Cat Grooming – Step By Step Guide By The
Experts On How To Do Nail Care For Cats
For nail care, begin with very short sessions, and do not try to
brush at first.
Put some kitty toothpaste on your finger and run it briefly
along your cat’s teeth and gums. Pet and praise her.
Increase the amount of time that you spend each session until
you can rub the outer surfaces of all your cat’s teeth and gums.
Cats seldom develop periodontal problems on the inner edges of the
teeth because their raspy tongues clean those surfaces.
Then it is time to introduce the brush. Be patient and keep
tooth cleaning sessions short. Cuddle or play with your cat
afterward. In addition to home dental care, your cat should have an
oral examination along with her annual physical, and your vet may
recommend more frequent exams and other procedures.
Most cats seven years old and older should have dental exams
every six months. Your vet also may recommend full mouth or partial
x-rays to identify problems under the gum line, and your cat may
need periodic professional cleanings under anesthesia.
Although anesthesia poses some risks, new short acting
injectable anesthetics are much safer than older anesthetics. Ask
your vet what kind of anesthesia he uses, how easy it is to
reverse, and how your cat will be monitored while under it.
You can also do cat grooming as a bonding time. Grooming your
older cat regularly requires a little effort, but the benefits are
more than just good looks. Your cat will be healthier, and she will
be happy to have you help her with the personal care she can no
longer manage herself.
Most cats do not need to be bathed often, but if a bath is
necessary, talk to your senior in a soothing voice to help her
remain calm. Advancing age will bring changes in your cat’s skin
and fur.
Brushing will improve circulation and keep her fur smooth and
shiny. Best of all, you will share special time together, and you
will both be happier for it.
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