Cat Grooming For Beginners
As a cat owner, you are well aware of how much time your cat spends grooming herself. The meticulous grooming routine that your cat exhibits is actually a survival behavior left over from ancestors in the wild. Being clean and free of odors meant that the cats were better able to avoid detection and confrontations from larger animals who might prey upon them.
While your cat may appear to be doing a pretty good job, her grooming actions are likely more of a behavior than an actual cleansing of the fur and skin. Grooming is instinct and routine, and cats will frequently groom to "self-soothe" in order to relax and calm down. To be property groomed, your cat needs your help and possibly the help of a professional groomer to be effectively groomed. Read on for cat grooming tips.
Brushing
Begin with gently brushing your cat's fur, paying close attention to areas that may be more sensitive, such as the ears or face. Make long, slow brushing motions through your cat's fur. Take this opportunity to closely examine your cat's skin underneath the fur for pests, flaking skin or sores.
Be very cautious about any matted or very dirty areas, since any extra pressure could cause your cat to become uncomfortable and begin to avoid your grooming efforts. Don't be tempted to grab some scissors and trim the hair; cats have extremely thin skin and are easily nicked. If you spot matting of the fur, common with long-haired cats, it's probably time for a professional grooming for your cat.
Bathing
Short-haired cats need to bathed about two times a year, and medium-to-long-haired cats need it more often; four times a year. Bathing is a traumatic experience for most cats, even those that don't seem to mind sitting under a rain shower will resist the bathing routine. It's important to look for a professional cat groomer for this task, since your cat may take out their unhappiness with this process out on you if done at home.
Look for a groomer that doesn't use restraints or sedation, if possible. Groomers who see cats exclusively will have the expertise to perform a gentle and slow bathing process to lessen your cat's anxiety. If you have a kitten, begin taking them to the cat groomer at six months of age, and soon your kitty will be accustomed to their baths.
Nails
In addition to bathing, nail trimming is best left to a professional groomer. Cats do not like having their paws held and will squirm and jerk, making a safe trimming impossible. There is a blood vessel in the nail, and trimming too close will cause an infection and expensive veterinarian bills.
Trust a professional groomer to take the best care of your beloved cat and help her stay as healthy and happy as possible.
To learn more about cat grooming, contact a company like Town & Country Kennel Inc.