4 minutes | How-to
Cats dedicate a good chunk of their wakeful hours to keeping their fur, paws, and face in top-notch condition. But no matter how meticulous they are, our feline friends sometimes need a helping hand.
Grooming isn’t just about looking good; it’s essential for your cat’s comfort. Regular grooming keeps them feeling soft, looking clean, and prevents those pesky mats that could irritate their skin.
Absolutely! Despite their self-care dedication, regular grooming is still a must. Weekly sessions are good, but multiple times a week are even better, especially for those long-haired furballs. Grooming goes beyond brushing; it involves cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and giving their claws a trim – all part of the glamorous life of a well-groomed cat.
Cat parents know that cats have a small window of tolerance for fuss. It’s best to groom them little and often, avoiding the occasional, marathon grooming session. Treats are your secret weapon to keep them distracted, and paying attention to their body language is crucial unless you want your arm to become their new pin cushion.
Start grooming them from a young age so they’re used to the process and are less likely to fight back as adults. It might even mean they enjoy parts of the grooming process, like being brushed.
Skin and Fur Care: Brushes and combs, akin to your hair care routine, are essential. Different brushes are available depending on your cat’s fur length. Regular brushing prevents matting, ensuring your cat’s fur stays lumpy-free.
Sometimes, your cat might need a bath, an experience they probably won’t appreciate. But it’s just as crucial as brushing. Opt for a cat-safe shampoo; human shampoos can be harsh on their delicate skin.
Ear Care: Despite their exceptional hearing, cats need help keeping their ears clean. Regularly check their ears during grooming sessions, ensuring they’re healthy. If you notice anything unusual, consult your vet. Use ear cleaning wipes to gently clean the shell of their ear and any wax build-up on their temple. Never use ear buds or go deep within the ear.
Paw and Nail Care: A spa day for your cat means getting their nails done. Trimming their claws not only protects your furniture and floors but ensures they don’t get stuck and hurt themself. Having a scratching post can reduce the need for trimming but as your kitty ages you may need to manage there nails more often.
Dental Care: Yes, their breath might not always be pleasant, but brushing your cat’s teeth is crucial. It prevents plaque build-up, wards off gum disease, and keeps their breath fresh(er). Pick up a cat-safe toothpaste and gently rub on teeth with finger. This is a process to don’t pressure your cat
Eye Care: With their exceptional vision, it’s crucial to check your cat’s eyes regularly for signs of health concerns. If they have blocked tear duces or crusty eyes gently wipe a warm clean damp compress over and away from eyes. If you have concerns, consult your vet.
Long Hair Cat Grooming: Your majestic long-haired cat may need more attention to keep that glorious mane in check. Regular brushing and detangling are essential to prevent uncomfortable matting. It also stops them from swallowing too much fur, which might end up on your rug or, worse, cause blockages in their digestive tract.
So, when you step into the grooming section of your local pet shop, armed with this knowledge, you’ll be a grooming pro, and your cat will be the most glamorous feline on the block!
Images taken by cottonbro studio and Yulia Ilina