A Beginner's Guide to Cat Grooming: Everything to Know

Are you missing the companionship that comes with being a pet owner?

If you're thinking about getting a cat, you may be wondering about everything that goes into a cat's regular grooming schedule.

Cats are cute, lovable, and independent creatures, but when not properly groomed, they can start to look unkempt and even wreak havoc on your furniture!

Here is what you need to know about cat grooming.

Brushing Your Cat's Fur

Healthy cats will regularly clean themselves, but it's often not enough, especially if your cat is overweight or has depression. Brushing can easily fit into a cat grooming budget!

It's important to brush your cat at least once every week to ensure your cat's coat doesn't become matted. This is especially important with long-haired cats and you may want to brush them more often. Regular brushing can lead to less shedding and fewer hairballs, too!

Try using different brushing techniques to untangle knots all over.

Bathing Your Cat

Most cats won't have to be bathed too often, if you choose to bathe them at all. However, bathing may be necessary if your cat has gotten dirty outside, has come into contact with something that could harm it, or is too unwell to take care of itself.

When bathing your cat, keep the bath as short as possible. Use a gentle shampoo for cats and a few inches of warm water in a sink to work the dirt out of your cat's fur. Rinse off your cat until the water runs clear and dry your cat with a towel.

You can brush your cat's fur once it's dry for a more thorough grooming.

Giving Your Cat a Haircut

Haircuts are usually unnecessary, but your cat can benefit from one if it has a matted coat or lives in a warm environment. Whether it's a belly shave to get rid of matted fur or a lion cut for fun, a haircut can really make a difference in your cat's appearance!

Like regular brushing, a haircut will also cut back on matted fur, hairballs, and shedding.

Trimming Your Cat's Nails

It's in a cat's nature to claw at things, and that may eventually become apparent on your furniture! Cutting cats' nails can be a tricky operation, but one that will be beneficial for your home.

Using a pair of cat clippers, snip off the sharp tips of your cat's nails every two weeks. Before attempting to trim your cat's nails, get them accustomed to having their feet touched. Pet their legs and press on their toes to familiarize them with the feeling.

If you're not sure you can handle trimming your cat's nails, consider scheduling an appointment with a mobile pet groomer that can come to your house!

Useful Cat Grooming Tips

Now that you know how to properly care for a cat's appearance, you just need basic supplies and the cat itself! Keeping your pet and home clean will be easy with these cat grooming tips!

If you're in the Beaverton, Oregon area and would like to have your pet professionally groomed, contact us!