How to Groom a Persian Cat

It's best to begin Persian grooming early.

Many Persian cat lovers will never undertake the grueling process of preparing a Persian cat for the show ring, but will soon find that their long haired feline companions require extra work to groom properly. These tips can help you groom a Persian cat in a way that shows off their coveted looks and improves their health.

Things You'll Need

• Cat shampoo and conditioner
• Wide-toothed grooming comb
• Finish brush
• Cotton balls and swabs
• Towel
• Paper towels

Instructions

1. 

   Comb your Persian cat thoroughly with a wide-toothed comb to remove tangles and with a wire brush to remove loose hair that is prone to tangling. Remove any knots prior to bathing. Slide a fine-toothed comb under the knot and cut with scissors placed flat and parallel against the comb to avoid nicking the skin.

2. Help your pet adapt to the sound and feel of water in a gentle manner prior to bathing. When ready, begin by pouring a large cup full of warm water over their body, rather than using a spray nozzle--unless your cat doesn't mind. Start with the tail and work your way up to the neck quickly, but avoid the face and ears.

3. Use gentle conditioning shampoo designed for cats as Persians tend to have ultra delicate skin and increased skin sensitivities. Saturate your cat's hair thoroughly with water and work shampoo from the neck down, along the back, tail, and lower body. As you groom a Persian, use the minimum amount of shampoo needed to prevent prolonged rinsing.

4. 

   Wrap your Persian in a towel, tucking legs in comfortably, and allow the excess water to be absorbed. Soothing words help here. This is also the time to clean the face and ears, while protecting you and your Persian cat from injury during a struggle.

5. Use a wet warm wash towel to groom your Persian's face. For eye drainage buildup keep a warm wet compress on the eye for several seconds, wipe with a paper towel and remove gradually. Repeat as necessary or use eye cleaner solution.

6. Groom your cat's ears with a cotton ball dipped in baby oil or ear mite solution as needed. For hard to reach areas, use a cotton swab avoiding the inner ear canal.

7. Comb out the Persian with a wide-toothed comb working from the ends to the roots. Blow dry hair on a low setting or let hair air dry in a warm environment. Use a finishing brush on dry hair to finish the Persian grooming process.

Tips & Warnings

• Help your Persian become acquainted to bathing at young age if possible as they are more like to adapt to the whole grooming process, making it easier for them and you.

• Try a rinse or spray on conditioner to remove tangles.

Resources

• Doctors Foster and Smith Pets website