Expert: Tomay - 3/6/2006

Question
I adopted a DSH and a DMH from the local pound. They grew up together at the pound and are now 6 months old.  They are so friendly and a joy, except:
They don't appear to be too good at keeping clean.
The one with longer hair smells like "poo" after she leaves the litter box. She gets feces on her tail.
Will this improve with maturity?

The two of them don't seem to clean theirselves as often as our older cat who is 10 now.

Thanks

Answer
Hello Susan,
What a delimma for you!  The one with longer coat would probably benefit by a trip to the groomer.  Be sure and check around and get some referrels, as not all groomers work with cats.  A simple sanitary clip in the tail area and under can do wonders to reduce the problem you are having with her now.  It is possible, that these babies were separated from their mother sooner than needed.  Kittens learn a WEALTH of information about 'kitty hygeine' and liter box habits, among many things.  When the little ones are not allowed sufficient 'schooling' time from Mama Kitty, then sometimes these issues come up.  It may be something that will improve with age, and perhaps learn some good habits from the 10 year old.  One can only hope!
Hope this will be helpful for you,
Thank you for your inquiry,
Tomay