Grooming can be a big process for short-haired cats, let alone ones with longer, fuller coats. In this post, our Manchester veterinarians offer tips on grooming long-haired cats to help cleaning and trimming go as smoothly as possible.
Grooming Long-Haired Cats
Grooming cats can be challenging, especially when they don't enjoy it. It becomes even more difficult for long-haired cats as they require extra attention during grooming.
Brushing your cat every day is recommended to prevent matted fur and knots. However, if you cannot do so, our veterinary team can provide some handy tips to keep long-haired cats clean and tidy.
How to Groom a Cat With Long Hair
You can do a few things if you want to make grooming your cat's long fur easier while minimizing discomfort. Follow these tips to keep your cat looking and feeling their best:
- A wide-toothed brush can help make brushing easier.
- Use trimmers or a special mat removal brush to help clear away any matted fur.
- Once the knots are out, a fine tooth comb can help to brush and soften your cat's fur.
- The final brushing should happen with a glove or soft brush.
- Haircuts can help to keep your cat's fur manageable.
- Use products specifically made for grooming long-haired cats.
- Be sure to keep a regular grooming routine.
- Bathe your cat when necessary to clear away dirt and debris.
Professional Cat Groomers
Professional grooming services help keep pets looking and feeling neat, clean, and healthy — and as an added bonus, it saves you both time and energy. Here are some of the ways they can freshen up your feline friend:
- The groomer will trim your cat's nails and, if necessary, shave the area around your cat's bottom.
- The next step is to bathe your cat twice using shampoo to ensure thorough cleaning and removal of dirt and debris.
- The groomer will wrap your cat in a towel and carefully clean their eyes and ears.
- They will then dry your cat, clearing away any loose fur and allowing them to check for skin concerns quickly.
- At this stage, the groomer will brush, trim, comb, use de-shedding tools, and give your cat a haircut if needed.
Regularly taking your cat to the groomer can help keep their fur clean, prevent uncomfortable mats and tangles, and provide an opportunity to monitor its health. Many conditions and illnesses can affect a cat's skin, fur, and other body parts.
Grooming Tools for Long-Haired Cats
When grooming, you'll be giving your long-haired cat a haircut, nail clipping, brushing and more. It helps to have the right equipment when you go to do so. Several tools can help to make grooming your long-haired cat easier. These tools include:
- Nail Clippers
- Stainless Steel Combs
- Brushes
- De-Shedding Tool
- Mat Remover
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.