The Cat's Meow!
Your cat works hard at cleaning and maintaining their purrfect appearance. While cats can take care of most of their own hygiene needs, assisting them with regular grooming sessions can provide you with a wonderful bonding opportunity.
Making it Enjoyable
It is important to let your cat get used to his or her grooming sessions. Select a quiet time, in a relaxed setting, when both you and your cat are calm. This will help ensure that it is an enjoyable experience for both of you.
Your first sessions may be short in length, lasting only two to three minutes and getting your cat use to being handled. The more often you do this, the longer the sessions can become. Remember to always make grooming sessions a positive experience. Take time to play before and after your session, and give your cat a small treat at the end.
Brushing
Taking time to comb or brush your cat on a regular basis helps keep their coat clean, distribute natural oils, and keep snarls out. Cats with short hair generally only need to be brushed once a week, while longer-haired cats may require daily brushing.
Bathing
You have probably seen your cat cleaning itself several times a day. Cats are generally able to keep their coats clean themselves. However, if their coat does become greasy or oily, or if they have managed to get into something that is causing an odor or leaves them sticky, a bath may be needed.
While your cat probably won't enjoy a bath as much as you do, it isn't a difficult task to complete. It is best to comb out the coat first to remove any snarls, mats, and debris that may be hiding. Make sure to use lukewarm water and a mild feline-approved shampoo, and make sure not to spray water directly into your cat's ears, nose, or eyes. Once you are done, take some extra time to cuddle your cat in a towel.
Nail Clipping
Prior your cat's first pedicure, it is important to get them use to having their feet handled. Daily foot massages will help your cat get use to the feeling of having someone touching their feet. Praising your cat and rewarding them with food treats can also help reinforce this as a positive activity.
Once your cat is used to having their feet handled, you can clip their nails using high-quality cat nail scissors. Our veterinary staff will be happy to demonstrate and show you the proper technique if you have questions.
Keeping your family pet looking like the cat's meow that they are is important. The Cat Clinic of Cary is happy to assist in any way with any of these services. Contact us today to set up your next appointment.