The Importance of Pet Grooming
Properly grooming your pet is about more than just having a clean and good-looking cat or dog. Grooming is a necessary part of maintaining the physical health and overall well-being of your pet.
Ideally, grooming should start while your pet is still young so he or she will be comfortable with the process. However, older pets can be trained to tolerate grooming with time and patience.
Fur Brushing Stimulates the Production of the Fur’s Natural Oils
Brushing is a major part of grooming that benefits all cats and dogs but is especially vital for long haired breeds. Brushing the fur helps get rid of dandruff, dirt, and dead hair. This decreases the amount of hairballs your cat or kitten ingests.
In addition, brushing prevents matting and tangles that could lead to pain and infections. It also stimulates the production of the fur’s natural oils, which gives the coat a healthy sheen.
Careful but thorough brushing can help you identify abnormalities or possible problem areas, such as dry patches, bald spots, fleas, ticks, and other parasites. This can help to catch these issues before they become serious.
Regular Nail Clipping Has Many Benefits
Regular clipping can prevent your pet from injuring him or herself, any other pets in your house, or the people they come in contact with. Plus, doing so could mean less damage to your furniture and carpets. Nail clipping can also help your pet avoid ingrown nails as well as joint pain, such as arthritis.
Teeth Brushing and Dental Care Prevents Disease
Regular teeth brushing and oral care can help prevent periodontal disease and bad breath in your dog or cat. Toothbrushes and toothpaste specifically made for animals are available. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations and instruction on techniques of proper dental care.
Hair Trimming and Eye checking
In some breeds the hairs surrounding the eyes can become overgrown. These should be regularly trimmed to avoid discomfort or infection. With all pets you should make sure their eyes are bright and clear.
If you notice anything abnormal on checking you should get your dog or cat checked by a veterinarian.
Regular Ear Inspections Will Help Your Pet
Ears should be clean and free from odor. If you see anything that could indicate an infection or an infestation of parasites, take your pet to a veterinarian right away.
Some breeds are more prone to having ear infections and parasites so it pays to check this regularly.
Tips on How Often Your Dog or Cat Should Be Bathed
Cats and dogs shouldn’t be bathed too often to avoid stripping their skin of its natural oils, which can cause dry and itchy patches. If you’re not sure how often your pet should be bathed, ask your veterinarian.
Fur that is too greasy or oily is generally a sign that bathing is in order and of course any time your pet gets unusually dirty they should be cleaned. It’s also necessary to use shampoo that is especially formulated for cats or dogs. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.
Most basic grooming can be easily done at home. If you decide to groom your pet at home, ensure you use the right tools and products that are especially made for dogs and cats.
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