Cats with Undercoats – Signs of Undercoats & Grooming Tips

Cats are known for their thick fur coats, which provide insulation and protection from the elements. However, did you know that most cats also have a second layer of fur, known as the undercoat?

This inner layer is usually much finer and softer than the outer coat, and it helps to keep your cat warm in cold weather. While all cats have an undercoat, some may lose theirs due to illness or age!

Cats with undercoats require special care when it comes to grooming. The undercoat can become matted and tangled, which not only looks uncomfortable, but can also lead to skin irritation. Matted fur can also trap dirt and moisture, which can lead to infections.

In this article, I’ll dive you into everything you need to know about cats with undercoats – from what they are, to how to take care of them! Keep reading to learn more…

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What are Cats with Undercoats?

Undercoats are actually two layers of fur: the topcoat, which is composed of longer, rougher hairs; and the undercoat, made up of soft, fine hairs. The undercoat helps protect against both heat and cold, and also provides insulation against shocks. Many cats shed their undercoats seasonally, although some may shed year-round.

While all cats have an undercoat, some have more prominent undercoats than others. Breeds that are known for having thick undercoats include the Maine Coon, Norwegian Forest Cat, Siberian Husky, and American Shorthair.

However, it’s not just purebred cats that can have thick undercoats. Mixed-breed cats may also have prominent undercoats, particularly if they have any of the aforementioned breeds in their lineage.

Signs Your Cat May Have an Undercoat

A normal, healthy cat has a three-layer coat consisting of guard hairs, a dense undercoat, and a fine downy layer next to the skin. While all cats have some undercoat, certain breeds (like Persians and Maine Coons) are more prone to having thick, luxurious undercoats.

An undercoat helps protect a cat from extremes in temperature and can serve as insulation to help keep her warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It also provides some physical protection against things like bites and scratches.

Cats typically shed their undercoats twice a year, in the spring and fall. However, some cats shed year-round to a greater or lesser degree. If you suspect that your cat may have an overabundance of undercoat, look for these signs:

1. Mats and Tangles in Her Fur

As a Persian cat owner I am very familiar with the process of de-tangling mats! If your cat has an undercoat, she’s likely to develop mats and tangles, especially in her back end where her fur is the thickest.

Mats are not only unsightly, but they can also be painful for your cat. They can pull on the skin and cause irritation, redness, and even bald spots. In severe cases, mats can lead to skin infections.

If you find mats in your cat’s fur, try to gently de-tangle them with a comb. If the mat is too tight or close to the skin, you may need to have it clipped by a professional groomer.

2. Excessive Shedding

Cats typically shed their fur once or twice a year, in the spring and fall. However, if your cat has an undercoat, she may shed year-round to a greater or lesser degree.

You may notice that your cat is leaving tufts of fur all over your house, or that her fur seems to be coming out in clumps when you brush her. If your cat is shedding excessively, it’s a good idea to have her checked out by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

3. Hot Spots

Hot spots are another sign that your cat may be shedding excessively. Hot spots are raw, red, irritated patches of skin that can be caused by allergies, infections, or even boredom.

If your cat has hot spots, she’ll likely be scratching or licking the affected areas obsessively. This can make the hot spots worse, so it’s important to take your cat to the vet as soon as possible for treatment.

4. Dull, Dry Fur

If your cat’s fur is looking dull and dry, it could be a sign of an undercoat problem. When cats shed their undercoats excessively, it can strip away the natural oils in their fur, leaving it dry and lifeless.

You may also notice that your cat’s fur is starting to break or fray. This is especially common in long-haired cats with thick undercoats.

5. Dandruff

Dandruff is another sign of an undercoat issue. When cats shed their undercoats excessively, they can develop dandruff, which are small, white flakes of skin that end up all over their fur.

If you think your cat may have dandruff, take a close look at her fur. If you see small white flakes, it’s likely dandruff. You can also try running a comb through her fur to see if any flakes come off on the comb.

