Do Cats Groom Themselves: Breaking Down The Myth
Cat’s are known for being self-sufficient and low maintenance. They want attention on their own terms. They don’t need frequent walks or a large yard. And you’ve been told that they even clean themselves, so you don’t need to worry about the groomer unless you have show cats!
You may need to think again about that last sentence. Professional grooming isn't just for show cats.
While cats do groom themselves, they still need regular appointments with a professional groomer. You might be thinking to yourself “but I read about this, and cats definitely clean themselves.” Cats certainly are clean animals, but they can’t maintain a healthy coat and skin just by licking themselves. Let’s dive into the important reasons why cats need regular, professional grooming.
Don’t Cats Clean Themselves?
Cats spend an awful lot of time licking themselves. But if they aren’t actually getting themselves clean, what is actually happening?
If your cat has ever licked your hand while being affectionate, you’re familiar with the raspy feeling. A cat’s tongue is covered in tiny barbs to remove dust and loose hair so they are getting clean on the surface. Licking also helps them distribute their natural oils to help keep their coats healthy.
Grooming behavior isn’t just about cleanliness. Since cats do not have sweat glands anywhere except their paws, they lick themselves to stay cool in hot weather. Cats who live together often groom each other as a form of bonding. Grooming is a way for a cat to soothe himself after a stressful event. In fact, cats who suffer from a great deal of anxiety may excessively groom themselves.
It’s obvious that grooming is an integral part of feline behavior. So much so that their tongues have developed the tiny barbs to aid in the process! But their grooming rituals don’t quite cut it.
So Why See A Groomer?
Cats can keep themselves tidy, but a groomer can do things for your cat that your cat can’t do for himself. And we don’t mean putting cute bows on their collar and spritzing them with cologne. Your cat can’t tell you in words if their skin is itchy or if they’ve been swallowing more hair than usual. Chewing may remove some fleas, but it also tears up their delicate skin.
Hairball Prevention- Cats shed… a lot. Licking helps to remove loose hair. But where does all that hair go? Your cat swallows all of the hair that they lick off of their body. It can get caught in your cat’s stomach causing a trichobezoar, better known as a hairball. This pesky, gross ball can either end up on your floor at 4am, or even worse, cause a dangerous blockage in your cat’s system. Regular grooming appointments will reduce the amount your cat sheds and prevent gooey and possibly dangerous hairballs.
Removes Mats and Tangles- A cat’s tongue may have barbs, but these barbs don’t act like a comb or hairbrush. Although more common in long-haired cats, even short-haired cats can develop tangles if not properly combed. Mats can be painful and lead to detrimental skin conditions. Regular grooming sessions will stop mats before they even start.
Old Cats Can’t Reach- If you have a senior cat or a cat with mobility problems, they may not be able to clean important areas. Uncleaned behinds can lead to mats, a smelly cat, and skin problems. If you have to chase your cat with a wipe after a trip to the litter box, then they definitely need a standing appointment with a groomer.
Soothes Skin Conditions- If your cat has a skin condition from allergies, parasites, or other reasons, regular grooming should be a part of their treatment plan. Grooming will remove irritants and prevent buildup from topical medications that make your cat’s coat a greasy mess.
Noticing Skin Problems- A groomer is not a medical professional, but they can tell when an animal’s skin is showing abnormalities. And if your groomer is familiar with your cat, they may notice skin changes that you may have overlooked.
Parasite Prevention- Your cat’s groomer will see signs of ticks or fleas before they reach critical stages and can even stop an infestation in its tracks. Even on a flea and tick preventative, it is possible for resistant fleas to make a home on your cat, and your groomer can let you know if your cat's flea protection seems to be failing. Pro-Tip: It is considered faux pas to bring your flea-ridden or tick-infested cat into the grooming salon. This is why mobile grooming, like here at The Dapper Cat, can be so beneficial for these particular cases. We come to your home!
Nail Trims- Every cat owner knows why a cat’s paw is sometimes called a “murder mitten”. To keep those talons under control, a groomer knows the best way to restrain your cat and clip those claws. This is something you could do at home, but why not leave this one to the professionals?
How Often Should Your Cat See A Groomer?
Your cat doesn’t need to keep a standing weekly appointment with their groomer. In general, every four to six weeks is perfect for long-haired cats while eight to twelve weeks is ideal for cats with shorter hair. Every cat is different, and if you find your cat's coat seems to do better with more frequent sessions, there’s nothing wrong with finding a schedule that works best for their needs.
A good home grooming routine should be kept in-between visits. Combing your cat several times a week not only helps cut down on shedding in between appointments, but it is also a great way to bond with your cat.
Your cat can’t keep a perfectly groomed coat and trimmed nails all on their own. They need regular appointments with a professional groomer as well as a good home routine to maintain their shiny, healthy, happy coat.
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