What to do to keep your cat's coat soft and shiny: tips for owners

Fur, whether short or fluffy, serves not only as a cat's adornment but also as an important indicator of its health. A healthy cat boasts soft and shiny fur, a pleasure to care for.

You can contribute to your pet's well-being in this regard. Experts from the Feline Medical Clinic blog have provided some tips on maintaining your perfectly groomed cat with a beautiful coat.

Brush your cat regularly

While the spines on a cat's tongue are generally effective at combing the coat, removing dead hairs, and preventing tangles, they aren't foolproof. Therefore, a responsible owner should always have a combing tool on hand to bring the cat's fur to perfect condition. Options range from regular brushes to furminators and special gloves. Choose the one that your cat prefers. Additionally, check your cat for fleas, ticks, skin problems, shedding abnormalities, and suspicious growths while brushing.

Give your cat a bath from time to time

Indeed, cats dislike water, and this aversion should be considered; avoid bathing them frequently to prevent excessive stress. However, it is advisable to give your purr a bath once every few months. Veterinarians recommend using special shampoos designed specifically for cats, as their skin has a different acidity than human skin. The habit of licking implies that all the care product's ingredients should be exceptionally safe.

Ensure proper nutrition

One of the primary reasons for a decline in a cat's coat quality is poor nutrition. Inadequate nutrients in their food can affect their appearance. To maintain a healthy coat, ensure that your cat's diet includes sufficient easily digestible proteins, omega-6, and omega-3. Always verify that your cat's food is suitable for its age, health, and activity level.

Keep your cat free of parasites

Various parasites can adversely affect your cat's coat. Therefore, do not neglect preventive measures against fleas, ticks, and other pests. Administer timely treatments with special medications, such as drops for external parasites and worming medications. Consult your veterinarian for appropriate choices.

Protect the animal from stress

A nervous cat may harm its own coat through excessive licking or biting. Minimize unnecessary disturbances for the animal. Provide a comfortable hiding place where it can be alone, avoid forcing contact when it shows disinterest, and refrain from startling it with a vacuum cleaner, hairdryer, or any other unpleasant objects. Sensitivity varies among pets, and it's essential to gauge stress levels.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL informed you about what foods to avoid feeding your cat to maintain its health.

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