When it comes to pets, cats are fairly low maintenance thanks to their independent nature. Most breeds are happy with a warm, safe home, food, water, litter basket and scratch post, but tender loving care will ensure they thrive!
Grooming offers an opportunity to bond with your pet and allows you to check their body for unseen lumps. It also stimulates blood flow, improves muscle tone, and conditions their skin and coat.
Get into the habit when your cat is a kitten and always pick your moment wisely – experts advise waiting until your cat is relaxed (curled up on the couch, perhaps) or sleepy (after dinner, for example).
Cats use bristles on their tongues to “brush” their fur and remove dirt and loose hair, but it’s a time-consuming task. You can help the move the process along by removing knots or tangles with a fine-tooth comb and using a natural-bristle or rubber cat brush to remove any loose hairs. Once a week is perfect for short-haired breeds, daily is best for long-haired types. Use gentle sweeping strokes and be careful of your cat’s face, belly, and chest.
When appropriate, take the chance to check that your cat’s eyes, ears, teeth, and gums are all in good health. Look at their claws too, but only trim these if necessary (and if you know exactly what you’re doing), as cats need long nails for climbing.
Bathing is usually unnecessary, unless your cat is sticky or has rolled in something unsavory. If that’s the case, use a small basin of warm water and proper cat shampoo to clean their body (not face!). Move as quickly (and calmly) as possible and make sure you dry your pet thoroughly afterwards. When in doubt, seek advice from your vet or use a professional pet parlour.
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