Key Points
-
If your cat neglects their grooming habits, it indicates something's wrong, and you need to make an appointment with your vet.
-
Daily brushing your cat's fur reduces the amount of hair they ingest, minimizing hairballs.
-
You can make your own eye wipes using a soft cloth or cotton pad with saline solution.
Grooming isn't all about looking good. These must-have grooming supplies for your cats are essential for their excellent health. Looking like a refined feline is a bonus.
Grooming is integral to maintaining your cat's overall health and well-being. This article guides you through the must-have grooming supplies that keep your feline friends looking and feeling their best. It includes step-by-step tips on how to use each product.
Cats perform a lot of grooming on their own, but the staff at Point Vicente Animal Hospital in California advises you to keep a close eye on your cat's grooming habits. They state, "If she's not keeping herself as clean as she used to, she may not be able to reach every area of her body due to arthritis or being overweight. On the other hand, if you notice your cat licking, biting, or scratching more than usual, it could indicate a skin condition or behavioral issue."
They advise calling your vet if you notice any of these signs. Cats often give off subtle signs — sometimes almost imperceptible — when something is wrong. You don't want to let the problem get worse.
Giving your cat a hand with their grooming doesn't stop them from grooming themselves unless they just aren't physically able. Give them a little assistance with these grooming supplies. Find the right one and follow these instructions for a great grooming experience.
Cat Brush
There are all kinds of brushes, so learning what each one does is necessary. It's essential to know your cat's preferences and sensitivities.
These are the basic types of cat brushes:
-
Slicker brush: This type of brush features fine, short wires close together on a flat base. It removes loose hair and tangles, especially in cats with medium to long fur. It may not be appropriate for cats with sensitive skin, as the wires may cause discomfort.
-
Bristle brush: The bristle brush consists of soft, natural, or synthetic bristles that remove dirt, debris, and loose hair from your cat's coat. It works well for all coat types for daily brushing but not for mats or tangles.
-
Comb: Combs come in various widths and are helpful for detangling mats and removing loose undercoat fur. Wide-toothed combs are suitable for long-haired breeds, while fine-toothed combs work best for short-haired cats.
-
Flea comb: This special fine-toothed comb is used for locating and removing fleas and flea eggs. They come in plastic, metal, and single or double-toothed.
Brushing removes loose hair, minimizing shedding and preventing hairballs. Undigested hairballs may become lodged in their system, requiring surgery in extreme cases. Brushing stimulates the production of natural oils in your cat's skin, resulting in a healthy and shiny coat. It also distributes these oils evenly throughout the fur.
Brushing sessions allow you to bond with your cat. It builds trust and strengthens your relationship. Use positive reinforcement to create a good experience, like giving a treat whenever you brush your cat.
How To Choose the Right Brush for Your Cat
When selecting a brush for your cat, remember that different brushes cater to specific coat types — short to long, coarse or fine. Choose a brush made specifically for their coat type. Invest in a brush made with high-quality materials to ensure it lasts. Look for durable bristles or wires that withstand regular use and don't harm your cat's skin. Read reviews and customer testimonials for consistent quality.
Cat Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Toothbrushing isn't only about a cat's teeth. Neglected dental care leads to bacteria development and infections that cause serious health complications. Offer dental treats in between or instead of brushing if your cat refuses to cooperate with the toothbrush.
Cats, like humans, develop dental issues such as tartar build-up, gum disease, pain, and tooth decay. Regular dental care prevents these problems and avoids the need for extractions.
A TikTok video posted on June 27, 2023, highlights the importance of brushing your cat's teeth and shows that your cat can accept the toothbrush.
There are two basic types of toothbrushes: finger and dual-ended. A finger toothbrush fits over your fingertip and allows gentle and precise brushing. It's a great option for cats who resist using a conventional toothbrush. They more readily accept your finger in their mouth. Dual-ended toothbrushes usually have a small brush head on one end and a larger one on the other. They accommodate cats of different sizes and reach all areas of the mouth.
When selecting toothpaste for your cat, avoid human toothpaste because it contains xylitol, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Always opt for toothpaste specifically formulated for feline use. Cats have sensitive taste buds, so choose toothpaste with flavors they enjoy, such as poultry or seafood. This increases the likelihood that they'll accept the brush.
Dental Tips
Introduce the toothbrush gradually. Get your cat accustomed to it by allowing them to sniff it and lick a small amount of toothpaste off the brush. Gradually introduce the brushing motion over time.
Position the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the gum line and brush the outer surfaces of the teeth. The direction of movement isn't important as long as you get the job done. Be gentle, especially initially, as your cat's gums may be sensitive.
Before and after each successful toothbrushing session, offer your cat a treat or praise to create a positive association with the experience.
Ear Cleaner
If you have an indoor/outdoor cat, they're especially prone to getting dirt or ear mites. Checking their ears regularly is necessary. Cats' ears accumulate dirt, wax, ear mites, and debris, which may lead to infections or discomfort. Regular ear cleaning maintains healthy ears and reduces the risk of complications.
There are two methods for cleaning ears: liquid cleaners and wipes. Liquid ear cleaners are typically applied using a dropper or a cotton ball. They're effective in removing build-up and debris from the ear canal.
