Cats are the ultimate grooming machines, but longhaired cats require a little extra maintenance to keep their luscious fur looking fabulous. Grooming is not just about maintaining a healthy and shiny coat but also helps to prevent health issues such as hairballs, matting and infections. Here are a few grooming tips for your longhaired feline friend.
Brushing and combing
Regular brushing and combing are essential for longhaired cats to prevent matting and tangles. But not all brushes are created equal. There are several types of brushes to choose from, including slicker brushes, bristle brushes, and even grooming gloves. Experiment to find which brush works best for your cat’s coat, get advice from a professional groomer, and speak to the breeder to find the ideal grooming tools for your cat.
Regularly brushing and combing your cat creates a great bonding opportunity and can help reduce shedding.
Shedding
Let’s be honest, longhaired cats can leave quite a furry trail around your home. While you can’t prevent shedding altogether, regular brushing can help reduce the amount of fur that ends up on your clothes and furniture. You can also choose a vacuum cleaner specifically designed for pet hair and cover your furniture with blankets or slipcovers. On a lighter note, it gives you an excuse to bring out your best lint roller.
Baths and water
Most cats hate water, and this is mainly due to water absorption, which is a common issue for many cats, including longhaired breeds, and can make them feel heavy and uncomfortable. While some cats are self-grooming experts and never require a bath, others may benefit from the occasional soak. Whether your cat needs a bath depends on her grooming habits, any skin conditions, or incidents involving dirt or mess. If you do decide to bathe your cat, make sure to use cat-specific shampoo and offer plenty of treats to create a positive experience.
Fleas and parasites
Longhaired cats are particularly susceptible to fleas and other parasites, so it’s important to check for them regularly. You may not see any traces of fleas on your cat because she grooms herself so extensively, but this does not mean they aren’t there. Look for signs like excessive scratching or visible fleas, ticks and flea dirt (dried blood and flea poo).
If you do find fleas or other parasites, don’t panic! There are plenty of treatment options available, from topical solutions to flea collars. Don’t forget to treat your home as well because fleas can quickly spread to carpets and furniture. Speak to your vet for the best solution for your cat.
My cat hates grooming
Approaching a cat who is not keen on grooming can be a bit tricky, but there are a few strategies that you can try:
- Start slowly Start by just introducing her to the grooming tools you plan to use, like a brush or comb. Let her sniff and investigate the grooming equipment to become familiar with it. Gradually work up to using the tools on her fur. Once she gets used to it, you can increase the grooming time.
- Use treats Cats are highly food motivated, so using treats as positive reinforcement can help make grooming a more positive experience. Reward your cat with treats before, during and after grooming sessions to help her associate grooming with something positive.
- Make it a positive experience Grooming should be a positive and relaxing experience for your cat. Use calming scents and soft music to create a restful environment for grooming. Speak in a soft, soothing voice to help your cat relax.
- Seek professional help If your cat is still not keen on grooming despite your efforts, consider taking her to a professional groomer. Professional groomers have experience working with cats who are not used to being groomed and can offer tips and tricks to make the process easier for your cat. They can also help identify any underlying health issues that may be causing your cat to avoid grooming.
Remember, patience and persistence are key when it comes to grooming a cat who is not keen on the process. With the right approach and plenty of positive reinforcement, even the most resistant cats can learn to enjoy grooming.
Professional groomers
While grooming your cat at home is essential, taking your longhaired cat to a professional groomer can give kitty a spa day and offers many additional benefits. Professional groomers have expertise and experience in identifying potential health issues such as skin irritations and fleas and ticks that you may not notice during regular grooming. They also have the right equipment to give your cat a thorough grooming, including trimming their fur and nails, which can be challenging to do at home.
You can do it
Grooming longhaired cats can be a hairy situation, but with the right tools and techniques, you can keep her looking and feeling her best. So, bring out the brushes and get ready for some quality grooming time with your purrfect companion.
