For cat lovers, a beautiful and healthy coat is one of the most wonderful things about having feline friends. But it also helps you keep an eye on
your kitty's health and well-being. How? And what should you do to help maintain a great-looking and strong coat? Here's the lowdown on kitty's furry layer.
Recognize Potential Symptoms
Often, issues with your cat's coat are symptoms of other health problems.
If they aren't grooming their fur enough to keep it clean and soft, for instance, they may suffer from arthritis or even have dental issues that make doing so uncomfortable. Grooming too much could be an indicator of pests or a nervous tic. Patchy fur might indicate that there are nutrition issues, such as a lack of fatty acids.
As you play with your cat, feel the fur itself to determine if the cat is keeping it appropriately groomed. If it seems oily, thinning, or excessively
flaky, talk with your veterinarian about the possible causes. Similarly, feel what's going on under the fur to check for lumps, hidden wounds, or
warm patches. Always discuss concerns with your veterinarian.
Learn Your Cat's Needs
Cats are very self-sufficient, and they tend to care for their own coats most of the time. But you play an important part by identifying where the cat needs assistance. Rather than overdoing general grooming, this allows you to target areas where you can do the most good for your cat.
As you pet and snuggle with your kitty, notice the quality of their coat. Is it long or short? Is the hair stiff and wiry or is it soft and silky? Does it
become easily matted, particularly in specific areas? Is it routinely oily or dry? Knowing your cat has wiry hair, for instance, can help you find the
right grooming tools to reach stiff hair at the base of their coat before it mats.
As you do with your own skin, keep alert for changes. As your cat moves through life, those changes can help you better address areas they
aren't able to groom sufficiently.
If it's an older cat or the cat has gained weight, for example, they may not be able to reach all areas to groom themselves properly. If it's an
outdoor cat, matting and debris could be a real issue after playing outside. Winter-weather issues - including snow, ice, chemicals, and lack of
exercise - can also be dangerous.
Do Routine Grooming
As soon as you get a kitty, quietly engage in some routine grooming as both a bonding exercise and a health aid.
Get the cat used to simple and comfortable brushing in a non-threatening environment. Complement that with a fine-toothed comb or mat tool
when needed to get down to dead hairs nearer the skin. Make brushing a part of your snuggle time and don't force the issue so that grooming is a pleasant experience for all. Include some play and maybe even a few treats as well.
Bathing isn't usually needed for healthy and young cats. But it still sometimes becomes necessary if something can't (or shouldn't) be cleaned off their coat through traditional means.
If you need to bathe the cat, use warm water and a shampoo specifically designed for cats. Human shampoo could cause further skin issues. If
your kitty has never been bathed or you're nervous about giving a bath, this may be a job for a professional groomer.
Regular wellness checkups are a key part of maintaining a healthy pet and a healthy coat. Your veterinarian will check for hidden problems and
run tests to determine the causes for any symptoms you or they have noticed. At Angel Pet Hospital
, our experienced medical professionals will
serve as partners in your pet's health and quality of life. Make an appointment today to learn more.
