A soft-bristle brush will work for short- or medium-haired cats. A wire-bristle (“slicker brush”) or specialized cat comb will work best for long-haired breeds. The brush shouldn’t get snarled or require tugging. Using a comb to get down to the skin will help get the loosened undercoat to the surface. Finish with a quick rubdown using a chamois or cloth. Avoid the face and ears while brushing, and be careful near the sensitive stomach area. [2] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source If the cat does not tolerate grooming with a brush or comb, try using grooming gloves, which feel more like stroking. These gloves are especially handy since you can just take off all the hair and dispose of it in one go. [3] X Research source Mini cat-grooming vacuums are another option. The noise they produce may frighten your cat, though. You may have to start with the vacuum in another room, and gradually bring it closer over the course of a few days or weeks before the cat accepts the device being used on them. Using treats can be a good idea to create a positive association.
Watch for tail or ear twitching. If you see either, stop brushing, praise the cat and/or offer it a treat, then let it go. If you continue brushing, your cat may bite or scratch you.
To help your cat become accustomed to a bath, start by filling a bathtub with three to four inches of warm (not hot) water. [4] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source For the first few times, just put the cat in the water so that just its feet get wet and let the feet soak for a short period. Gradually build up to getting more of the cat’s body wet each time. Always build up slowly to avoid frightening your cat and understand that some cats may never tolerate a bath. When you’re ready to bathe your cat, begin by wetting its fur. Use a soap-free, oatmeal based pet shampoo to lather the fur everywhere but the cat’s face. Rinse the fur thoroughly, again, avoiding the eyes, nose, and ears. [5] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Dry the cat with a large towel.
These can replace baths entirely for uncooperative cats. Or, you can use them between baths if the cat gets dirty or starts shedding. [6] X Research source Alternatively, to quickly remove loose fur from the top coat, use a paper towel or cloth dampened in warm water.
A visit to a professional groomer may be necessary for cats with long, thick fur or for cats that react aggressively to grooming. Consider having a long-haired cat shaved down once or twice a year to decrease shedding.
Look for wet cat food that lists specific meats (like chicken, beef, or fish) as the first two or three ingredients. Because cats need animal-based protein, these are vital to a healthy cat’s diet. [7] X Research source Dry cat foods and low-quality wet foods contain a lot of grains or other carbohydrates like wheat, corn, and soy. These ingredients are not as nutritious for cats as meat-based proteins. They may even cause allergic or digestive issues that lead to dry skin and shedding.
You can tell if you cat is overweight if you can’t feel its ribs without pressing. If you don’t see a narrowing waist in front of the hips when looking at the cat from above, this is another warning sign. [8] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source A veterinarian can give your cat a specific diet plan if needed. You can also try reducing your cat’s intake to the recommended amounts and refraining from giving treats. Play with your cat regularly so it gets enough exercise.
You can find omega fatty acids in wet cat foods that contain salmon oil or flax oil. You can also buy omega fatty acid supplements that you can feed your cat separately or mix into its food. Your vet is best able to judge appropriate diet modifications. But, adding omega fatty acids should be safe if you choose a supplement made for cats and don’t go beyond the recommended amount.
Look for dark flea feces near the base of the tail. If you discover fleas or flea feces, treat your cat for fleas. Then, keep your cat on a monthly flea-control regimen. Ask your veterinarian to help you choose a flea-control product. If you’re unable to trace the source of the itching, take your cat to the vet. In addition to ectoparasites, your cat could have hypersensitivity to pollens, molds, or grasses. It could also have food allergies. All of these can contribute to itching and shedding. [10] X Research source
You can use both natural and commercial sprays to deter a cat from going (and then shedding) on surfaces you don’t want it to. [11] X Research source
Cats generally prefer sleeping in places that are safe, partially hidden, and warm. Try to find a location with those features and set up the cat bed there. [12] X Research source Store-bought cat beds may smell of unfamiliar places and materials, which cats find deterring. If your cat seems hesitant to lie in the bed, try covering it with a cloth or shirt that smells like you or your cat. [13] X Research source
If there’s a particular spot on the furniture your cat frequents, toss a throw, mat, or pillowcase over that spot.
Keep a lint roller in your purse or car so you can de-fur your clothes after leaving the house. A circle of duct tape with the sticky side out can also work as a makeshift lint roller.
