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Grooming
Your Cat
Many
people are fascinated by cats' grooming habits. When
cats groom, they try to reach every part of their fur
with their tongue.
While self-grooming keeps your cat's coat clean and
soft, it also performs other vital functions for your
feline:
• Removes dead hair and skin
• Stimulates blood circulation
• Tones up muscles.
Cats generally do not need to be groomed by their
owners, although it is helpful to assist your cat in
caring for its coat. All cats can benefit from frequent
brushing and the social interaction as well.
Short-Haired
Cats
Most
short-haired cats do not need as much grooming as their
long-haired companions. As mentioned, frequent brushing
has its rewards. Remember the following when grooming:
• Many short-haired cats like being brushed with a
soft bristle.
• Be careful not to scratch your cat's skin by
brushing too hard.
• You may wish to rub your cat with a cloth after
brushing. This will help bring out the natural color in
its coat.
Long-Haired
Cats
Even
though long-haired cats will groom themselves, frequent
inspection will help you determine when you should
assist them. This will prevent them from developing
matted fur and skin problems.
To groom a long-haired cat use the following guidelines.
• Use a wide-toothed comb to remove mats and dirt
• Remove dead hair with a wire brush
• Brush talcum powder on your cat's coat to separate
the hairs
• A toothbrush will help you brush around your cat's
face
• Praise your cat often during the grooming process
and take frequent breaks if your cat becomes upset.
Trimming
your Cat's Nails
Cutting
your cat's nails can at first seem a daunting task, but
after doing it once or twice it's actually quite simple.
To trim your cat's claws, press its paw gently so the
whole length of each claw is exposed. Using a quality
nail trimmer designed for use on cats carefully cut just
the tip of the nail avoiding the quick (the pink area).
If you are unsure of where the quick is, hold your cat's
paw up to the light. You will be able to see the portion
of the nail that you can safely clip without nicking the
quick.
If you have any questions whatsoever about trimming your
cat's claws or feel uncomfortable doing it, ask your
veterinarian, veterinary technician or groomer to show
you how.
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