Cats are among the cleanest animals there are. They clean their coat very regularly, spending about a third of their waking hours grooming. Still, it's very helpful to take care of their coat and give them a hand with this chore. In this article, we'll explain why and how.
Why Help Your Cat With Their Daily Grooming?
Why your kitty may need some help
As we just mentioned, cats spend a huge amount of time on their daily cleaning. However, they can't clean their entire body, which is why owners need to look after their coat.
Plus, senior cats have trouble bending over and untangling all their knots. Act before things get out of hand and the knots become impossible to undo. Brushing your cat is especially essential in spring and fall, when their coat sheds and renews itself.
Spend quality time with your companion
By grooming your cat, you get to pamper them while sharing a special moment together! Looking after your cat's coat is just as important as keeping their litter box clean for their comfort and happiness. They may also enjoy brushing, which they'll associate with being petted!
Grooming can improve your companion's health
Grooming isn't just about keeping your cat looking good and clean. Regular grooming will also help you keep an eye on your cat's health. It can help minimize health problems such as digestive issues caused by hairballs.
Plus, regular brushing removes dirt, dead hair and dander, all of which contribute to unhealthy skin. It also prevents your cat from getting matted fur that would require the help of a professional groomer. For more advice, listen to a vet's podcast on this topic in this article.
Do it for the sake of your home too
Brushing also helps remove loose hair from your cat before it falls out. What owner has never grumbled about cat hair stuck to their clothes or covering the floor and furniture? Brush your cat to avoid finding it scattered on your clothes, bed or couch, for example.
How to Brush Your Cat Properly
Good tools make all the difference
Having the right grooming accessories is essential for a clean, healthy cat. Choosing the right tool can be tricky, since every cat is different and so is every situation. All cats need brushing, even short-haired ones, but some of these little creatures are reluctant to be pampered. If you've ever been scratched while trying to groom your cat, you already know. So the right gear is key to a successful experience.
Here's some advice to help you choose.
Short-haired cats
For a short-haired cat, grooming once a week is recommended. Use a fine-toothed comb and brush from the head down to the tail. Always brush or comb in the direction the hair grows. A metal comb works well, but as with any grooming tool, use it gently so it's pleasant for your kitty and doesn't hurt them. Once you've finished combing, take a soft-bristle brush to remove loose hair.
Long-haired cats
Grooming a long-haired cat takes a bit more work and should be done every two or three days. But this care will also have much more of a positive effect on your long-haired cat's coat than on other cats. Start with the legs and belly, moving toward the head with a wide-toothed comb to work out the knots. Here too, brush in the direction the hair grows.
For very bushy tails, we recommend parting the tail down the middle and gently combing the fur on each side. Knots can be separated by hand with a little talcum powder. As with a short-haired cat, use a soft-bristle brush to remove excess fur.
When should you start brushing your cat?
It's best to get your cat used to a grooming routine as a kitten, but it's never too late to start with older cats. Take it step by step until your furball is comfortable with the accessories. With time and patience, you'll have a well-groomed cat and grooming will become a relaxing, enjoyable experience for both of you.
Which Cat Grooming Accessories Should You Buy?
Brush or comb?
There's no obvious answer. Combs are very effective but are often less comfortable for our four-legged friends.
Brushes are a great way to make your cat's coat nice and soft. Your cat will probably enjoy the experience more, because brushes don't pull on the hair as much as combs. Cats even tend to enjoy the feel of a brush: it gives them the same sensation as being petted.
Other useful grooming accessories for your cat
Besides caring for their coat, other routine care for your cat includes brushing their teeth, filing or trimming their claws and giving them a bath (yes, it's possible). As with brushing their coat, it's important to start slowly and go step by step so it goes well and stays comfortable for you and your cat. You'll find safe, effective options in our grooming and care collection, at a reduced price.
We hope you enjoyed this article and wish you pleasant grooming sessions with your pet!
Also worth reading: MAINE COON CATS: HOW TO RAISE THEM WELL
