Grooming is an important element of healthcare for any dog or cat. Today, our Murfreesboro vets review the basics of dog and cat grooming and offer tips on grooming your pet at home.
Grooming for Dogs
While specifics will vary depending on each pet's needs, dog grooming basics typically include bathing, brushing, nail trimming and (depending on breed) haircuts).
Bathing
A regular bath will keep your dog's skin healthy and remove dirt and debris from their coat. That said, do this too frequently and it may result in skin irritation, increase risk of bacterial or fungal infections and damage hair follicles.
For most dogs, bathing frequency should be between once a month and once every three months. Use a shampoo designed specifically for dogs and warm water (make sure the water is not warmer than the dog's skin).
Brushing
To prevent skin irritation and matting, remove dead hair from your dog's coat by brushing it. This will also help to reduce the amount of hair your dog sheds around your house - a perpetual battle most dog owners dread!
Long-haired dogs will need brushing more frequently. While some dogs will need daily brushing, others can be brushed once a month.
Nail Trimming
Use a clipper specifically designed for dogs' nails to trim them. While a rotary trimmer can be a safer alternative, it may take more time. If you're not comfortable trimming your dog's nails yourself (or if your dog doesn't tolerate it), consider bringing your pooch to a qualified professional for a trim. Dog groomers will have the knowledge, training and tools needed to take care of this task.
Haircuts
When it comes to haircuts, different dog breeds will have different needs. Ask your vet or a professional groomer how often (or if at all) your dog will need a haircut, and how best to go about it.
To cut your dog's hair, use a good quality dog shampoo to bathe them before towel drying and brushing their fur. Trim the fur around the face and feet with sharp scissors. Use electric clippers for the rest of the body.
Grooming for Cats
Cat grooming usually involves brushing, bathing, nail and paw care, ear care, dental care, and eye care.
Brushing
Brushing your cat removes dirt, grease, skin flakes and dead hair from the coat, and it helps to stimulates blood circulation and improve overall skin condition as well.
Brush your kitty once or twice a week with a metal comb (thick or thin teeth are both fine, whatever works best). You’ll find that these regular brushing sessions are particularly beneficial as your cat ages and can't groom as meticulously anymore.
Bathing
Grooming a cat involves completing a task that most pet owners - and cats - dread with a passion. While it's not a secret that most cats hate water, you'll be pleased to learn that most cats do not need to be bathed on a regular basis. Cats can more or less take care of their own grooming, and will only need help if they get particularly filthy, or get into something sticky.
Bathe your cat using special cat shampoo and warm, but not hot water. Keep in mind that there's a good chance your cat will not want to cooperate, so be sure to shut the bathroom door before you begin, and consider wearing gloves and long sleeves.
Nail & Paw Care
It’s important to regularly examine and clean your cat’s paws and make sure they’re wound-free, and free of debris.
Trimming cat's nails can reduce scratching, and mitigate the destruction of your soft furnishings. For cats that are unwilling to tolerate nail trimming, spending some time getting them used it their paws being touched (without trimming) can help.
Dog Bathing & Grooming at Brogli, Lane, Weaver & Alexander Animal Hospital
While grooming your dog can provide a nice opportunity for bonding between you and your canine friend, it can also be a messy endeavor. When you bring your dog into our professional groomers in Murfreesboro, you can be assured we'll have the training, time and tools necessary to do the job right so you and your pet can spend more quality time together.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.