A cat’s tongue is designed like a mini hair brush, to remove dead hair and distribute oils throughout the fur. However, sometimes they need a little extra help to prevent fur balls forming. Longer haired breeds need much more grooming to prevent their fur becoming matted and knotted.
Hill’s Pets recommend grooming is introduced at an early age; your kitten will then become used to it and will actually begin to enjoy it. Grooming will also give you the opportunity to closely inspect your cat or kitten’s coat for fleas, ticks and other nasty creatures.
Ticks are small parasites which latch onto your cat’s skin around the head and neck area. They can be black, brown or red, and will look like a wart. If you do notice a tick when grooming your cat, it is important to remove it as soon as possible. Don’t rush to pull the tick out though, as leaving the mouth part behind can cause infection and inflammation, making the area very sore. Your vet will be able to advise you on the appropriate tool for removing ticks and will show you how to do it properly. When it has been removed, check it to ensure no part has been left behind. If you think it has, seek advice from your vet.
Kitten grooming can become a great way to bond with your cat. Cats love the attention that comes with being groomed, so use the time to check claws, teeth and in the ears. Start this gradually as some cats aren’t fond of this bit, and get them used to it.
