The cat's hair is one of the parts that we most often admire about this feline. It is bright, has magnificent colors, and although the texture can be smooth or rough, we will almost always see it clean.. In fact, you will only neglect it if you are very ill or very old, and when that happens, we will have to take care of your hygiene even more.
In the meantime, to help him and, incidentally, avoid the formation of terrible hairballs in his stomach, every day we have to provide him with a series of cares so that his coat is healthy inside ... and also outside. Thus, We're going to explain how to care for your cat's fur.
Brush it daily
Cat hair is like that of humans: every day some fall out and others emerge. The furry on its tongue has tiny hooks that serve to separate the meat from the bones of its prey, but also to be able to remove a lot of dead hair. The problem is that in spring and especially in summer, quite a lot of hair falls out, so when grooming, she swallows much more than usual..
To avoid unnecessary risks, It is very important to brush your dog at least once a day if it has short hair, or twice a day if it has medium or long hair.With what? With carding brushWhen finished, it is highly recommended to use the FURminator, which is a stiff-toothed comb specially designed to remove virtually all dead hair.
Technique and adaptation tricksNever brush against the grain; start with areas they like (chin, back) and alternating hand-brush so that it associates it with petting. Keep sessions short with treats. During shedding seasons (spring and autumn) increases the frequencyespecially in indoor cats that do not "shed" hair in bushes like outdoor cats.
Types of tools: slicker brush for loosening dead hair, wide-toothed comb for knots in long coats, natural bristle combs to distribute oils on short hair and FURminator type deshedders For dense undercoat (choose the size according to coat length and weight). For very sensitive cats, test rubber gloves or soft bristles.
Health and hairballsBrushing reduces trichobezoars; accompany it with malt paste or “hairball” diets, and offers cat grass to facilitate expulsion. Warning signs include coughing without results, frequent vomiting, or constipationCheck if they appear.
Feed him in the best possible way
Surely you've ever heard that "we are what we eat." As well. This is something that also applies to the cat. If you give one high quality foodIf your pet's diet is rich in animal protein and free of grains and by-products, you can be sure it will have optimal growth, and their hair will shine with health..
These types of foods are more expensive than those we can find in supermarkets (a 7,5kg bag can cost around 45 euros), but the amount you have to give is much lower, so it ends up being worth it .
It adds key elements that make a difference: proteins provide essential amino acids such as taurine, the omega-3 and omega-6 They promote supple, radiant skin, and minerals such as zinc y biotin They strengthen the follicle. Consider including wet food to improve coat hydration and adjust the ration to age, activity and body condition (the Being overweight makes self-grooming difficult).
For dull coats, flaking, or excessive shedding, review the diet and seek veterinary advice before introducing any new foods. Supplements (salmon oil, biotin) to ensure safe doses.
If he's sick or older, hand him wet towels
A cat that is very sick or that is already very old and has stopped grooming as often as it used to, you will need us to take care of your hygiene. In the event that we did not, it could get worse to such an extent that it would be abandoned, it could even die.
Therefore, It is advisable to give them wet wipes in a room where we have turned on the heating.. If it is very dirty, we can clean it with a dry shampoo for cats. Then we will brush it to remove all the dirt.
Also, check gently skin, ears, and difficult areas (groin, armpits) to detect knots, dandruff, or wounds. If there are very tight tanglesAvoid using scissors and go to a cat groomer or veterinarian for safe detangling; full shaves are usually not necessary and expose the skin.
To bathe him or not to bathe him?
Cats are very clean and usually They do not require a bathroom.You might consider an occasional bath if there is dermatitissticky substances, dermatitis, or noticeable dirt. Use Specific shampoos for cats (pH suitable, without strong perfumes), lukewarm water, rinse thoroughly and dry completely. If water stresses you out, opt for dry shampoo.
Evita products for humans y powerful fragrancesA calm environment, non-slip surfaces, and short sessions reduce stress.
Parasites and skin health
The fleas and ticks They irritate the skin and worsen the coat. Check the coat regularly and apply feline antiparasitic treatments Use as recommended by your veterinarian (pipettes, collars, or sprays that are safe for cats). Avoid compounds that are dangerous for felines, such as permethrin and always follow the manufacturer's guidelines.
If you observe redness, itching, dandruff or bald spotsThere may be allergies, infections or other pathologies: consult for diagnosis and treatment.
Nail trimming and haircuts
Long nails can get caught in the fur and cause pulling or injury. Trim them with feline nail clippersby cutting only the transparent tip and rewarding afterward. If you don't feel confident, ask for professional help.
Regarding the cloak, except in specific situations, no need to cutLightly trimming problem areas can help, but avoid shaving and no trimming of whiskers (Mustaches). Never try to undo knots with scissors near the skin.
Hydration, rest and stress
A well-hydrated cat has a healthier coat. fresh water and consider waterfall fountains If he drinks little. A place comfortable for sleeping and a predictable environment reduce the Stresswhich can trigger over-grooming or neglect of personal hygiene.
Get him used to the brush patiently, integrate grooming into calm moments, and reinforce with toys and scratching posts to enrich their daily life. For hairless cats, clean with wet cloth and use veterinarian-approved moisturizers.
With these tips, your cat's fur will look clean and healthy. Keep a brushing appropriate to their coat typea whirlpool bath, diet rich in animal protein y calm routinesThis will reduce knots and hairballs, protect their skin, and strengthen your bond every day.
