Lack of grooming

It may be due to when she was sick. I would just comb her several times a week. Maybe she will start washing again. I don't catch my short hair cats washing very often.

My daughter found Stanley, a dirty, but beautiful long haired cat.

But he never would wash. She would have to bathe him once a week. He would beome disgusting with the smell.

Finally ,last summer, they shaved him right down. And like a miracle, he began washing!

If your kitty is an indoor cat, you could try that. If it does not work, it's no loss, the hair will grow back and in the meantime your job will be easier.

Stan is the exception to the rule. They used electric trimmers on him, his belly, legs, everywhere. She sent me the video.

He just laid there on his back with his eyes closed!!

Unbelieveable!! Most docile cat I've ever seen. Will let complete strangers hold him on his back in their arms. Loves the vet.

Why can't they all be like that?

Good luck with your kitty. It may work itself out.

Haha I'm imagining your cat snuggling into the electric trimmer likes its one of those electric shoulder massagers.

No, you would not want to do this yourself. Cats have very delicate skin. If you decided to shave, it should be done by a professional groomer. Check references before using any groomer.

I bet you hit the nail on the head with the burr theory. She's so used to not being able to wash, she's given up.

Here's what I recommend: Get a little bucket and put some warm water in it. When she is relaxed dip her brush or comb in the bucket of warm water and brush her. Use little cat strokes, as if you were her mama and washing her with your tongue. Keep dipping and brushing until she's had enough, or you've done her all over, which ever comes first. Make sure you are in a warm spot, of course.

Do this all over, every few days. This is non invasive and may encourage her to groom herself, especially when she is damp. It will also become an incredible bonding time for the two of you.

If she is hesitant about accepting grooming start with her face and neck and slowly as the days pass try to get further over her little body.

This is how I took care of my Ootay when she got old and sick and could not keep up with washing all her long curly fur any more. She loved it so much, would get very excited when she saw me get her little white bucket out. She used to twist and turn to make sure I got every spot on her, so it was good exercise for her too.

Get some hair ball remedy though, because once she discovers she can wash herself without pain she may try to make up for lost time.