Most of us who have a cat in our family are quite happy with the fact that they often take care of the bulk of the grooming process. In fact, there may be times when it seems as if they are grooming themselves constantly. Although that may be the case, there are also times when they may need a helping hand. Understanding how to groom a cat can go a long way in helping them to be healthy and beautiful.
Before we discuss some of the specifics of grooming, it is a good idea to understand the need to handle things properly. Your cat might not like to be groomed and if that is the case, a gentle hand and soft voice can go a long way in helping both of you get through it successfully. It may take some time but most cats, even those who are initially resistant, grow to love the grooming process.
Brushing – It is a good idea to spend some time brushing the cat on a regular basis. Doing so is a healthy choice for the cat’s coat and it will remove dirt, spread out the skin oil and keep tangles from forming. It will also help to reduce shedding, which is a problem for many cats.
Short haired cats typically only need brushed once per week. A longer haired cat may benefit from a daily brushing.
Bathing – This is a problem for many cats, as they might not appreciate the water, but it is important to do. Start by brushing the cat and use a towel or rubber mat in the tub to keep them from slipping. Fill the tub with a few inches of lukewarm water and spray them down to wet their hair. Do not spray directly in their nose or eyes. Massage in the shampoo. rinse thoroughly and dry them gently with a big towel.
Nail Clipping – Your cat is likely to be resistant to this part of the grooming process but it is important to do. It is best if you start gently rubbing your cat’s feet to get them used to the feeling of having their paws touched. When it is time to clip, use quality clippers and only clip off the white tip.
If the cat is especially resistant to any part of the process, don’t give up hope. They will do much better if they are cared for in this way on a regular basis. It may take some time and effort on your part but it can go a long way in helping them to get used to the grooming.
Taking care of your cat often means that you will have to step outside of your comfort zone. This may just be one of those areas but the end result will be well worth it.