Benefits of an Undercoat

While an undercoat can be a bit of a hassle to deal with, it does have some benefits. Here I’ll touch on a few of the benefits an undercoat can provide:

1. Protection from the Elements

I’ll love to share one of my experience when it comes to the physical protection an undercoat can provide. Recently, my cat got into a scrap with another cat and ended up with a few scratches on her back. I was happy to see that her undercoat had protected her from more serious injury!

2. Improved Joint Health

Cats with thick undercoats are less likely to develop joint problems later in life. That’s because the extra fur helps cushion their joints and absorb shock, reducing wear and tear on the joints.

3. Enhanced Senses

An undercoat can also help a cat to better sense her surroundings. The extra fur acts like a “sixth sense”, allowing her to feel vibrations and movement that she might otherwise miss. This can be helpful for hunting and avoiding predators.

4. Better Social Status

In the wild, cats with thicker undercoats are often seen as being more fit and dominant than those with thinner coats. This social status is reflected in the hierarchy of feral cat colonies, where cats with thicker undercoats are typically at the top of the pecking order.

While your indoor cat may not have to worry about social status, having a thick undercoat can still be seen as a sign of good health and vitality.

5. Increased Beauty

Let’s face it, cats with thick, luxurious undercoats are just plain gorgeous! Whether you’re looking at a fluffy Maine Coon or a sleek Siberian, it’s hard to deny that cats with undercoats are some of the most beautiful creatures on earth.

Layers of A Cat’s Coat

Now that I’ve discussed the benefits of an undercoat, let’s take a closer look at the layers of a cat’s coat.

A cat’s coat is made up of three main layers: the guard hairs, the awn hairs, and the downy undercoat.

1. The Guard Hairs

Guard hairs are the longest and stiffest hairs in a cat’s coat. They make up the outermost layer of the coat and help protect the other layers from damage.

Guard hairs are also responsible for much of a cat’s coloration. For example, a black cat will have black guard hairs, while a calico cat will have black, white, and orange guard hairs.

2. The Awn Hairs

Awn hairs are shorter than guard hairs but longer than undercoat hairs. They make up the middle layer of the coat and help protect the undercoat from dirt and debris.

Awn hairs are also responsible for much of a cat’s patterning. For example, a tabby cat will have striped awn hairs, while a tortoiseshell cat will have patched awn hairs.

3. The Downy Undercoat

The downy undercoat is the softest and most dense layer of fur. It’s made up of short, fine hairs that grow close together.

This one layer is what gives cats with undercoats their characteristic fluffiness. It also provides the majority of the insulation and protection from the elements.

Difference Between Undercoat Removal and Deshedding

Undercoat removal and deshedding are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to two different things.

Undercoat removal is the process of physically removing the undercoat from a cat’s body. This can be done with a comb, brush, or even your fingers.

Deshedding, on the other hand, is the process of loosening and removing the dead hair from a cat’s coat. This can be done a deshedding tool, such as a Furminator.

Both under removal and deshedding are important for maintaining a healthy coat, but they serve different purposes. Undercoat removal is necessary for getting rid of the dead hair, while deshedding is necessary for preventing mats and tangles.

Why You Should Remove Your Cat’s Undercoat?

Now that you know all about undercoats, you may be wondering why you should bother removing your cat’s undercoat in the first place. After all, it’s not like she’s going to be running around in the snow or swimming in cold water.

There are actually a few good reasons to remove your cat’s undercoat, even if she’s an indoor cat.

1. It Reduces Shedding

One of the main benefits of removing a cat’s undercoat is that it reduces shedding. When you remove the dead hair from the undercoat, it prevents it from being loose and falling out all over your house.

2. It Reduces Mats and Tangles

Another benefit of removing a cat’s undercoat is that it helps reduce mats and tangles. Mats and tangles are more likely to form when there’s a lot of loose hair, so by removing the undercoat, you can help prevent them from forming in the first place.

3. It Helps Keep Your Cat Cool

Another reason to remove your cat’s undercoat is that it can help keep her cool in the summer months. A thick undercoat can actually make it harder for a cat to regulate her body temperature, so by removing it, you can help her stay cool and comfortable during the hot summer months.

