Cat Grooming Supplies
Despite the fact that your cat probably spends the majority of the day grooming itself, it is still necessary for you to brush 
your cat's sleek coat from time to time. The amount of effort and frequency of the grooming depends mainly on your cat's coat. For the most part, the longer the coat, the more often and more thorough the grooming routine. Cats with very short hair are usually content with a quick brushing once a month, while cats with flowing long coats, such as the Persian, should be brushed at least every other day.
Why Grooming Your Cat Matters
- Brushing your cat every now and then prevents the build up of painful knots. Some cats, particularly long-hairs, develop knots so painful that a trip to the veterinarian is required, and the cat must be anesthetized during the procedure.
- Helps prevent hairballs. Hairballs, while usually pretty harmless, can be dangerous if lodged in the cat's digestive tract, requiring surgical removal.
- Easier to see fleas and notice any other issues.
- Less vacuuming for you. Yay!
- Can prevent eye problems by keeping long hair out of your cat's eyes.
- Hopefully grooming routines will become a good time to bond with your cat.
The Routine
- First, make sure you schedule the grooming sessions at a time that works for you and your cat. Do not rush through the routine, and avoid grooming your cat if it is attempting to nap.
- Brushing-- If you are brushing a long-hair, begin by brushing out any knots on the belly and legs. Brush the fur in an upward motion with a bristle brush or rubber brush. When brushing the tail, make a part down the middle and brush the fur out to either side. If you are brushing a short-hair, use a metal brush and brush from head to tail. Use a bristle or rubber brush to remove dead hair. Be very gentle when brushing around the chest and belly.
- Bathing-- This part may not be fun for your feline friend. Bathing is not always necessary. Some cats go their whole lives without a bath and remain healthy and pretty. However, if your cat's coat becomes oily, greasy, or smelly, it may be time to break out the kitty shampoo. Bathing a cat is simple on the surface: get a mild shampoo that is safe for cats, place a rubber mat in a sink or bathtub, and use a hose or pitcher to rinse, shampoo, and rinse again. Avoid getting shampoo or water in the cat's eyes, ears, and mouth. Dry kitty off with a towel and perhaps throw him or her a treat for being brave.
- Nail Clipping-- Hold on to your horses, because for many cats-- and humans-- this is the most unpleasant part of the grooming routine. Make sure you have sharp kitty nail clippers designed specifically to trim the nails of cats. Always have some styptic powder on hand in case you accidentally cut the quick, a vein that runs through the nail. The quick is a pink area and can usually be seen under the nail. Avoid this area, as it will cause quite a bit of bleeding, which can be stopped with the styptic powder. Cut the white tip of the nail, just before it curls. Apply gentle pressure to the top of the foot and the pads, as this will cause the cat to fully extend its nails. Start clipping nails young so your cat becomes used to having its feet handled.
- Dental Hygiene-- Regularly brush your kitty's teeth. It might seem silly, but keeping your cat's teeth clean prevents many harmful infections and helps prevent tooth decay. Buy a dental hygiene kit made for felines to ensure that you have safe and thorough supplies.
The Supplies
Although the type of supplies you will need depends mainly on your cat's coat type, here are some basic supplies that are helpful to have around the house.
- Combs-- Combs are especially necessary if you have a long-hair. Combs will be able to get out all of those little knots. Flea combs are helpful for any cat and will help rid your kitty of these pests.
- Brushes-- All cats need a brush of some sort. Use a bristle brush or rubber brush on long-hairs and to remove dead hairs from short-hairs. Metal brushes are good for short-hairs.
- Brush Gloves/Pads-- These are awesome for long-haired cats. The brush gloves or brush pads do a great job of removing dead hairs and simplify the grooming process for you and your kitty cat.
- Shedding Blades-- Use a shedding blade on long-haired cats to remove tons of dead hair and keep your pussy cat looking like the cat's meow.
- Kitty shampoo-- It's best to buy a shampoo specifically made for cats or dogs to ensure that it is safe to use.
- Dental kit-- Buy a complete dental hygiene kit made for felines to keep Fluffy's pearly whites sparkling.
- Nail clippers-- Make sure you have sharp nail clippers designed for cats and give your kitty the manicure she deserves.
- Styptic powder-- If you are trimming your cat's nails, always have styptic powder on hand in case you cut into the quick!
- Treats-- Reward your cat with a treat after the grooming routine so brushing and bathing is associated with lots of fun!
- Confidence-- Make sure you remain calm and confident while grooming. Many professionals claim animals can sense nervousness and will become uneasy during the grooming process if they think that you are afraid.
Related Guides
External Links
- CatChannel.com-- Tons of cat grooming tips.
- ASPCA.org-- Helpful advice for grooming your cat.
- HowCast.com-- Videos with step-by-step advice for getting your feline looking sharp.
- Pier55.com-- How to properly groom your cat.
