Do you remember how comforting it feels to pet a cat? That’s hugely due to their soft and silky hair, and while this gives us pleasure, did you know that cats enjoy this too? This is because it replicates the sensation of being groomed, and as any cat lover would know, cats are very keen self-groomers! Of course, even with all that grooming, cats do need a little assistance every now and then, which is where you, the cat owner, comes in.
It is fundamental to know why it is important to invest in regular cat grooming. Aesthetics aside, grooming is also very beneficial to your cat, health-wise. Cat grooming involves these few elements — brushing, bathing, shaving, and nail trimming, and will help your cat be free from digestive problems caused by hairballs, discomfort from skin conditions and unwelcomed substances from the fur, tissue damage induced by matted fur, as well as pain due to ingrown nails.
Now that we’ve established the importance of cat grooming, what should you expect when bringing your feline friend to a professional groomer? Naturally, cat owners would be very concerned with how their cats will take to this, especially with how lengthy and monotonous the sessions may be. It would be best if you could slowly get your cat accustomed to the process at home with brief sessions with a cat brush, for example, just so your cat can enjoy it in comfort.
All right, how often do you need to take your cat to the groomer? A general rule of thumb is once every few weeks, though again, this is dependent on the length and thickness of the fur. Obviously, longer-haired pets are groomed more frequently compared to their shorter-haired counterparts, and is generally done once every 4 to 6 weeks and once every 8 to 12 weeks respectively. Caring for a pet also means opening your wallet a lot more, but cat grooming should cost around RM30 to RM100 per session, and rests on factors like your furbaby’s size and amount of fur. You could always keep an eye out for cat grooming services near you and find one that’s right for you!
Apart from all that, here are some more cat grooming tips to take note of the requirements before your first appointment, such as vaccine and veterinary requirements. It’s different for different vets, so be sure to call and check with them first to make any necessary arrangements. Next, have your cat’s coat condition examined so your vet can determine the grooming options and services suitable for your cat based on the delicateness of the skin, matting in the fur, and your cat’s response towards being touched in different places. Cats are not huge fans of change in their routine and environment, so perhaps you could also arrange a tour of the facilities with your cat so they are mentally prepared as they familiarize themselves with the place.
Hopefully, these answer your doubts and concerns, and know that you and your pet will benefit from a consistent cat grooming routine, and it is never too early or too late to start. Remember, your cat will thank you for giving them a happier and healthier future.
