Grooming and Home Care
How often should I give my cat a bath?
For short-haired cats who keep themselves clean--Never! Most cats are very low maintenance in the grooming department. If you are allergic to cats, or have a cat who is unable to keep herself clean due to a medical issue, she can be bathed as needed. It is best to train them for this as well, or have the bath done by a professional.
- Vet's Best dry clean waterless cat foam
- Wash your cat without water!
- E'Plaza Adjustable Polyester Pet Cat Washing Mesh Bags
- Guardian Gear Nylon Cat Muzzle
- Helps keep you and your cat safe during a bath
Does my long-haired cat need a hair cut?
He does if he is unable to keep his hair from getting matted. You should brush him every day to help him out, but sometimes keeping the hair short is the only solution. A professional groomer can clip most of the long hair, while leaving the head, legs and tail (a lion cut). Some cats just need to be clipped around their anal area, which is called a sanitary clip.
- Four Paws Magic Coat Love Glove, Furminator long hair deshedding tool, Safari self cleaning slicker brush
- Tools to help you remove the loose hair off your cat on a daily basis. Prevents hairballs and excessive shedding and matting.
Do I need to brush my cat?
Yes. It will help prevent hairballs. It also helps keep mats away. It can be a wonderful bonding time for you and your cat, also. In addition, you will find less hair around your home if you FURminate your cat daily which can be helpful to people with allergies.
- FURminator
- Deshedding tool
Should I trim my cat's toenails or get him declawed?
You can train your cat (lots of treats, again!) to allow you to trim his nails or apply nail caps to his claws at home. Your vet or groomer can show you how. Surgical declawing of an adult cat is a last resort to be discussed with your vet.
- JW Pet Company Deluxe Nail Trimmer for Cats
- For trimming nails at home
- Soft Nail Caps for Cat Pet Claw
- Control,
- Soft Claws or Soft Paws Nail Caps
- An alternative to declawing. You can put these on at home.
- Scratching posts
- These discourage your pet from scratching on unwanted surfaces and also help to keep nails trimmed.
How do I get my cat used to having her paws touched?
For nail trims, play with your cat’s paws while she’s asleep before introducing clippers. Then, work on pushing on the foot pads to extend the nails. Once your cat is comfortable with both of these, you can then introduce nail clippers.
Should I brush my cat’s teeth?
Yes! Cats get tooth decay and periodontal disease just as we do. Start at a young age to get your kitty used to it. Buy special paste and brushes at a pet supply store.