Lion Shave & Dematting
Dealing With Tangled & Matted Fur Medically
Cats with long fur, or older cats who struggle to groom themselves, can develop painful mats. Over time, mats can grow tighter and become itchy. Eventually, the skin becomes irritated and inflamed, resulting in skin irritation, sores, and even infections.
Removing mats can be challenging and very painful if not done properly. As a cat's skin is very stretchy, extra care must be taken to ensure the cat isn't hurt while being groomed. Our team is equipped with the right tools and experience to safely remove mats, while causing the least discomfort to your cat possible.
If dematting is not an option, or the matting is so severe that dematting techniques would cause your cat pain, our team can give them a medical lion shave to help restore their comfort.
What is a Medical Lion Shave?
A lion shave is a specialized grooming procedure that involves carefully removing matted fur – usually quite close to the skin – on the cat's body, belly, and chest.
The primary goal of a lion shave for cats is to help improve their overall hygiene and comfort by preventing further matting and reducing the risk of skin infections and irritation. Unlike other grooming procedures, only a qualified groomer or veterinarian should perform a lion shave because it requires skill and accuracy to avoid harming the cat.
Your veterinarian will recommend that you establish a consistent grooming routine for your cat that will help prevent future matting. A lion shave will not ensure that your cat will remain mat-free, as mats can reform when hair grows back.
FAQs About Medical Lion Shaves
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about lion shaving at Tournament Valley Veterinary Hospital.
-
Can I get my senior cat a lion shave?
Yes, it is possible to give a senior cat a lion shave. However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian first. They will need to assess your cat's health, skin condition, and overall tolerance for grooming before proceeding with the procedure.
-
How long does a lion shave session take?
The length of a lion shave session for cats can vary depending on factors such as the cat's size, coat condition, and behaviour during the procedure.
On average, a lion shave can take anywhere from one to three hours. It is important to note that some cats may require multiple sessions or breaks in between to ensure their comfort and safety during the grooming process.
-
How much does a lion shave cost?
The cost of a lion shave varies depending on your cat's breed and size, and the type of coat they have. Whether your cat has any significant behavioural issues can also affect the cost. For a better idea of the cost, please contact us for an estimate.
-
What does a lion shave look like?
With a lion shave, the hair is shaved very close to the skin on the body, belly, and chest. Long hair will remain on the legs, around the cat’s head, and leaving a 'pom' on the tail.
Your cat will look like a lion for a short while, until the hair grows back.
-
Will a lion shave remove matted fur?
Yes, it will. Clipping the fur short is often the most compassionate and helpful method to eliminate these tangles, ensure the cat's comfort, and prevent any potential harm to its skin.
New Patients Welcome
Tournament Valley Veterinary Hospital is welcoming new patients! Our veterinarians provide medical care for cats and dogs in Kamloops. Contact us today to schedule your pet’s first appointment.