Grooming

Healthy kittens begin to groom themselves regularly by the age of 3 or 4 months, and mutual grooming is common between cats who are close companions.

Grooming is important for both the health of your pet and the bond you share. Grooming your kitten is a nice way to spend quality time together. It will also allow you to monitor your cat's health and reduce vomiting or obstruction caused by fur balls.

Cats rarely need a bath because they groom themselves so thoroughly. If you think your kitten needs a bath, ask your veterinarian or professional groomer for advice on when a bath is needed and how to do it.

Brushing tips

• Talk to your veterinarian or professional groomer about the pet brush or comb that works best for your kitten's coat and comfort. It might be a simple plastic comb with round teeth or a baby brush
• Establish a regular location and routine for grooming
• Brush in the direction of hair growth. Brushing against the hair pattern may be uncomfortable for your kitten
• Long-haired cats should be groomed every day to help prevent painful mats and knots
• Short-haired cats may only require grooming once a week, but keep it a routine so it remains familiar and enjoyable
• To help your kitten enjoy grooming, make grooming sessions a little bit longer every day

Print lesson notes