Kitties are very diligent about keeping up with their beauty regimes. Fluffy will carefully groom herself every day, keeping her fur nice and clean. However, that doesn’t mean your pet can’t use a helping hand. Read on as a Forest Hill, MD vet discusses grooming your cat.

Bathing

Although you don’t have to bathe your cat, you can if you want to, as long as your vet doesn’t object. Just be sure to use warm—not hot—water, and a shampoo made specifically for kitties. Also, take care not to get suds in Fluffy’s eyes, ears, nose, or mouth.

Brushing

Brushing your feline pal will benefit her in several ways. First and foremost, it will remove dead fur and dander from her coat. This will help keep her cooler in summer and warmer in winter, as dead hair reduces the insulating quality of her coat. Plus, your kitty will be more comfortable, as dead hair, mats, and tangles are quite itchy and unpleasant. This is also helpful in preventing hairballs: the more hair you get with the brush, the less your cat will swallow. Brushing is also good for your kitty’s circulation. Last but not least, this is a good way to spend time with your pet, and make her feel loved and pampered.

Eyes

Some of our feline buddies get tearstains. These are not only unsightly, they can also smell bad and, in severe cases, can irritate Fluffy’s skin. Use a clean, damp cloth to gently wipe away fresh tears and eye gunk. If your furry friend’s tearstains are severe and/or if she has only recently developed this issue, consult your vet. This can be caused by infections or blockages, which would require treatment. Your vet may also recommend that you use a product specifically for removing pet tearstains.

Claws

If your feline friend lives indoors, you can clip her claws. This is painless and temporary, just like a human manicure. It can also keep Fluffy from scratching up your furniture! We don’t recommend this for kitties that are allowed outside, however, as they need their claws for defense. Ask your vet to demonstrate proper techniques. Or, just make an appointment for your kitty to get a pawdicure.

Please reach out to us, your local Forest Hill, MD pet clinic, anytime. We are happy to help with all of your cat’s grooming and veterinary care needs.