The Easy Guide to Grooming Your Cat

Ever tried to groom your finicky feline pal? It’s not easy. Cats have always been self-cleaning machines, and it’s something they’re happy to do without human intervention. But times have changed––in today’s world of pampered pets, more and more kitties are finding themselves being bathed, brushed, and clipped to the hilt by their human companions.

If the word “feisty” comes to mind when you think of your cat, do not despair—here are some tips for getting the job done:

Brushing

Regular brushing minimizes shedding, stimulates skin, and promotes a healthy coat for your cat; it’s also the best way to prevent the formation of dangerous hair mats. As you brush, check your cat’s eyes, ears, skin, and teeth–cats are stoic when it comes to pain, so doing a quick and routine body inspection will alert you to any poor health issues your cat may be experiencing.

For many, brushing a cat is easier said than done. Arden Moore, author of 50 Simple Ways to Pamper Your Cat, suggests coaxing a dubious kitty by calling him invitingly and rewarding him with a treat when he approaches. Next, stroke and brush him gently, using a soft-bristled brush. Start at the tip of the fur and work deeper into the coat. Comb in the direction the fur grows, as going against the grain may irritate sensitive skin.

If your cat is fearful start with gentle rubs or a scratch behind the ear, and always remember to reward your kitty for his patience. In extenuating circumstances a cat may need his fur trimmed, otherwise a weekly brushing should do it (long-haired cats do best with daily brushing).

Washing

Should you bathe your cat? Not necessarily. Felines are very good self-groomers and rarely need baths; however, there are exceptions (such as with older cats and ones with medical problems who may not be adept at keeping themselves clean, or if your cat gets into something sticky or gross).

Bathing does not have to be uncomfortable or stressful. Make the job easier by using a rubber mat and sprayer–the mat will keep kitty from slipping, and the sprayer is quieter than a normal faucet and allows for better control of the water. Hold your cat by the scruff (the skin behind the neck) to maintain control while you wash. With warm water, gently work the shampoo into the fur. Rinse thoroughly–leftover shampoo can cause skin irritation.

“You can desensitize an animal to the experience by taking your time and by being thoughtful to what the cat is experiencing,” says Jay Andors, a professional groomer and owner of HydroSurge in New York City.

A cat that’s older, anxious, or has severe mats in their fur may benefit from professional grooming. Look for a facility that is clean and well-lit, and that has a knowledgeable staff with experience in feline hygiene.

Nail trimming

When it comes to cats, long nails are not a fashion statement. Overgrown claws make walking difficult and pose a hazard as they can easily get caught on curtains, blankets, or carpet. Trim your cat’s nails every four to six weeks, distracting her with talk or treats while you do so. If you are unsure about the best way to trim, ask your veterinarian to show you how before trying it yourself.

We don’t recommend declawing, which removes the first bone in the paw and is very painful for your cat. A scratching post is a kinder alternative, and cats can be trained to use them.

Have any cat grooming tips you want to add? Share them in the comments!

By Tracy Line for TAILS

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Melania P.

10:49AM PDT on Mar 19, 2013

Sharing

March 19
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Tanya W.

6:50AM PST on Feb 19, 2013

My girl has shreaded my beautiful lounge - would go underneath, around & over the scratching post to get to the lounge. I love my girl more than any piece of furniture so it is ok.

February 19
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Michele W.

10:57AM PST on Feb 18, 2013

Thank you

February 18
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Carrie-Anne B.

6:32AM PST on Nov 19, 2012

thanks for sharing :)

November 19
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David V.

9:07PM PST on Nov 11, 2012

my cat loves to be brushed...never tried giving her a bath though.

November 11
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Elisabeth T.

10:23AM PST on Nov 11, 2012

My kitties love getting brushed...

Robert G.

1:50PM PST on Nov 9, 2012

cont. squirt bottle. Once they had the idea of using a scratch post they have usually stopped scratching the furniture.

November 9
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1:42PM PST on Nov 9, 2012

I had one cat who could not get the idea of using a scratching post until I laid it on its side and mimiced scratching it myself on all fours, the light suddenly came on, after a few days I returned it to an upright position and never another problem. To stop them from scratching furniture I have used a

Kit S.

9:30AM PST on Nov 9, 2012

How do you get a cat to use a scratching post? We got a scratching post when we got our kitten, now just over 6 mths old, but he has never really used it. He scratches pretty much everything BUT the post! I even tried spraying with catnip, to no avail :(

Robin H.

11:08AM PST on Nov 8, 2012

When I bathe my cats, I put a big fluffy towel in a dry bathtub so they have something to hold onto. I have a container with comfortably warm soapy water and one with clear water beside me. Apply some of the soapy water, lather, and then rinse using a cup to "bail" from the containers. I never pour water over their head or ears - if those need cleaned I use a damp washcloth at another time. Have dry towels handy and wear old clothes. My cats are terrified of the hair dryer, so I just towel them dry and then keep them in a warm room. Never wash a small kitten or sick kitty and then let them get cold when damp, it could actually kill them.