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People think that cat health and grooming are two different things altogether. This fact is untrue. A properly groomed cat will be a healthy cat. If you do not practice proper grooming on your cat, the cat may become dirty and unkempt. Hairballs can restrict food intake and cause vomiting and a cat that receives a brushing will have less loose hair, thus less hair intake when they groom themselves.

If the cat has longhair, hairballs are the least of the problems, tangled and matted hair requires shaving or cutting in order to relieve pulling of the skin. Matted or tangled hair may hide fleas other parasites on your cat. This causes cat health and grooming problems. If your cat is accustomed to grooming by you, the cat will show affection when the job is completed. Regular grooming provides for a healthier and beautiful looking cat.

If a cat has claws, these need clipping to allow for walking with ease. These claws get long and catch on carpeting and furniture without intention from the cat. Grooming of the nails needs early training, cats do not take lightly to having their claws touched, so start out early or a vet may help you as well. In order to make the claw come out for clipping, press the pad of the food and the nail should pop out. Only cut the tip, and do not cut down to the pinkest vein.

Teeth, eyes and ears need grooming and cleaning as well. The ears need to be check for ear mites along with wiping them lightly with a damp rag or q-tip to remove any dirt that is a hiding place for parasites and fungus. In addition, proper medication is needed if the cat has this parasite. The teeth need cleaning with a rag and salt or baking soda to clean the plaque and keep the teeth strong and free from rotting. Wipe around the eyes with a damp cloth to keep free of any watering or sleep around the eye.

Many groomers prefer the soft bristles to a wire brush because it soothes the skin and does not irritate or cause open skin sores. A cat will appreciate a soft brush where as a dog might need a wire brush. Always brush the same direction as the hair lies. Some pet stores also have self-grooming brushes that cats can rub on and groom themselves, this does not take the place of human grooming that is vital to cat health and grooming practices.

If your cat health and grooming plan does not include the important things to keep your pet happy and healthy, you need to start practicing good grooming so your cat can live a full and healthy life without any problems that may result from improper care. Cats as well as dogs enjoy the special attention they receive when you brush them and tend to look forward to this special time you give them while you groom them.