As many cat loves know, cats are pretty independent animals. While most cats are fully capable of grooming themselves, here are some situations that might make it difficult for your kitty to keep herself clean.
A messy cat: If your cat tripped into some paint, mud, or other sticky/smelly substance, it’s time for a bath. Since cats use their tongues to groom themselves, you don’t want them trying to lick off loads of paint or sap from their bodies.
Overweight cats: Cats that are overweight often have a difficult time grooming their backsides. Without the ability to groom, your cat’s fur can quickly become matted and dirty.
Elderly cats: Whether it’s because of joint pain or just the lack of will to persistently groom, older cats often need help with grooming to keep themselves clean.
Long-haired cats: Long-haired kitties have a lot more fluff to maintain while grooming. They are also more prone to develop hairballs. Helping them out by providing extra brushing can help keep them clean and happy.
Brachycephalic cats: Persian and Himalayan cats fit into this category. Often called “short nosed cats,” these breeds can have difficulty grooming themselves. (Just an added difficulty to all of that fluff these breeds have.)
It’s best to get your cat accustomed to bathing and regular brushing as young kittens. If your older cat wants nothing to do with your grooming help, it will be safest for you to consult a professional groomer who has experience with cats. A professional groomer will be able to inform you how often your cat should be fully groomed (which depends on your cat’s lifestyle and any underlying medical conditions), and brushing your cat 1-2 times per week at home can help their skin and coat health while also reducing the number of hairballs they have.
How often do you groom your cat? Let us know in the comments below!