Cats regulate their grooming on their own for the most part, but that doesn’t mean their owners can’t help out. The following guide explains when to groom your cat, as well as what implements to use to ensure a safe, comfortable experience for your pet. 

How Often Should I Groom or Bathe My Pet?

You should brush your cat’s coat gently. If your cat has short hair, once a week should suffice. However, cats with medium to long hair should be brushed once a day to prevent knots and matted fur.  

While cats frequently groom their own coats, the constant licking causes hairballs to form in their digestive tracts. Regular brushing removes some of the excess hair, which prevents your cat from ingesting it during self-grooming sessions. In terms of bathing, you can wash your cat’s coat every six months, or more often if their coat is long and covered by oil or grease. 

What Grooming Tools Will I Need?

All cat owners should have the following tools in their pet care arsenal:

• Brushes and Combs:  A wide-toothed comb can help work out tangles, while a soft-bristled brush removes excess hair. No matter what, make sure you’re using gentle strokes and a soft touch when brushing your pet to eliminate discomfort. 
• Grooming Mittens or Gloves: If your cat is upset by brushes or combs, a grooming mitten is a strong alternative. These mittens mimic the natural petting motion that cats enjoy, while also allowing owners to do away with shedding hair. 
• Nail Clippers: When clipping your cat’s nails, make sure you’re only trimming the very top white portion of the nail. Many cats are not overly fond of having their nails clipped, so be sure to approach the task very carefully. 

Are you looking for a boarding facility that also pampers your cat while you’re away? Pet owners from Rochester, NY, and surrounding areas can turn to Evergreen Kennels when in need of a home away from home for their pets. Additionally, this kennel also offers complete grooming service during stays, which includes nail clipping, hair brushing and trimming, and ear cleaning. Call (585) 293-1920 today to learn more about their grooming services. You can also visit the website for the full listing of services.