How to Trim Cat Hair
Longhaired cats tend to get in trouble from time to time with mats and stuff getting stuck in their fur. Often, they cannot be brushed away and need to be cut out. This can be accomplished by either cutting out the specific problem or by shaving the entire cat, depending on the severity of the issue. You can take the cat to a veterinarian or a groomer or you can do it yourself with hair clippers.
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Instructions
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Use a good quality human or pet electric clipper. It is best to purchase a quality grade clipper because less expensive brands tend to pull hair and generate heat, both of which will be uncomfortable and even painful to the cat. Better grade clippers are quieter and cause the cat less distress.
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Put the cat on a waist-high, stable surface. Placing the cat on a high surface allows you the best leverage and will slow the cat's attempts at escape.
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Gently scruff the cat and turn on the clippers. Scruffing a cat is a great way to control a cat without hurting it. Gently pull up the excess skin along the cat's neck and grasp firmly, but don't pinch. This process gives you complete control over the cat's head and its instinct is to relax. When possible, tuck the body of the cat under your arm and try to only expose the section you will be working on.
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Begin shaving. The best way to do this is to start at the mat. Start clipping at the base of the mat next to the skin. Gently work the clippers under the mat, freeing it from the cat's body a millimeter at a time, but do not force the clippers through the hair. This process will ensure that the cat's hair is not pulled. Cut away the hair gently, but quickly, as the cat's patience will wear thin quickly.
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Examine the cat's skin for infection or injury.
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Tips & Warnings
You may need to attempt this process in stages if the cat is severely matted. If the cat is extremely uncooperative, taking her to the veterinarian for sedation can be helpful.
Cats can become extremely agitated and cause their owners harm if they become frightened. If your cat shows signs of agitation, fear or aggressiveness, take him to a professional.
