Brushing your kitten brings you closer
It is good for all kittens to be groomed. Grooming has great social benefits – your kitten spends time bonding with you and learns to trust you and accept your handling.
Grooming also has health benefits. As well as removing knots, brushing stimulates oil glands in the skin and spreads oils in the coat. Grooming allows you to notice any parasites like fleas in your kitten’s coat and detect any other skin problems.
An effective way to prevent fur balls
Hair that you brush out is hair that would otherwise be groomed and sometimes ingested by your cat, resulting in fur balls. Regular grooming in the most effective way to prevent fur balls.
Tips on grooming your kitten
Some kittens love being brushed, while others need to get used to it. If the kitten initially seems uncertain, start slowly with a very soft brush for a short time. Always stop before the kitten has had enough. If you are gentle, you will gradually gain their trust and will be able to groom them properly, including on the tummy area where the soft hair can become knotted on long- haired cats.
Regular grooming is especially important for long-haired cats, in particular Persian types, as the long, fine hair mats very quickly. Ask your breeder or vet for special advice on the best way to groom these cats.
Choose a soft bristle brush or a mitt-type groomer for short-haired kittens – they will enjoy the massaging feel. Longer haired kittens may also require a wire comb.
How to clip your kitten’s nails
Small kittens may need their nails clipped before they have access to the outside world of tree trunks and posts, to save your furniture and your arms and legs! Always provide kittens with scratching posts for their nails.
Indoor cats often continue to have their nails clipped, and older cats may need nail trimming even if they do go outdoors. So – getting your kitten used to having their nails clipped is another important job.
Get your vet to show you how how to clip your kitten’s nails.
Always use proper cat nail clippers. Start out slowly, and never stress or fight with your kitten. Get someone else to hold your kitten and gently push the pad around the nail so it extends. Most nails are clear and you can see the pink tissue or ‘quick’ that must be avoided when you cut. Take a small amount off to start, and only do one or two nails, always stopping before the kitten struggles. Reward your kitten with verbal praise and a kitten treat when you finish.