How to Groom a Cat

Since cats are known to be fastidious creatures who clean themselves obsessively, most people think they need no additional grooming. Not so! Cats need regular brushing (especially long-haired breeds) and nail clipping.

Brushing the Cat

Most cats love to be brushed. Some behave as if the brush were catnip! Others will have to be acclimated to the process before they become comfortable with it. Getting the cat used to being brushed is easiest when it is still a kitten, but can be done with an adult. It will require patience and persistence, and a soft brush.

Soft bristled brushes are also best for kittens and any cat with sensitive skin. A wire brush will work best with longer haired cats.

To get a cat used to brushing, start with petting. Pet the cat all over, using the same kind of strokes you would use if brushing. When he accepts this, start alternating stroking with your hand with a stroke of a soft brush.

Slowly increase the brush strokes and the length of time you spend until you can brush him completely. Slowly switch to a wire brush or flea comb if needed. You can also use treats to encourage and distract the cat.

Reducing Hairballs

Regular brushing will greatly reduce the amount of hair the cat swallows, thus eliminating the hair ball problem, as well as limiting the amount of hair on your sofa and carpeting! It also helps eliminate the dust and other pollutants the cat may pick up and prevent her from ingesting harmful substances.

Fleas - Yuck!

If fleas are a problem, a flea comb is the number one best remedy. Comb slowly and methodically, paying special attention to the areas behind the ears, the neck and the base of he tail. Harder to do but just as important is the belly and the crease where the thigh meets the torso. Fleas love to hide in all these places. Pick the fleas out of the comb as you find them and drown them in a bowl of soapy water. Daily combing and vacuuming of your floors and furniture will eliminate all but the worst flea infestations. Wash bedding in hot water, and anything that the cat sleeps on that cannot be washed should be tossed in the dryer on high for 20 minutes. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag after each use.

I do not recommend the use of a flea collar on cats (or dogs). These will not do much to kill fleas, but they can make the cat very sick! I also do not recommend topical flea killers. Instead, try a lemon rinse. Place 1/2 a fresh lemon, cut up or sliced, in a measuring cup and cover to 1 cup with boiling water. Let stand till cool and then strain. This can be poured over the cat after a bath, wiped over her body with a cloth, or put in a spray bottle and sprayed all over. Do not rinse it off.

Clipping Nails will Save Furniture and Skin

Another important grooming g task is nail clipping. You will save not only your furniture and drapes, but your own skin as well!

Cats love to sharpen their claws, and you would be surprised at how quickly they can turn into daggers.

This is also easiest to do if you get the kitten used to it when she is very young. If you have an adult cat who has never had his nails clipped, you may want to have your vet or technician do it for you the first time.

Trimming claws is sometimes easier to do it you have someone else hold the cat. Another thing you can do is wrap the cat tightly in a towel, leaving only the paw you are working on exposed.

To clip the nail, simply push gently on the pad to extend the nail, then clip close to the quick, being careful not to cut into it. Be sure to do both the front and back paws.

One of my cats requires a helper to get her nails cut, the other one I can "trick" by catching her when she is sleeping, or nearly so. Sometimes it needs to be done in stages.

If clipping is a real problem for you or the cat, a solution might be a product called "Soft Claws". They were invented by a veterinarian, and are soft coverings that go over each claw. They remain on for about 8 weeks, and then will have to be replaced. They are supposed to be very easy to use.
(More info on Soft Claws)

Cats CAN be Bathed

Bathing is not often needed with cats, but there are exceptions. Most cats don't like it, but will tolerate it if done right.

Be sure to use warm water and have a couple of towels ready. Don't use a spray, but rather place the cat in a sink or tub with warm water, and use your cupped hand or a glass to pour fresh water over to rinse.

Use a very mild soap, preferably Castile soap or other natural product such as Head to Tail Furr- So- Soft Shampoo. Remove the cat from the tub and wrap in a large soft towel. I usually then place the cat in my lap to dry, using a second towel. You may also be able to use a hair dryer set on low to hasten drying.

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