Mary Allen
Cats are very clean animals. Nevertheless, cat owners can and should support their house tiger in the care. You should pay particular attention to these 10 things.
Proper grooming is important for cat health and can prevent some diseases. The care a cat needs varies from cat to cat. For example, a long-haired cat needs more grooming than a short-haired cat. And outdoor cats may require more grooming than indoor cats. The cat may also need more grooming during the shedding process. But not only the fur needs to be cared for, eyes, teeth & Co. also need care!
Don’t Impose the Care
It is best for cats to learn from an early age that care utensils are not a reason to panic. Don’t force the cat to groom you, but show it in a playful way how good the brush is!
Cotton Swabs Are Taboo For Cat Ears
Dirt and mites don’t belong in a cat’s ear. But cotton swabs are dangerous and therefore taboo! It’s better to wrap a paper towel around your finger and gently wipe your ear with it.
Be Careful When Cleaning Your Eyes!
Even healthy cats sometimes have sleep crumbs on their eyes. They can be easily removed with a damp paper handkerchief. But please never rub, wipe gently.
Do Not Neglect Dental Care in Cats
Dental care is often neglected in cats. But cat saliva contains calcium, which can lead to tartar build-up. Brushing your teeth helps with that. The cat should be used to it from an early age. Slowly introduce them to the care utensils. Read here how you can get your cat used to brushing its teeth. Do not use human products for cat dental care! Toothpaste for humans is taboo for cats!
If the cat refuses, you can strengthen the teeth with the food, for example, the veterinarian has special toothpaste for animals that are given in the food or tooth-cleaning food.
The Panties Are a Sensitive Area
Brushing male cats, in particular, can be a tricky business, as their buttocks are much more sensitive than females. So better brush carefully around it.
Please Don’t Get Rough When Brushing!
The cat’s back, flanks, and neck can be brushed with Furminator and the like. However, use a soft brush for sensitive areas such as the armpits and abdomen.
Do Not Remove Tangles and Knots Alone
No experiments – matted fur and knots have to be removed by a specialist. If possible, long-haired cats should be brushed daily so that no felt knots can form in the first place.
Observe the Correct Measure When Shortening Claws!
Claw trimming is especially necessary for older cats, otherwise, the claws will grow into the flesh. But never shorten the cat’s claws too far: Where the dark claw bone begins, there are already nerves! It is best to have your vet show you how to trim their claws before attempting it yourself. If you are unsure or if the cat refuses, you can go to the vet every time.
Regular Full Bath? No Thank You!
Most cats don’t like water very much. Bathing the cat is usually not even necessary because cats are very good at cleaning themselves. Also, a bath can irritate the cat’s natural skin oils. If your child comes home covered in dirt, you should of course help him clean up. Try it with a (damp) towel first. A lot of dirt can also be removed with this. A bath is often not necessary at all.
You should only bathe the cat if the cat cannot be cleaned otherwise. But then you definitely need a special shampoo.
Don’t Forget the Inner Cleanliness!
Outwardly, the cat appears healthy, but parasites are often invisible guests. Regular flea and worming treatments should be a matter of course, especially for outdoor cats!