Cat Grooming
Despite cats seeming to spend endless hours grooming and cleaning themselves, they do need some additional grooming from their owners. Their length of hair will determine how regularly grooming is needed, with short haired coats needing little more than a session once a month, to very long flowing coats needing grooming every other day with a brush.
Matted coats can be troublesome, and it is important to tackle them quickly before they develop. Comb as gently as possible from front to back and try and talk to your cat as you do it in a calm, soft voice to keep your cat relaxed and tranquil. Never try and cut the clumps out with nail scissors as there is too great a risk that you will slip and cut your cat.
Part of the grooming process is eye care, as eye matter can cause discomfort to your cat and even result in infections. Using a face cloth that has been dipped in tepid water, gently wipe across the lower lids of the cat. Be careful not to touch the eyeball itself. Continue with a fresh piece of the same face cloth until eyes are clear.
Cats do not like water, but sometimes a bath is necessary. Try and introduce your cats to bath time as early on as possible in their lives so they have a chance to get used to it. Wet the cat completely with a shower spray or cup dunked in warm water, being careful to avoid their ears and eyes. Apply a de-greaser to very greasy coats and rub in thoroughly. Use the shower head to rinse it off. Then apply the shampoo. Rub your cat all over, again avoiding eyes and ears. Rinse thoroughly making sure every last trace has been removed. If conditioner is needed apply it at this stage and rinse. Use a clean soft towel to dry off your cat and if they have a long coat, use a comb or brush to give their coat a good groom whilst they are drying.
Bath time and grooming sessions in general are a good opportunity for you to check the coat and skin on your cat to make sure they are in good condition. If you notice anything wrong such as rashes, bumps, poor quality hair or a general poor appearance of the coat, it may be prudent to contact the vet.
