Grooming A Shorthaired Cat

Supplementing the self grooming of a shorthaired cat is really only absolutely necessary if you are showing. But an extra groom, say twice weekly, does help keep loose, dead hairs under control and off the furniture.

It is also a good opportunity to check for fleas, or the onset of any ear or dental problems. In addition, the activity is pleasurable for both cat and owner.

The process is, of course, far simple than for a longhaired cat. Grooming aids can include a metal comb with round tipped teeth, a soft, natural bristled brush to settle the fur, a brush with stiffer bristles, a rubber brush is essential for Rex Cats, as it does not scratch the skin, and a polishing cloth of silk or chamois leather.

Start the grooming session by gently stroking the cat to relax it. Use the stiff brush first, brushing very gently along the lie of the fur, to loosen the dead hairs and dirt.

Brush the whole body, but be especially gentle in delicate parts around the ears, armpits and groin, and under the belly and tail. Next, use the metal comb to extract the dead hairs.

It may set up some static in the coat, causing fur to clump together or the guard hairs to develop a wispy life of their own. This will be corrected with the soft bristled brush, and a final polish with the chamois leather, velvet or silk.

A dry shampoo – It is rarely necessary to wash a shorthaired cat unless it is a pale colored exhibition cat, or unless the cat has become greasy from sitting under a cat, for example.

Some exhibitors give their shorthairs a bran bath to remove excess grease, dirt and dandruff. Warm a good five or six handful of natural bran flakes in the oven to a comfortable hand hot temperature.

Rub these over the cat, avoiding face and inner ears, working the hands thoroughly through the coat, then simply brush it all out with a soft brush. A coat that is predominantly dark will take on a shine immediately, pastel blues and creams may take a couple of days before their texture and shine reach the peak of perfection.

When grooming is finished, it is time to rest and watch a friend finish off his tail. Cats often groom together if they have the opportunity, it is an important social activity. A soft bristled brush settles the fur after any static triggered by the use of a metal comb.