A silky soft and shiny coat is the mark of a healthy cat that has been well looked after by its owner. Are you interested in learning how to care for your cat’s coat going forward correctly? Here’s how to go about it.
Brushing Your Cat
If your cat has long or medium-length fur, you will need to brush it a lot more frequently. Loose hair can leave a cat’s coat looking dull, and may also lead to matting. Ideally, you will use two different types of brushes to ensure the best results. The first brush should be a metal comb, which is excellent for getting rid of persistent knots. The second brush should be one with bristles, which can aid in lifting away the loose fur. Strive to brush your cat every single day. If you have a short-haired cat, you will usually be able to get away with doing it a few times a week.
Your Cat’s Diet
Your cat’s diet will have a significant and direct effect on their fur. The key is finding a good quality cat food that boasts a decent balance between carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and which is chockfull of all of the necessary vitamins and minerals. You may need to spend a little more, but the results will be worth it. Not only will your cat’s coat be shinier and healthier, but his digestive system will be too! If you are uncertain about which food is best, consult with an experienced, reputable veterinarian, like those at heartandpaw.com.
Watch their weight
Cats that are overweight tend to exhibit lackluster coats compared to their slimmer counterparts. Many experts believe that this is because the heavier a cat is, the more difficult it becomes to maintain regular, consistent grooming habits. Not only does it become way too much effort, but the cat may also struggle to reach certain areas of its body, leading to matting and a dull appearance. Would you believe that a whopping 60% of cats in the USA are overweight?
Avoid bathing
You will only need to bathe your cat on very rare occasions, such as when they have rolled in something smelly or something has been spilled on them accidentally. In all other circumstances, bathing should be avoided. Cats can groom themselves and, quite frankly, have an intense dislike of water. Bathing your cat too often can lead to dryness and tangles, never mind plenty of stress on both your parts!
Try some home remedies
If you would like to boost the shininess of your cat’s coat after an unavoidable bathing session, there are a few home remedies to put to the test. Some cat owners swear by the power of an egg. Use the egg yolk if your cat has shorter, darker hair, and the white of the egg if they have longer or lighter colored hair. Mix either part of the egg with a cup of warm water and apply the solution to your cat’s fur after shampooing. Massage and leave for a few minutes before rinsing off with some warm water.
Here’s to a shiny coat and a happy, healthy feline!
