Cat Grooming
How much pet grooming your cat requires will depend a lot on how long his coat is.
While short haired cats only need combing once per week (though daily is preferable), long haired varieties will need brushing at least once every day to maintain their coat in a good condition and keep fur balls at bay.
This aspect of cat care needs to be begun at a very early age so that your pet becomes accustomed to being brushed and, hopefully, learns to enjoy this experience.
As well as being vital for their health and well being, combing is a lovely bonding experience for you to have with them.
Start by visiting a pet store and choosing a comb that is suitable to the type of coat that your cat has.
Long haired cats will need a comb with longer teeth.
For all types of cats you will require a comb with wider spaced teeth to help remove dirt, dead hair and larger particles and to help to work out any mats.
A finer comb will help smooth the coat and will pick up any stray fleas.
If your cat dislikes being combed then a grooming mitt may be the answer as it fits over your hand and to the cat feels just like it is being stroked.
Start pet grooming at your cat's neck and move down its body in the direction that the fur lies.
Don't forget the tail or underbelly, though be very gentle as these areas are very sensitive.
If you find a knot or mat then use your fingers to try and gently untangle it before using a comb or slicker brush to smooth the area.
Slicker brushes have the added advantage of helping to stimulate natural oils in the cat's skin, which keep it looking shiny and beautiful.
While combing your cat part the hair with your fingers to check the condition of the skin, looking for any red or sore areas or any unusual lumps or bumps that may require veterinary attention.
This is also a good opportunity to check its ears, nose, mouth, eyes, nails and feet for any untoward signs.
It is rarely necessary to bathe cats as, not only do they hate it, it tends to make knots and matts worse and to remove essential oils from the fur and skin.
If properly groomed then these natural oils will ensure that your cat always has a lovely shiny coat.
While short haired cats only need combing once per week (though daily is preferable), long haired varieties will need brushing at least once every day to maintain their coat in a good condition and keep fur balls at bay.
This aspect of cat care needs to be begun at a very early age so that your pet becomes accustomed to being brushed and, hopefully, learns to enjoy this experience.
As well as being vital for their health and well being, combing is a lovely bonding experience for you to have with them.
Start by visiting a pet store and choosing a comb that is suitable to the type of coat that your cat has.
Long haired cats will need a comb with longer teeth.
For all types of cats you will require a comb with wider spaced teeth to help remove dirt, dead hair and larger particles and to help to work out any mats.
A finer comb will help smooth the coat and will pick up any stray fleas.
If your cat dislikes being combed then a grooming mitt may be the answer as it fits over your hand and to the cat feels just like it is being stroked.
Start pet grooming at your cat's neck and move down its body in the direction that the fur lies.
Don't forget the tail or underbelly, though be very gentle as these areas are very sensitive.
If you find a knot or mat then use your fingers to try and gently untangle it before using a comb or slicker brush to smooth the area.
Slicker brushes have the added advantage of helping to stimulate natural oils in the cat's skin, which keep it looking shiny and beautiful.
While combing your cat part the hair with your fingers to check the condition of the skin, looking for any red or sore areas or any unusual lumps or bumps that may require veterinary attention.
This is also a good opportunity to check its ears, nose, mouth, eyes, nails and feet for any untoward signs.
It is rarely necessary to bathe cats as, not only do they hate it, it tends to make knots and matts worse and to remove essential oils from the fur and skin.
If properly groomed then these natural oils will ensure that your cat always has a lovely shiny coat.
