Do you have a longhaired kitty? Fluffy cats are super cute! Although your feline buddy’s basic needs will be the same as those of any other cat, you may need to take a few extra steps to keep your furry pal happy and purring. Read on as an Oshawa, ON vet discusses caring for a longhaired cat.

Veterinary Care

Fleas and ticks are a nuisance for any pet, but they can be particularly irritating for cats with long fur. Make sure to keep up with your feline pal’s parasite control products.

Diet

With super fluffy cats, it can be hard to tell if Fluffy is overweight, underweight, or right where she should be. Ask your vet for recommendations, including portion sizes and suitable snacks.

Brushing

Cats are very good about grooming themselves, but longhaired kitties often need a bit of help, especially under their armpits. Brush your cat regularly to remove tangles and/or dead fur. Pick a time when Fluffy is feeling relaxed. (Given the amount of time that cats spend napping, this shouldn’t be too hard.) Start by just petting your kitty, and then incorporate the brush. Add treats, cuddles, and compliments to sweeten the deal a bit. If your furry little diva decides she’s had enough, don’t force her to submit. Just let her go and try again later.

Trimming

You may need to trim the hair around Fluffy’s bottom, so she doesn’t get litter or fecal matter stuck in her coat. Use scissors with rounded tips to gently snip her fur back.

Hairballs

Hairballs are no more fun for cats than they are for us! Luckily, there are a few things you can do to reduce the amount of hairballs your feline buddy gets. As you may know, hairballs happen when cats swallow their own fur while grooming themselves. Brushing your kitty regularly will help quite a bit, as you’ll be trapping Fluffy’s dead fur in a brush before she can swallow it. As noted above, a good diet is also crucial: proper nutrition will keep your pet’s coat shiny and soft, and reduce the amount of dead fur she sheds. Finally, ask your vet for recommendations on supplements and hairball remedies. Is your fluffy cat due for vaccinations or exams? Does Fluffy need parasite control? We can help! Please feel free to contact us, your local Oshawa, ON animal clinic, anytime.