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Cat Grooming - More Than A Good Licking
Cats are magical, arent they? Theyre graceful. They can leap tall armoires in a single bound. They can clean themselves without any help from us humans.
Okay, maybe not all cats are graceful. And maybe not all cats can leap tall armoires in a single bound. But, they can clean themselves without our help, right? Right? Actually, while our feline friends spend a great deal of time grooming themselves, once in awhile they really do need our help sprucing up. And, a good brushing once a week helps remove the loose fur that eventually can cause hairballs in your cats stomach as she licks herself clean.
Lets take a look at some areas where you can help in your cats hygiene.
Your Cats Coat
You can either use a brush or grooming glove purchased from a pet store to brush your cats fur. Some pet combs with teeth set closely together also help to remove fleas from your cats coat. Be sure to use soft, gentle strokes while brushing, so as not to harm her skin.
Short-haired cats are generally easier to brush, while some long-haired cats may need extra attention, especially if the fur is matted. Ive heard of some people using baby powder (or other powders designed for cats) to make the fur smoother for brushing out mats. You can also break up matted cat fur with scissors, and then brush them out, starting on the outside of the mat and working your way inward. For severely-matted fur, its best to take your cat to a professional groomer or your veterinarian.
Should you bathe your cat? Normally its not necessary, but if your cat is unusually dirty it may be necessary. If you dont know by now, most cats dont like taking baths, so it may be something you want to leave to a professional groomer. If you want to take on the task yourself however, just be sure to use a shampoo specially formulated for cats. And, avoid getting water in your cats face or ears. Cats dont like that. And, you know what happens when cats dont like something. Thats rightthey have claws.
Your Cats Claws
Were all familiar with our cats claws. In a word, theyre sharp. And, they need regular grooming, every two weeks, particularly if you want to lessen scratches on your and your furniture. I happen to be squeamish when it comes to trimming my cats claws; therefore, I leave that task to my vet and his assistants. But, if you dont mind the challenge, just be sure you follow some safety rules.
1. Buy a pair of nail clippers designed for cats. Dont use the type of clippers meant for humans as these can split your cats nails.
2. Become familiar with the two parts of your cats nail. The thin part with the point at the end, and the thick, pink part near the paw (the quick). Clip only the thin part, not the thick part. The thick part contains blood vessels and nerves. (See why Im squeamish?) You can also look at the nail and clip beyond the point where it starts its downward curve. Remember that cats claws are retractable, so you will have to extend the nail by squeezing the toe between your forefinger and thumb.
Your Cats Teeth
Should you brush your cats teeth? Absolutely, and the sooner you begin the habit with your cat, the better. You can use a childs toothbrush, a finger brush, or one designed for a cat. Be sure to buy a toothpaste designed for cats, as human toothpaste may be harmful to your cat. If youre just beginning to brush your cats teeth, you might want to start slowly with one or two teeth, working up to the whole mouth. Brushing your cats teeth is a good habit to get into, and can help save on dental bills later in your cats life. Its also good to have your cats teeth checked once or twice a year by your veterinarian.
Practicing good hygiene with your cat not only makes your kitty look good, but also makes her feel better. And, if she feels better, you feel better
About the Author:
Shari Hearn is a writer and creator of http://www.cattraining411.com .
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