How to Groom Kittens

Short-haired cats need less grooming than long-haired cats, but they still require regular care.

When they are young, kittens are groomed by their mothers and learn to keep themselves tidy from her. To keep your kitten looking clean and make sure it stays healthy, however, you need to groom it as well. Doing so allows you to spend time together and helps familiarize your kitten with a routine you'll share for the rest of its life.

Things You'll Need

• Wire brush
• Treats

Instructions

1. Check the kitten's eyes and mouth for any sign of discharge. This indicates a respiratory infection, which is common in kittens.

2. Put the kitten on your lap, talking to it and stroking it gently.

3. Show the kitten the brush, allowing it to sniff the brush and become accustomed to it. If the kitten attacks the brush, look away from the kitten but keep it in your lap. A few repetitions teaches it that attacking the brush causes you to lose interest in interacting with the kitten.

4. Stroke the brush gently over the kitten's back and sides. For the first few days, do this only for two or three minutes.

5. Give the kitten a treat after you are done grooming it.

6. Brush the kitten for longer increments of time every day, expanding the grooming to include the feet, tail and belly.

Tips & Warnings

• Brush your kitten every day. This prevents matting and makes the kitten accustomed to your touch.

References

• Pet Place: Grooming Your Kitten
• Purina: Grooming Your Kitten