.

Provide safe hiding places, such as covered beds, boxes, or even dedicated cat caves, to address this habit.

These hiding places provide a sense of security and aid in their gradual adjustment to their new appearance.

Additionally, return them to the shaved regions gradually by gently patting and soothing them, allowing them to become more comfortable over time.

Learn more about trauma in cats.

10. Excessive grooming or licking

Shaving can disturb a cat’s natural grooming regimen, prompting them to compensate by licking themselves excessively.

This activity might cause skin irritation or hairball production.

To solve this, give a warm and comforting environment for your cat to relax in.

Distract them from excessive grooming by engaging them in interactive play with toys.

In addition, provide them with lots of mental and physical stimulation to keep them active and prevent boredom.

11. Behavioral Changes

Some cats may demonstrate transient behavioral changes after having their fur shaved. They may feel irritable, agitated, or withdrawn.

During this adjustment time, it is critical to keep a steady schedule and provide reassurance.

Spend quality time with your cat, engage them in activities they enjoy, and lavish them with affection and positive reinforcement to help them feel safe and secure.

Consult a veterinarian for further evaluation and assistance if the behavioral changes persist or worsen.

Learn more about reducing excessive shedding in cats.

How to prepare a cat for shaving to avoid change in behavior

Preparing your cat for shaving can help reduce the likelihood of any negative behavioral changes after the grooming.

Here are some steps you can take to prepare your cat for shaving:

1. Get your cat used to being handled. Gradually start to handle your cat in areas where they will be shaved, such as the stomach, inner thighs, and armpits. Use gentle strokes and treats to get them used to being touched in these sensitive areas.
2. Schedule the grooming appointment at a time when your cat is relaxed, such as after they have eaten and rested. This can help reduce stress and anxiety during the grooming session.
3. Consider using a calming aid or medication before the grooming appointment to help your cat stay calm and relaxed.
4. Make sure your cat is clean and free from mats and tangles before the grooming session. This can help reduce the amount of time required for the shaving and make the process more comfortable for your cat.
5. During the grooming session, make sure your cat is comfortable and secure. You can hold them or use a grooming sling or restraint to prevent them from moving around too much.

Following these tips can help to make the shaving process less stressful for your cat, reducing the likelihood of any negative behavioral changes afterwards.

It’s also important to provide your cat with plenty of positive reinforcement and treats during and after the grooming session to help them associate the experience with positive feelings.

Learn more about depression in cats.

Tips for helping a shaved cat adjust

Here are some common tips for helping a shaved cat adjust after shaving:

1. Keep your cat warm: Shaving can make your cat feel cold and frightened, so it’s essential to keep them warm after shaving.
2. Provide comfortable bedding: A comfortable, warm, and soft bed can help your cat feel more comfortable and relaxed.
3. Brush the cat’s hair regularly: Brushing your cat’s hair regularly can help it grow back more quickly and evenly after shaving. It can also help to prevent the matting and tangling of the fur.
4. Provide extra attention and affection: Extra attention and cuddles can help to comfort your cat and make them feel safe and loved after a stressful experience like shaving.
5. Offer a special treat: Treating your cat to their favorite food or treat can help to lift their spirits and make them feel happy.
6. Keep your cat indoors: After shaving, your cat’s skin will be more sensitive and vulnerable to sunburn and insect bites. Keep them indoors to protect them from outdoor elements.
7. Avoid using harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals on your cat’s skin, such as flea treatments, shampoos, or deodorants. These can irritate the skin and cause discomfort.
8. Keep your cat hydrated: Provide your cat with plenty of fresh water to help flush out any toxins from their body.
9. Monitor your cat’s behavior: After shaving, your cat may feel more anxious and restless than usual. Keep an eye on their behavior, and contact your veterinarian if you notice any significant changes.

Learn more about the causes of shedding in cats.

Related questions

Why would someone want to shave their cat?

Some pet owners choose to shave their cats for a variety of reasons, such as to manage to shed, to keep their cat cooler in hot weather, or to prevent matting and tangles in their cat’s fur. However, it’s important to note that not all cats need to be shaved, and it can be stressful for some cats.

Will shaving a cat change its behavior?

Shaving a cat is unlikely to have a significant impact on their behavior, aside from potentially making them more comfortable in hot weather. However, some cats may be stressed by the process of being shaved, so it’s important to introduce the idea gradually and provide plenty of positive reinforcement.

How will my cat behave immediately after being shaved?

After being shaved, some cats may seem more agitated, nervous, or itchy than usual. They may also be more sensitive to changes in temperature, so you may notice them seeking out warm or cool spots to rest.

Will my cat’s personality or mood change after being shaved?

There’s no reason to believe that shaving a cat will change the cat’s personality or mood in any significant way. However, it’s always important to monitor your cat closely after any major changes to the cat’s routine or appearance and seek veterinary care if you notice any concerning behaviors or symptoms.

How can I help my cat adjust to being shaved?

To help your cat adjust to being shaved, try to make the experience as positive and stress-free as possible. Provide plenty of treats, positive reinforcement, and soothing words and gestures. You may also want to consider providing a warm or cool place for your cat to rest, depending on the weather.

Are there any risks associated with shaving a cat?

While shaving a cat is generally considered safe, there are some risks to consider. For example, a poorly executed shave could lead to cuts, nicks, or other injuries to your cat’s skin. Additionally, some cats may be more prone to sunburn or other skin issues after being shaved, so it’s important to take steps to protect them from the sun and other environmental factors. Be sure to consult with a veterinarian and a professional groomer before deciding to shave your cat.

Learn more about shedding in long hair cats.

Conclusion

In conclusion, shaving your cat may seem like a good idea for those hot summer months, but it can have a negative impact on their behavior and well-being.

From increased anxiety to changes in their grooming habits, it’s important to consider the potential consequences before taking out the clippers.

Instead, try alternative methods such as brushing and trimming to keep your feline friend cool and comfortable. Your cat will thank you for it in the long run!