4. It Reduces Allergies

If you or someone in your family is allergic to cats, removing the undercoat can actually help reduce the symptoms. That’s because the majority of the allergens in a cat’s fur are actually found in the undercoat, so by removing it, you can help reduce the amount of allergens in your home.

5. It Makes Grooming easier

Finally, another reason to remove your cat’s undercoat is that it makes grooming easier. When you remove the undercoat, it gives you better access to the skin, which makes it easier to brush and comb your cat.

How to Remove Your Cat’s Undercoat?

Now that you know all about the benefits of removing a cat’s undercoat, you may be wondering how to actually go about doing it.

1. Use a Comb (or Your Fingers)

One of the easiest ways to remove a cat’s undercoat is to use a comb. Look for a comb that has wide teeth and is specifically designed for cats. Start by combing the hair in the direction it grows and work your way down the body.

If you don’t have a comb, you can also use your fingers to remove the undercoat. Just be careful not to pull too hard, as you could hurt your cat.

2. Use a Brush

Another option for removing a cat’s undercoat is to use a brush. Look for a brush that has stiff bristles and is specifically designed for cats. Start at the top of the head and work your way down the body, using short, gentle strokes.

3. Use a Deshedding Tool

If you want to make the process of removing your cat’s undercoat as easy as possible, you can use a deshedding tool, such as a Furminator. These tools have special blades that quickly and easily remove the undercoat. Just be careful not to press too hard or you could hurt your cat.

4. Give Your Cat a Bath

If your cat will tolerate it, you can also remove her undercoat by giving her a bath. Start by wetting down your cat’s fur and then apply a small amount of shampoo specifically designed for cats.

Work the shampoo into her fur and then rinse it out thoroughly. You may need to use a comb or brush to help remove the undercoat while your cat is still wet.

5. Take Your Cat to the Groomer

Finally, if you really don’t want to deal with removing your cat’s undercoat yourself, you can always take her to the groomer. They will be able to quickly and easily remove the undercoat for you.

Cat Grooming Tips

As a cat parent, it’s important to groom your cat on a regular basis. Not only does this help keep her looking and feeling her best, but it also helps reduce shedding, mats, and tangles.

1. Brush Your Cat Regularly

One of the best ways to keep your cat’s coat healthy and free of tangles is to brush her regularly. Look for a brush that has stiff bristles and is specifically designed for cats. Start at the top of the head and work your way down the body, using short, gentle strokes.

2. Comb Your Cat’s Fur

In addition to brushing, you should also comb your cat’s fur on a regular basis. This will help remove any dead hair, mats, or tangles. Look for a comb that has wide teeth and is specifically designed for cats. Start by combing the hair in the direction it grows and work your way down the body.

3. Give Your Cat a Bath

If your cat will tolerate it, you can also give her a bath on a regular basis. This will help remove any dirt, debris, or dead hair from her fur. Start by wetting down your cat’s fur and then apply a small amount of shampoo specifically designed for cats.

Work the shampoo into her fur and then rinse it out thoroughly. You may need to use a comb or brush to help remove any tangles while your cat is still wet.

4. Trim Your Cat’s Nails

It’s also important to trim your cat’s nails on a regular basis. If you don’t, her nails can get too long and start to curl under, which can be painful for her. Use a nail trimmer specifically designed for cats and only cut the tip of the nail.

5. Check Your Cat’s Ears

Finally, don’t forget to check your cat’s ears on a regular basis. Her ears should be clean and free of any wax or debris. If you notice any redness, swelling, or discharge, take her to the vet right away.

How Often Should You Groom Your Cat?

How often you need to groom your cat depends on a few factors, such as her coat type, age, and activity level. For example, if your cat has a long, thick coat, she will need to be brushed more often than a cat with a short, thin coat.

Likewise, if your cat is a senior or has a health condition that affects her coat, she may need to be groomed more often. As a general rule of thumb, you should brush or comb your cat’s fur at least once a week and give her a bath every month or so.

How Often Should You Bath Your Cat?

For most cats, bathing is an occasional necessity at best and an unpleasant experience at worst. How often a cat needs a bath depends on several factors, including his coat type, lifestyle, and general health.

