Groom Your Cat
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Basically, grooming your cat is not difficult, unless your cat is the skittish type.
Some cats do not like too much stimulation, and may become a little agitated if brushed too long or too rough.
In fact, some cats may lash out and scratch after being brushed or combed for a few minutes.
It seems that they love it, but it just becomes too much for them, somehow.
If you know your cat well enough, try these simple steps to help remove some of his shedding fur.
He will thank you, because otherwise he will be licking all that fur, swallowing most of whatever comes loose on his tongue, then vomiting up massive fur-balls, and that cannot be very comfortable!
What is needed & how to begin:
Most people have an old hair brush and comb (clean, of course!) around the house, and those items work quite well for home-grooming of cats.
Begin by using a hair brush (one that has bristles that are not too stiff or too sharp).
Brush your cat from the top of his head to the tip of his tail, in smooth, light strokes.
Do not bear down too hard, as this may cause his skin to become irritated.
Clean the brush periodically to keep already removed fur from being re-deposited on your cat.
Brush lightly all around his body, or as much as you can access without forcing him into positions he may not appreciate.
Continue brushing until you feel you have removed most of the easily-removed fur.
Continue with combing:
Next, use the comb, preferably one with fairly fine teeth.
Holding the comb at a relatively flat angle against your cat's body, lightly stroke from head to tail.
You will notice that the comb may become stuck at some points, which usually means there is thicker fur under the top layers that is holding the comb back.
Do not pull too hard, as that may cause pain and irritation to your cat.
Instead, try to lift the comb a little and pull through that area with several light strokes to remove any fur loose enough to come out with light pressure.
We don't want to strip the fur off your cat!
Understanding your cat:
As you carry out these grooming steps, your cat may let you know that she has had enough by simply trotting away.
Some cats may let you groom them for hours; however, they do need to keep their fur-coats intact, so use discretion!
Some cats will actually roll-over for you to get at their undersides, but use extreme caution there!
Cats are quite sensitive to tummy-tickling, but most cat owners already know that!
If you are grooming her tummy, stroke very lightly to avoid over-stimulation or injury.
Finishing up:
Once you have finished grooming your cat, it is a good idea to stroke your hand along her fur to help lift any remaining loose fur that may have settled back onto her.
Her newly-groomed fur coat should feel smooth and silky.
The rewards:
Most cats will thank you many times over for your help and attention to their grooming needs.
After all, I would think they may get a little tired of doing it all with their tongues!
Cats are very fastidious about their personal hygiene, so you must also respect that as you groom them.
Be as gentle as you can, and, most of all, be sure to talk with your cat while grooming her.
She will normally respond with those unmistakable love-eyes, which will reassure you that she appreciates what you are doing for her!
Good luck...and happy grooming!