Does your kitty have long fur? While all of our feline friends are super cute, long-haired kitties can be absolutely adorable. If you have a super fluffy kitty, you may have to take a few extra steps to keep your feline pal purring and healthy. Read on as a local Marietta, GA vet discusses caring for fluffy cats.
Grooming
Long-haired kitties often need a bit of help with grooming. Fluffy may get mats or tangles in her fur, particularly under her legs and around her tail. Brush your cat gently, paying close attention to these spots. Pick a time when Fluffy is feeling relaxed and a bit sleepy. (Since kitties spend the majority of their time sleeping, that shouldn’t be difficult.) Offer lots of praise and compliments, so your pet knows she’s being pampered. When your ball of fur has had enough, let her go, and continue the next day.
Trimming
Kitties with long fur sometimes get mats or fecal matter stuck around their bottoms. You may want to trim your cat’s fur in that area. Just be sure to use scissors with rounded ends, which are safer.
Hairballs
It isn’t uncommon for our feline friends to have hairballs. Long-haired kitties can definitely be quite prone to them. Hairballs definitely are no more fun for Fluffy than they are for you! They are more than a yucky nuisance, however: hairballs can actually cause intestinal blockages, which can be quite dangerous! Ask your vet to recommend a hairball remedy.
Parasite Control
Fleas can make all of our furry friends uncomfortable. Plus, they can also spread viruses, and even transmit other parasites. Make sure to keep up with Fluffy’s parasite control products.
Diet
Be sure to feed your kitty a good, nourishing diet. Giving your feline friend high-quality food will help keep her pretty fur soft and shiny. Ask your vet for specific nutritional recommendations.
Bathing
While it isn’t absolutely necessary, some people do like to bathe their cats. If you choose to give Fluffy baths, just be careful not to over-bathe her. Otherwise, you could strip the oils from her fur, and end up with a frizzy pet! Use lukewarm, not hot water, and choose shampoos made just for kitties.
Do you have questions or concerns about your cat’s health? Call us today! As your local Marietta, GA animal clinic, we are always here to help!
