Find the grooming method that works for your feline
Grooming is part of a normal routine for most of cat owners. Excessive shedding occurs with a season change, or when they perceive a change should occur.
At this time of year, the war against hair becomes more frenzied, not only for the health of our felines, but for the humans it may bother as well.
The tools we use vary depending on length of coat - long vs. short - and there is also that pesky undercoat problem. Tolerance and temperament of your feline is another factor to consider. Then, there is the problem that not all tools are created equal. Some just don't get the job done.
If the grooming tools do not do a complete job, your feline might have digestive problems, otherwise known as hairballs.
If your pet does not let you do a complete job, or the tool fails, petroleum gels like laxatone can finish the work at hand. The flavors are more plentiful than ever. Besides original, there is malt, catnip, and tuna.
Shorthair felines usually tolerate a metal comb. The teeth in these combs can be the same length or varied. Experiment to see what your feline prefers.
Dual-sided brushes are also popular. One side will be a boar bristle and the other will be tiny, stainless pins. This side is meant to remove tangles, while the brush side makes the fur smooth, assuming this is a quality boar brush.
Another option is a slicker brush with wire pins, meant to detangle in a soothing way. I appreciate the fact that these tools are almost self cleaning. The push of a button pushes the hair out in a clump.
More expensive is not necessarily better for a slicker model. My felines tolerate the wire version, but most preferred the plastic as more gentle. This version is readily available at big box stores.
Some felines tolerate a deshedding tool that promises a deep-down clean. The Furminator is probably the most recognized. This product claims to be effective on long and short hair and be safe for the feline's skin with a protective barrier.
My felines found this tool to be the most invasive and would not tolerate it. Every feline's tolerance level for grooming is different, but I have to say, not one feline here liked the tool.
There are several options for felines who hate a larger brush. A rubber brush that fits in the palm of your hand is less threating to most felines. They can rub against the brush for a self-massage. My felines are big fans of Kong products, and their ZoomGroom did not disappoint. My felines found it a pleasant experience.
Some felines will not tolerate any more brushing than a grooming glove, which has tiny rubber bumpers on them that are soothing.
Some feline furniture comes with a self grooming tool, or one you can easily attach. This method is the least effective for removing hair. It serves better as a supplement to an already in-place grooming procedure.
If none of these options are working, and for really bad mats, a groomer may be your only option. You will then need to consult your veterinarian if a calming agent is appropriate.
Lastly, consider your grooming routine to be a hands-on screening aid to assist you in determining if your feline is healthy or if any change in wellness has occurred. Think of it as a wellness exam in-between your regular vet visits.
• The Buddy Foundation, 65 W. Seegers Road, Arlington Heights, is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization with all funds directly assisting its animals. Call (847) 290-5806 or visit thebuddyfoundation.org.