If your cat’s fur is severely matted, then seek the help of a professional to remove the matted fur. It is traumatic to the cat to have large matts removed and it is often kindest to sedate the cat so that he is happily oblivious to the procedure.
If your cat is not used to being groomed then he may resent being brushed. Try to help him understand it is a pleasant experience and keep the first sessions short so that he doesn’t lose patience. Try brushing your cat right before you feed him so that he associates being brushed with a food reward afterwards. This may increase his tolerance levels for being brushed. [4] X Research source Keep in mind that brushing can be a bonding experience between owner and pet. But if your pet is agitated or stressed, he may start to associate negative feelings with you instead.
Use a towel. If it is essential to groom the cat right away and he is agitated, try wrapping him in a towel with only the dirty area left out. Having his eyes covered can help to calm him down. Plus, having his teeth and claws inside the towel will protect your hands from bites and scratches. Hold onto your cat’s neck scruff. Some cats will calm down if you hold onto their scruff, which is the skin on the back of a cat’s neck. When a mother picks her kittens up by the scruff it has a calming effect, and this persists in some adults. However, do not pick the cat up by the scruff, merely grasp a handful of skin over his shoulder and hold it firmly while he rests on a flat surface. Work at a height that is comfortable for you. It might be easier to clean your cat is you put him on a high tabletop or on top of a dryer. This will prevent you from having to bend and strain your back. Help the cat to feel secure by placing a blanket or towel on the table top so that he is less likely to slip and slide around.
Make sure to check for fleas while combing your cat as well. Part the fur and look for small shiny brown insect about the size of a sesame seed. Check for flea dirt as well. These look like little specks of dirt. If you find something suspicious put the speck on damp cotton wool. If it is flea dirt the moisture will rehydrate the dried blood and you will see an orange halo. Run your fingers over the cat’s body to feel for lumps and bumps. If you find a new lump, or an existing lump is growing or seems to bother your cat when you touch it, take your cat to see a vet as soon as possible.
Start by combing the hair on your cat’s tummy and legs. Then comb the fur on the back, combing it upward and toward her head. Comb out the tail too. [8] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
If you do not feel comfortable removing the mat yourself, contact a groomer who is experienced with cats or contact your veterinarian. If you do not have clippers, use scissors but with care. The safest method is to slide a comb between the skin and the base of the knot. Then cut above the comb on the knot side. The comb shields the skin and makes it less likely you will nick it. If you cannot get a comb under the knot then this is a job for a professional groomer or the vet tech, and do not attempt it yourself.
Blot tears with a cotton ball or soft cloth. Use a moistened piece of cotton to remove crusted debris or other dried or thick material around the cat’s eyes. Make sure to use a separate cloth or cotton ball for each eye to help prevent the spread of infections between the eyes. [11] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Avoid using eye washes or drops in the eyes themselves unless directed to do so by a veterinarian. [12] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
To clean facial folds, use a piece of moistened cotton or a moist soft cloth to gently remove tears and other debris in the area. [14] X Research source Make sure to get the skin between the folds as well as the skin on either side. Chronic moisture is a concern here, so make sure to use a damp rather than wet cloth. Gently pat the cleansed area dry after wiping.
Ask your vet to recommend a liquid ear cleaner, which is generally available at a pet supply store. Use a small amount of cleaner on a cotton ball. Fold the cat’s ear back and use the cotton ball to wipe away dirt. Do not clean the ear canal, as this can cause trauma and/or infection. Do not put cotton tips down into the ear canal, because if the cat moves suddenly you could damage the ear or cause pain. Never put water down into the ear as this softens the skin and makes ear infections more likely.
See your vet if the skin in your cat’s facial folds is red, darkened, seems irritated or the cat is losing hair. Your cat’s ears may be irritated if he is scratching them a lot. You might also find evidence of ear mites. Talk with your vet if you have concerns about your cat’s ears.
Clean the area once a day or as needed.
If you don’t want to bathe your cat yourself, you can take him to a professional groomer.
If you are nervous about trimming your cat’s nails, you can take your cat to a groomer or to your veterinarian to have them trimmed.
Cat shampoo: Don’t use dog shampoo. A plastic cup or pitcher Towels Washcloth Rubber mat
Speak soothingly to your cat as you do this to help keep him calm. Reassure him and be gentle.
If you need to clean around your cat’s behind, wear a pair of latex or vinyl gloves.
Depending on the cat’s temperament, this procedure may require sedation by a veterinarian.
