SKIN AND COAT CARE IN CATS
General Information
By following basic guidelines, you can easily care for your cat's
coat and skin. Certain general principles apply to the care of
all cats.
1. The coat and skin reflect your cat's general health. A healthy cat has far fewer skin and coat problems.
2. Parasites, such as fleas and intestinal worms, affect the skin and coat. Follow the doctor's suggestions for parasite control.
3. Proper nutrition is essential for a healthy skin and coat. Discuss your cat's diet with the doctor.
4. Routine grooming not only prevents skin and/or coat problems, but also enables you to detect problems before they become extensive.
5. Most cats seldom require bathing. If bathing is necessary, use mild shampoo, rinse well and dry quickly with towels and a hair dryer.
6. Both long and short haired cats require regular grooming, but a long-haired cat should be combed daily without fail. A short-haired cat should be brushed at least once a week. A good quality stainless steel pet comb should be used to gently comb through the hair. Special attention should be given to areas where mats are likely to form - behind the ears, under the front legs, on the stomach and back legs, and under the tail. Some important "do's and don'ts" follow:
DO'S
1. Do train your cat to accept regular grooming, beginning
when it is a young kitten. Make the experience as pleasant as
possible for the cat by being gentle but persistent.
2. Do keep the nails trimmed, check the teeth for tartar and examine
the ears, eyes, anal region and skin while grooming your pet.
If you find problems, consult the doctor.
DON'T
1. Don't lose your patience while grooming. If the task becomes trying, stop and begin again later. Your cat will resist being groomed if you become angry and impatient.
2. Don't neglect mats in your cat's coat. Tease the mat apart gently and comb it out with as little pulling as possible. Always remove mats before bathing, as soaking a mat will only tighten it. If a mat must be cut out with scissors, be very careful not to cut the cat's skin. Sometimes long-haired cats become so matted that the entire coat must be clipped.
The information on this site was obtained from Whisker Watcher at www.wpvq.com