FB Pixel

!Call Now! Button Tablet

(920) 261-4020 Online Booking

!Call Now! Button Desktop

Call Now! (920) 261-4020 Online Booking

!Call Now! Icon

Caring for a Longhaired Cat

August 15, 2016

Do you have a long-haired kitty? These extra-fluffy furballs are definitely super cute! Long-haired kitties do have some specific care needs, however. Read on as a local Oconomowoc, WI vet discusses caring for a long-haired kitty.

Grooming

Cats are very good about grooming themselves, and keeping their pretty fur soft and shiny. Taking care of all that fur can be a lot of work for your pet, however. Give Fluffy a helping hand by brushing her regularly. Be gentle, and incorporate lots of cuddles and compliments, so your feline buddy knows she’s being pampered. Fluffy cats often get tangles around their armpits and on their behinds, so pay extra attention to these areas. You may also want to clip the hair around your cat’s bottom, so she doesn’t get dirt or fecal matter stuck to her fur. For safety purposes, use scissors with rounded tips. Ask your vet for more information.

Shedding

Long-haired kitties don’t necessarily shed more than other kitties: fur thickness and type both play major roles in how much a cat sheds. That said, keeping Fluffy indoors will help contain her shedding. This is because cats that go outdoors are more exposed to seasonal weather changes that trigger shedding. Plus, your furball will also be safer and healthier living indoors. (Tip: use a squeegee or rubber dish gloves to get cat fur off your carpets and upholstery.)

Litter

Long-haired kitties can sometimes get litter stuck in their fur. You may want to avoid using clay or clumping litters. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Diet

Proper nutrition will help keep Fluffy’s fur soft and shiny, and can even reduce the amount of dead fur your feline friend sheds. Omega-3 oils and fatty acids are particularly good for your kitty’s coat. Ask your vet for specific nutritional recommendations.

Hairballs

Hairballs are no more fun for Fluffy than they are for you! Aside from the yuckiness factor, hairballs are a concern because they can occasionally cause serious medical issues. Ask your vet to recommend a good hairball remedy.

Parasite Control

Fleas and ticks are no fun for any animal, but, with all that fur to hide behind, they can really make long-haired kitties uncomfortable. Keep up with Fluffy’s parasite control.

Do you have questions about your fluffy cat’s health or care? Contact us! As your Oconomowoc, WI animal clinic, we are here to help.