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Cat hair care

Alexey Kryvenko, medical expert
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025

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A good wash will keep your kitty looking (and feeling) great.

Cats are extremely meticulous by nature. You probably know this because you've seen your kitty wash herself several times a day. She can generally take care of herself just fine, but sometimes she needs a little help from you.

Make grooming as enjoyable as possible - for both of you

Grooming your cat should be a pleasant experience for both of you, so do it when your cat is relaxed, perhaps after play or a meal. You want your cat to have pleasant memories of the procedure, so don’t lose your temper. If you’ve had a hard day or are in a bad mood, it may not be the best time to groom your cat.

The first grooming sessions should be short - only 5 - 10 minutes. Gradually increase the time until your pet gets used to this routine. You should also accustom the animal to being picked up. Make it a rule to pet the cat completely - including the ears, tail, belly and back, and especially the legs!

And remember, a little patience can go a long way. If your cat is very tense, stop the session and try again when she’s calmer. Unfortunately, most cats don’t like taking baths, so you may need someone to help you. And don’t forget to praise your cat and give her a treat after the session.

Combing the wool

Regular brushing or combing sessions will help keep your pet's coat in good condition. This procedure removes dirt, distributes natural oils throughout the coat, prevents tangles, and keeps the skin clean and free of irritation.

If your cat has short hair, you only need to brush its fur once a week:

First, use a metal comb to comb her fur from head to tail.
Then use a bristle or rubber brush to remove dead and loose hairs.
Be especially careful when brushing the chest and belly.

If your cat has long hair, it needs to be brushed daily:

First, comb the belly and legs. Be sure to untangle all knots.
Then brush the coat upwards using a bristle or rubber brush.
To comb the tail, part it down the middle and comb the fur on each side.