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Understanding Your Cat's Grooming Habits

We all know cats love keeping themselves clean. You'll catch them licking their fur, rubbing their faces with their paws, and generally looking fabulous all day long. Watching cats grooming is pretty adorable too. But have you wondered why they're such dedicated groomers? Understanding your cat’s grooming habits can give you a glimpse into their health and happiness.

So why do cats groom themselves?

Cats are natural self-groomers. It’s instinctual, passed down from their wild ancestors and essential for their wellbeing. There are also plenty of benefits that come with the habit. See if you can spot their ways of grooming.

• Just like us, cats need to keep clean to avoid nasty infections. Their meticulous grooming routine helps remove dirt, debris, and even some pesky parasites like fleas.
• Cats have special oil glands, and grooming helps distribute these oils evenly throughout their fur. This keeps their coat healthy, shiny, and water-resistant. 
• Ever noticed your cat grooming after a stressful situation? That's because it releases endorphins – those feel-good chemicals that help them relax and unwind. Just watch out for hairballs.
• Cats are masters of temperature regulation, and grooming plays a big part. It helps them cool down in warm weather and keeps them warm in cooler temperatures.

When do cats learn to groom?

Cat grooming begins at a young age with the help of their mother. She starts the grooming process early, licking her kittens to keep them clean and teaching them the ropes. By the time they're weaned, they're usually expert groomers themselves. 

Cat grooming explained

Cats have their own perfect system when it comes to grooming. It’s a mix of instincts and lessons from their mother. It’s adorable to watch, but takes some of their concentration, so avoid disturbing them if you can. The process of cat grooming can take many forms, but not necessarily in this order.

• The Lick and Wipe: First, they lick their paw so it’s moist and then wipe over their face and head. It's the perfect way to clean those tricky spots behind their ears.
• Self Brush Time: Cat tongues have a sandpaper-like texture thanks to it being covered in tiny spines. It’s like their own built-in brush, which they use to work their way down their body, removing loose fur and dirt.
• Tooth Combing: Ever wondered why cats have such pointy teeth? Yes, they’re for eating, but they also act like a comb, helping to remove stubborn knots and tangles in their fur.

Grooming tips for owners

While cats are self-sufficient groomers, they do sometimes need their owner’s help. You don’t have to be an expert – just be gentle and make sure you pay attention to their body language. Once you learn how to groom a cat, they’ll be looking forward to it each time. 

• Brush them regularly – especially if they’re a long-haired cat. This helps prevent painful matting and lessens the chance of shedding. Do some research and choose a brush that suits your cat's fur type. Remember to start gently to avoid any discomfort.
• If your cat is having difficulty grooming or you notice changes in its skin or coat, it can sometimes be a sign of underlying health issues like dental problems, obesity, or arthritis. If this is the case, it's best to have a chat with your vet.

Remember, a well-groomed cat will tend to purr more! By understanding cats grooming needs and lending a helping hand, your favourite furry housemate will look and feel their best. Check out our Guide to Purrrfect Living for more helpful advice.

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