Cat Grooming Problems

For the most part, cats are meticulous groomers, licking themselves clean as soon as any bit of food or dirt sullies their fur. However, some breeds require additional grooming by their owners to alleviate occasional or specific problems. Grooming problems in cats often involve fur that tangles easily.

Fur

Your cat may require only weekly brushing if she has short hair and sheds little, but if her hair is longer, daily brushing can reduce the formation of mats, commonly found under the armpit, on the underneath side of the neck and beneath the ears. If your cat's fur is long and tangles easily, she might develop hairballs in her stomach if she swallows a lot of fur while licking herself. A slicker brush, found in pet supply stores, will keep her coat in top shape when used every day.

Claws

A cat uses his claws for climbing and for self-defense. When claws are allowed to grow unrestricted, they may become ingrown, causing inflammation and pain. Providing a scratching post will allow the cat to exercise his claws and wear down the long tips. Alternately, the cat's claws can be trimmed by hand. After a demonstration by a veterinarian, the cat owner may elect to trim his cat's claws at home.

Bathing

Some cats never need a bath, but if your cat suffers from a flea infestation or his coat smells, it might be time to clean him up. Only shampoo formulated for a cat or tearless baby shampoo should be used. Kittens younger than three months of age should not be bathed with flea shampoo unless a veterinarian approves. Cleaning around the cat's eyes may be easier if you use a cotton-tipped swab dipped in warm water.

Drying

Blow drying a just-shampooed cat will make his fur fluffy and attractive, but cats don't always like the sound or feel of forced air. Although it takes longer, only cool air should be used. You may place the cat in a small pet crate while the blow dryer is directed onto his fur. Just before he is dry, he should be removed so the final drying can be accompanied by gentle brushing for an even coat.

Shaving

When a cat has numerous mats, sores or parasites, shaving off her entire coat may be best answer. A small mat may be removed by gentle brushing with a slicker if the cat is agreeable, but this process is not painless, and it is often easier and kinder to shave the entire cat. Shaving is done by electric clippers; an assistant is recommended to help hold the cat.

References

• Guide to a Healthy Cat; Elaine Wexler-Mitchell, DVM; 2004