Did you know that cats spend up to a third of the time they are actually awake grooming themselves? Our feline pals are very clean, which is one of the many reasons they are such beloved and popular pets. However, your furry little diva will still benefit from being brushed. A local Dahlonega, GA vet offers some tips on brushing Fluffy in this article.

Benefits

Your cat may not look dirty, so why is brushing her important? First and foremost, it will get that dead fur out of her coat. Dead hair and dust interfere with the insulating qualities of Fluffy’s fur, making it harder for her to stay warm in winter or cool in summer. Plus, you’ll be capturing that hair before your pet swallows it. Less dead fur on your cat means less dead fur in your cat .. which ultimately means less hairballs. Regular kitty grooming sessions are also a good way for you to monitor your pet’s condition. You may notice things like lumps, bumps, or sore spots early on. Since early treatment can make a huge difference with pets, this is also important. Finally, brushing your feline buddy is a great way to bond with her, and help her feel loved.

Timing

Don’t try brushing Fluffy when she’s focused on catching that catnip mouse or sitting in her favorite window seat watching squirrels. Pick a time when she’s feeling relaxed and sleepy. (Given that kitties spend most of their days sleeping and relaxing, this probably won’t be too difficult.) If your furball is a lap cat, wait until she’s settled in for some cuddles. Start by just petting her, and then incorporate the brush. Talk to your feline friend, and offer lots of ear scritches. Ideally, you want her to feel pampered. When your cat decides she’s had enough, just let her go.

Longhaired Cats

Super fluffy kitties need some extra help with grooming. They have a lot of fur to keep up with! Fluffy may also get mats, particularly around the ‘armpits.’ You’ll need a special detangling brush to address these. If you find a bad mat, don’t pull too hard. You could hurt your furry friend! You may need to clip it out. Use round-end scissors to carefully remove it. Ask your vet for more information.

Is your kitty due for an appointment? Contact us, your Dahlonega, GA veterinary clinic, today!