Cats are known for being on the low end of the spectrum when it comes to maintenance requirements, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need to be properly taken care of. Though they tend to be groomers by nature, cats should be given a little help from time to time to keep their fur, paws, ears, and teeth clean and healthy.

Cat grooming helps to prevent hairballs and gives you the opportunity to do an examination for any signs of health problems. Robinwood Kennel offers first-rate pet care services to the residents of Highland Heights, KY, and understands the importance, as well as the challenges, of cat grooming. These animal specialists provide the following tips to assist you in successfully grooming your feline:

• Trimming Claws: Cats use their paws for many things, but if their claws become too long, it can make it painful for them to climb, scratch, and land when they jump. It’s best to hold the cat secure in your lap or on a table and use special clippers to trim off the white portion of the claw straight across and in one motion. It usually works best to clip only one or two claws at a time.
• Brushing Fur: Brushing your cat’s fur is one of the most important steps of cat grooming. This will remove loose fur so it doesn’t end up becoming a hairball and also encourages good circulation. You always want to brush in the same direction as your cat’s coat and start off with a gentle stroke. If you come across any matting, try to disentangle it gently with your fingers or a wide-toothed comb.  
• Cleaning Ears: Your cat’s ears should be checked periodically for wax buildup. If you notice that there’s residue present, moisten a cotton ball with baby oil or feline ear cleaner and dab it carefully in the ear to wipe away the wax. Never use a Q-tip; this can damage their eardrum or canal should they make any sudden movements.
• Go To A Professional Groomer: If your cat is intolerant of being groomed, it’s best to let a professional groomer handle each of these tasks. This will eliminate any tension between you and your pet and allow someone with expertise in the field to use special tools and techniques to make your cat feel more at ease during the process. It will also help you avoid getting injured or injuring your cat. 

Cat grooming should become a normal part of your routine with your pet. Starting at an early age should make it easier. Contact Robinwood Kennel at (859) 781-2352, or visit their website for a full list of pet boarding and grooming services.