For example, short-haired cats who live exclusively indoors are much less likely to need baths than long-haired cats who go outdoors frequently. That said, all cats benefit from occasional bathing to remove dirt, dander, and other allergens that can trigger asthma and other respiratory problems.

In general, I recommend bathing indoor cats every two to four weeks and outdoor cats every week or two. If your cat has a medical condition that requires more frequent bathing, your veterinarian can provide guidance on the best frequency and method for keeping your cat clean without causing him undue stress.

What are the Best Cat Shampoos?

When it comes to choosing a shampoo for your cat, it’s important to select one that is specifically designed for cats. These shampoos are usually milder and less irritating than dog shampoos.

Some of the best cat shampoos on the market include:

Furminator deShedding Shampoo
Pet Head Dirty Talk Degreasing Shampoo

TropiClean Papaya and Coconut Pet Shampoo
Earthbath All Natural Pet Shampoo

Can You Use Human Shampoo on a Cat?

You love your shampoo and conditioner because they make your hair look and smell great. So, it makes sense that you might want to use them on your cat, right?

Unfortunately, shampoos and conditioners designed for humans can actually do more harm than good when used on cats. For one thing, they often contain fragrances and other ingredients that can irritate a cat’s sensitive skin.

In addition, they may not be able to effectively remove the oils and debris that can build up on a cat’s coat.

As a result, it’s best to stick with shampoos and conditioners that are specifically designed for use on cats. Not only will they be gentle on your cat’s skin, but they’ll also help to keep her coat looking and smelling its best.

What are the Best Cat Brushes?

When it comes to brushing your cat’s fur, it’s important to choose the right brush for her coat type. For example, if your cat has long, thick fur, you’ll need a different brush than if she has short, thin fur.

Some of the best brushes for long-haired cats include:

FURminator deShedding Tool

JW Pet Gripsoft Slicker Brush
ConairPRO Dog & Cat Pin Brush

Most Common Grooming Mistakes

Yes, people do make grooming mistakes, even when they have the best of intentions. Here are some of the most common mistakes people make when grooming their cats:

1. Brushing Too Hard

Ever seen a cat get brushed and then start to look like a poodle? Yeah, that’s because the person doing the brushing was probably using too much force.

When you brush your cat, be sure to use gentle strokes. Otherwise, you could end up damaging her fur and skin.

2. Not Brushing Enough

On the other hand, not brushing your cat enough can also cause problems. In particular, it can lead to matting and tangles in her fur.

So, be sure to brush your cat regularly – at least once a week – to keep her coat looking its best.

3. Not Using the Right Brush

As I mentioned earlier, it’s important to choose the right brush for your cat’s coat type. If you use a brush that’s too stiff, you could end up damaging her skin.

Conversely, if you use a brush that’s too soft, it probably won’t be effective at removing tangles and mats.

4. Not Trimming Your Cat’s Nails

You may not think of trimming your cat’s nails as part of the grooming process, but it’s actually an important part of keeping her healthy and happy.

If you don’t trim your cat’s nails on a regular basis, they can become overgrown and uncomfortable – not to mention dangerous. If you’re not sure how to trim your cat’s nails, ask your veterinarian or groomer for help.

5. Not Cleaning Your Cat’s Ears

Cats are susceptible to ear infections, so it’s important to keep their ears clean and free of debris. The best way to do this is to use a cotton ball soaked in ear cleaner to wipe out the inside of each ear.

Be sure to use a gentle ear cleaner specifically designed for use on cats. Never put anything into your cat’s ears without first checking with your veterinarian.

In Conclusion

Undercoat cats are beautiful, but they do require a bit more grooming than other types of cats. According to the Cat Fanciers Association, all cats should be groomed on a regular basis, but undercoat cats may need to be brushed daily during periods of heavy shedding.

The best way to keep your undercoat cat looking and feeling her best is to brush her regularly with the right type of brush, use a gentle shampoo and conditioner, and trim her nails as needed.

With a little bit of care and attention, you can help your undercoat cat stay healthy and happy for years to come!