Taking Care of a Longhaired Cat

Does your cat have long hair? While all cats are adorable in their own ways, longhaired kitties tend to be particularly enchanting. Fluffy can wear a variety of colors and patterns, but she appears especially charming with fluffy locks. Having a super adorable pet comes with few downsides, but you will need to assist your furry friend with her grooming routine. In this article from Hassayampa Veterinary Services, your Wickenburg, AZ vet, serving Wickenburg and the surrounding communities, a local vet shares valuable tips for caring for a longhaired cat.

Is it Difficult to Care for Long-Haired Cats?

Generally, longhaired cats need the same level of care as any other cat. Fluffy requires nutritious food, a tidy litterbox, cozy shelter, and, naturally, appropriate veterinary care. This will address the fundamental aspects of kitty care. To get that motor running, you’ll also need to offer affection, playthings, and room on your lap. Catnip, sunbeams, and boxes will surely delight your feline ruler.

The only big difference between long and short-haired cats is that Fluffy will need help getting groomed. Cats have a natural inclination towards cleanliness. Aside from the fact that they are really adorable, endearing, enjoyable, and entertaining, this is one of the best things about them. Your cat will interrupt her busy routine of napping to groom herself so she can keep her coat in pristine condition. The beauty care routine can be somewhat demanding for longhaired cats. That’s quite a bit of fur to manage!

There’s no need to overdo it … simply make sure to brush your furry companion regularly. This will not only simplify things for Fluffy, but it will also make your life easier, as you won’t have to deal with cat fur getting scattered everywhere. You will collect that loose fur with a brush before it ends up on your sofa.

What Are Some Cats That Have Long Hair?

The International Cat Association recognizes a total of 73 distinct cat breeds. We find them all absolutely charming!

Here are a few of the floofers included in the list:

• Maine Coon
• Norwegian Forest Cat
• Birman
• Himalayan
• Siberian
• Ragdoll
• Turkish Angora
• Balinese cat
• Turkish Van
• British Longhair
• Persian

Of course, there are numerous fluffy crossbreed kitties available, along with many that have medium fur.

What Is The Best Way To Groom A Longhaired Cat?

Brushing Fluffy is quite straightforward … provided that she is agreeable and doesn’t object. It’s best to wait until your cat is calm and at ease. (Considering that cats dedicate an astonishingly large portion of their day to sleeping, this likely won’t require much time.) If your kitty is a lap cat, you can simply wait until she has comfortably settled herself over your lap. Simply begin stroking her, moving your hand in the direction of her fur. Next, include the brush.

A number of cats genuinely take pleasure in being groomed. It probably brings back memories for Fluffy of her childhood (or kittenhood), when her mother would groom her. Bonded kitties frequently engage in mutual grooming. This phenomenon is not exclusive to cats; it is also observed in horses, primates, and birds. Your pet may begin purring or even licking your hand. Or, she may bite you. You never know with cats.

Kitties are all unique individuals. While some enjoy being groomed, others are not fans. It’s important not to impose it. If your pet can only handle a few brush strokes at a time, consider spacing out the grooming sessions. If she struggles or decides she’s had enough, do not attempt to restrain her. That will only decrease her willingness to be groomed in the future. It’s also an effective method for getting scratched.

In addition to that, we would like to emphasize that it’s important to brush your entire pet, not just her back. Longhaired cats frequently develop tangles in their ‘armpits,’ so your pet might require additional assistance in that area.

How Often Should I Brush Fluffy?

This may differ slightly. If your cat is very fluffy, consider brushing her every day. Senior cats require additional assistance in this area and may benefit from more frequent brushing. In general, it is advisable to brush your cat approximately once or twice a week.

Should I Bathe My Fluffy Cat?

Your feline friend shouldn’t need a bath. However, if you have a kitten, it’s a good idea to acclimate your little furball to the process. This approach will make it simpler for both of you if she happens to get something spilled on her fur.

Avoid bathing your pet too frequently. Doing so would remove the natural oils from her skin and fur. This may result in her appearance being dry and potentially frizzy. Additionally, it may genuinely cause irritation to her skin.

Using the appropriate products and techniques is crucial. Choose a mild shampoo specifically formulated for cats. The ones designed for people are too strong for Fluffy. Additionally, use lukewarm water instead of hot water. Lastly, ensure that suds do not come into contact with your cat’s eyes, ears, nose, or mouth. You can rinse her with a pitcher. Alternatively, you can simply use a facecloth to wipe your cat’s head clean.

Bathing a matted cat is not advisable. That will only exacerbate the situation!

What Should I Do If My Feline Pal Becomes Matted?

Mats can frequently be found on fluffy cats. Senior cats are especially susceptible to them. Several factors contribute to this situation. As your pet ages, she will find it increasingly difficult to bend and stretch. Additionally, senior cats may have skin that produces more oil than that of younger cats. This may also lead to matting.

However, mats can occasionally indicate underlying medical concerns. If your cat is developing numerous mats, consult your veterinarian.

Gently remove any mat you find on your kitty. It’s important not to exert too much force. Kitties skin is quite delicate and can be easily torn. Calm Fluffy by gently petting her and maybe offering her a treat.

Begin with the end of the mat. Consider applying a detangling spray to it. We suggest acquiring a specialized mat-removing comb.

Severe mats might require shaving. A small mat might be manageable, but for more significant mats, it’s advisable to consult your vet or groomer. Exercise caution when using cutting mats. It’s simple to unintentionally injure your cat!

Is It Advisable To Shave My Cat?

At times, cats may require a grooming shave. This frequently occurs when cats become too old or ill to maintain their fur. Chubby kitties often struggle to bend and stretch sufficiently to reach their entire bodies.

This is not an activity recommended for home execution. Consult with your Wickenburg, AZ  veterinarian or groomer. Fluffy might also be perfectly content with just a trim.

Do Long-Haired Cats Have a Higher Likelihood of Hairballs?

Hairballs are an unfortunate consequence of one of Fluffy’s most admirable qualities: her cleanliness. Your adorable little diva will ingest some of her own fur while grooming herself. Unfortunately, cats are unable to digest their own fur. There’s probably no need for us to elaborate on what follows, except to note that it’s not the most enjoyable aspect of owning a cat. It’s also no more fun for Fluffy than it is for you. 

Hairballs are more than just an unpleasant annoyance. They can pose a threat. Sometimes, cats find it difficult to expel hairballs through the typical means. If a hairball becomes trapped in Fluffy’s gastrointestinal tract, it may lead to a blockage, resulting in significant pain and potential danger.

Grooming longhaired cats is essential for this reason as well. Additionally, ensure that your cat is receiving adequate nutrition and has access to fresh water at all times. If your pet appears to be experiencing frequent hairballs, consult your Wickenburg, AZ  veterinarian.

Schedule A Visit At Our Wickenburg, AZ Pet Clinic

Are you seeking information on how to care for a longhaired cat? Reach out to us at Hassayampa Veterinary Services, your Wickenburg, AZ vet, serving Wickenburg and the surrounding communities, anytime!