Ear wipes are pre-moistened pads designed for gentle cleaning. They offer convenience and are especially useful for cats that resist liquid ear cleaners, as many do. Many cats allow you to touch their ears and even clean inside them.
Follow these steps to clean your cat's ears effectively:
-
Look for signs of discomfort or infection. Before cleaning, inspect your cat's ears for redness, swelling, discharge, or excessive scratching. If you notice any abnormalities or if your cat winces in pain when handling their ears, consult your veterinarian.
-
Gently wipe the visible part of the ear. Use a liquid ear cleaner or ear wipe to gently clean the visible part of your cat's ear. To prevent injury, avoid inserting anything into their ear canal.
-
Seek professional help if needed. If you encounter resistance, your cat has a severe ear infection, or you're unsure about the process, it's best to enlist the help of a veterinarian or professional groomer.
Eye Wipes
A small amount of "gunk" in a cat's eye is normal. Use an eye wipe to clear it out to avoid build-up that can cause their eyelids to stick. Regular eye care is essential to maintain your cat's ocular health and prevent eye infections or irritations. Cleaning your cat's eyes also creates clear visibility.
You can use pre-moistened or DIY eye wipes. Pre-moistened eye wipes come in convenient, individually packaged sheets. They use gentle ingredients that are safe for your cat's delicate eyes. If you prefer a natural alternative, make your own eye wipes by moistening a soft cloth or cotton pad with a saline solution, distilled water, or cold chamomile tea.
Before using the wipes, make your cat relaxed and comfortable. Approach them gently and speak in soothing tones to minimize stress. Gently wipe around the eyes and avoid direct contact. Pet them first without the wipe on the face, including between the eyes.
Start from the inner corner of the eye and move outward, wiping away any discharge or debris. Be careful not to touch the sensitive areas directly. Don't forget to reward your cat! After successfully cleaning your cat's eyes, reward them with a treat or affection to make the experience positive and reinforce good behavior.
Nail Clippers
Most cats don't like their feet being touched, so trimming their nails is sometimes tricky. Before trying it yourself, it's best to visit a professional groomer to understand how to do it properly. Use calming treats or supplements before the session, whether at a groomer or doing it yourself.
Regular nail trims are critical for cats' well-being because long nails cause discomfort, snag on objects, or lead to painful injuries. Trimming your cat's nails prevents these issues.
There are three kinds of nail clippers:
-
Guillotine-style clippers: Guillotine clippers have a hole where you insert the cat's nail. When you squeeze the handles, a blade extends and cuts the nail. They're suitable for cats of all sizes.
-
Scissor-style clippers: These clippers resemble small scissors and work well for cats with thicker nails. They offer more control and are ideal for cats with larger paws.
-
Nail grinder: An electric nail grinder avoids the possibility of clipping your cat's nails too short and causing pain. However, your cat may not like the sound of the motor or the feel of the vibration.
Trim Your Cat's Nails Without Stress
Gradually introduce your cat to the clippers. Allow your cat to sniff and explore them before trimming their nails. This lets them become familiar with the tool. For an electric device, turn it on to let them get used to the sound. Handle their feet without using the clippers. Let them get used to having their feet touched and held. Allow them to see this doesn't hurt them.
Find a quiet space where your cat feels comfortable. Minimize distractions and ensure good lighting to easily see the quick (pink part inside the nail). Hold your cat's paw gently and trim or grind off only the sharp tip of the nail, avoiding the quick. If in doubt, cut smaller amounts or seek guidance from a veterinarian or professional groomer.
Waterless Shampoo
Most cats don't like traditional water baths unless you introduce them as kittens. A waterless bath is sometimes soothing for a cat. Waterless shampoo is a practical alternative to conventional bathing, particularly for cats with anxiety about water.
Waterless shampoo targets specific areas such as oily patches, dirty paws, or soiled fur between baths. Since cats do an excellent job of bathing themselves, spot cleaning is sometimes all that's necessary.
If it's too cold or rainy to bathe your cat, waterless shampoo allows you to maintain their cleanliness without exposing them to discomfort. They dry more quickly than when wholly soaked. After veterinary procedures or during recovery from illness, cats may be fragile or have restrictions on getting wet. Waterless shampoo provides a hygienic solution.
Look for products specifically formulated for cats, free of harsh chemicals or irritants, especially if you have a cat with sensitive skin. Read and follow the instructions carefully. Squeeze a small amount of waterless shampoo onto your hands and massage it into your cat's fur, working it through to remove dirt and odors. Be gentle to avoid causing any discomfort.
After applying the shampoo, use a clean towel to remove any excess product, dirt, and moisture. This ensures your cat's fur is clean and dry.
Groomed From Head to Tail
Hairballs, gingivitis, ear mites, eye infections. Prevent these with a regular grooming routine, including brushing your cat's fur and teeth and cleaning their ears and eyes. If your cat has plenty of opportunities to use scratching posts and pads, you might avoid trimming their nails. Check them to be sure.
Now that you know the benefits of grooming your cat, get the products you need. Follow these tips and instructions for the best experience possible. Your cat's health is better for it, and you're happier with a well-adjusted and good-looking cat.
Subscribing to Cattitude Daily brings other health tips and information straight to your inbox.
