There are myths about cat grooming that, like any other, get handed down from one person to the next. If grooming were just a matter of aesthetics, it wouldn’t be such a huge concern, but as many of you know, keeping your pet clean and well-groomed regularly is crucial to their well-being.
Well-Known Myths About Cat Grooming
Each of the many pet owners worldwide has a different perspective on their pets. Many of these judgments concern how their pets should be groomed and cared for, and they can vary from person to person. Groomers for pets often encounter clients with false assumptions about caring for their cats.
If you want your feline friends to have the healthiest, happiest life possible, you must stop these grooming myths.
Myth 1: Cats despise water.
Some felines enjoy bathing in the rain. In contrast, some breeds thrive when exposed to water. Generally speaking, cats can be trained to tolerate, if not even like, getting washed. The most straightforward approach is to bathe your kitten as soon as possible. However, with frequent, low-stress grooming, even an elderly cat may feel fantastic.
A waterless bath or “dry shampoo” is not a substitute for a bath; brushing and blow drying can exacerbate skin conditions and matting. Remember to give some thought to their oral hygiene as well. Visits to the pet dentist from an animal hospital like Thomasville Veterinary Hospital are essential to prevent significant dental problems, as most cat owners know, and cats are infamous for hiding pain and discomfort.
Myth 2: Human shampoo is suitable for cats.
There is a big difference between what goes into shampoos designed for humans and those designed for pets. This is due to the many distinctions between cat skin and human skin. Primarily, animal skin is more acidic than human skin. Finally, unlike animals, which only have sweat glands on their foot pads, humans have them all over their bodies. It’s no exaggeration to say that the skin is the body’s first defense against immune system threats.
The natural oils and moisture barrier on an animal’s skin may be stripped away by human shampoos, leaving the animal vulnerable to infection. A veterinarian offering cat grooming services is a good option if you cannot care for your pet’s appearance.
Myth 3: Mats often don’t cause any trouble.
Mats are not only ugly but also a health hazard. Uncomfortable lumps of fur that a cat can’t get away from make for a bad night’s sleep. Over time, the mats will become a thickly coated mess that will make it difficult for the cat to move around, trap moisture and oils, and prevent air from reaching the skin, all of which can cause infections, bruises, and ulcerations.
If the mats form in the cat’s privates, the cat’s pee can seep under them and cause serious wounds. While you’re concerned about your cat’s appearance, it’s essential to have them on a regular wellness plan from a trusted veterinarian for routine care.
Bottomline
Tales told in myths have a way of sticking with people. It takes work to disprove their claims. When someone next presents you with a grooming misconception, do your best to educate them on the facts. In this way, you can ensure the well-being of your pets and make educated choices for their care. Think about these guidelines the next time you clean up after your pet.
