Those of us who live with cats know that they can be very affectionate and exceptional companions. However, if they have hairs, it is not difficult for us to know where they have been, right? Fortunately, we can do something or other to prevent them from releasing so much and, incidentally, keep your fur soft and untangled.
Let us know how to brush a cat's hair in the most effective and beneficial way for both our feline and us.
The trick is to get used to it
If you have a kitten, the ideal thing is to start getting it used to the brush or comb you are going to use today. But if your cat is already an adult, don't worry, you can also get it to accept being brushed by following a few simple steps. clear guidelines and with a good dose of patience.
- Show him the brush: Let him smell it, inspect it, and become familiar with it. This will reduce his distrust of the object.
- Positive association: offer him cat treats or his favorite food while you move the brush near him. This small gesture will make him associate brushing with something pleasant.
- Kind words: Use a sweet, calm tone of voice to praise your dog as he interacts with the brush. Phrases like “good job” or “good boy/girl” will reinforce the positive experience.
- Soft start: Start by brushing your cat gently over his back. As he relaxes, move on to other areas such as his legs, tail and belly. It is important to reward your cat after each brush stroke.
- Congratulate him when he finishes: Once you've finished brushing, pet your cat and praise him. This reinforcement is essential to make your cat associate brushing with something pleasurable.
Some essential items for cats as specific brushes facilitate this process.
Why is it important to brush your cat's hair?
Brushing is not only a matter of aesthetics, but has multiple benefits. health benefits of your cat. These include:
- Reducing hairballs: Cats ingest a lot of dead hair when grooming themselves, which can form balls in their stomach. These balls are harmful and can cause vomiting or even serious health problems.
- Healthy skin: Brushing stimulates blood circulation and evenly distributes the natural oils in your dog's coat, keeping it shiny and healthy.
- Greater bond with your pet: This moment of dedication strengthens the relationship with your cat, making him feel loved and protected.
- Detecting health problems: While brushing your cat, you can easily spot parasites, wounds or abnormalities on its skin.
How often should I brush my cat?
Brushing should be part of our daily routine if we have a cat with hair, whether long, semi-long or short. The ideal frequency depends on the type of coat and the specific conditions of each cat:
- Shorthair cats: Brushing 1-2 times a week is enough to remove dead hair and keep the coat healthy.
- Semi-longhaired cats: They need daily brushing, especially during shedding seasons.
- Longhaired cats: These cats require 2 to 3 brushings daily to prevent the formation of knots and tangles.
Don't forget that during shedding, both in spring and autumn, cats lose more hair than usual, so you should increase the frequency of brushing during these periods. Learn more about how to reduce hair loss of your cat.
Tips according to the type of fur
It is important to choose the right equipment and apply specific techniques depending on the characteristics of your cat's coat. Here are some tips:
- Shorthair cats: Use a soft-bristled brush or rubber glove to remove dead hair. Brush in the direction of hair growth to avoid discomfort.
- Longhaired cats: They require a brush with long, stiff bristles to penetrate the coat. In case of knots, use specialized sprays or a wide-toothed comb.
If your cat has very matted fur or severe knots, it is advisable to see a professional to remove them safely. Shaving should only be considered as a last resort.
What should I do if my cat won't let me brush him?
Some cats may be reluctant to be brushed, but with the right approach this resistance can be overcome:
- Distraction with rewards: Offer irresistible treats during brushing to keep your child's attention.
- Short sessions: It is better to do several sessions of a few minutes than one long session that may overwhelm the cat.
- Wrap your cat: If necessary, use a towel to securely immobilize him and prevent him from escaping.
And remember, never force your cat, patience and respect are key to getting him to accept brushing as part of his routine.
Brushing your cat is more than just aesthetic care: it is a way to maintain its health, strengthen your bond and prevent long-term problems. With the right tools, time and dedication, this activity can become a special time for both of you.