Most people usually wonder if they should bother brushing their cats. It’s widely known that cats do an exceptionally good job grooming themselves already. But, even if your cat is keeping up with his hygiene, it’s still vital to brush your cat. The Refined Feline lists 5 reasons why brushing your cat will benefit your cat and you.
1. Brushing Will Help Decrease The Hair
Every cat with hair is going to shed. How much hair will vary per cat and by the season, mostly shedding in fall and spring. No matter what though, every cat owner should expect cat hair on pretty much everything. Brushing can eliminate a good portion of the loose hairs that would normally be flying around. This is ideal for you in how often you have to clean all that hair!
2. Brushing Your Cat Will Reduce Hairballs.
Cats will sometimes struggle to cough up hairballs which can only increase in frequency as they age. Nothing wakes up a cat person faster than a cat coughing up a hairball somewhere in the house at 4 am. Hairballs come about when cats ingest hair while grooming. By removing some of the hair through brushing, your cat will have fewer hairballs.
3. Brushing Allows You A Chance To Check On Your Cat
It can be tricky to check for any medical issues with your cats that aren’t used to being handled. If this sounds like your cat, getting them used to being brushed can help. Let your cat get used to the brush through seeing and smelling it before approaching them with it. Eventually, your cats may get more comfortable and even appreciate the brushing. Try brushing your cat in a comfortable area, like on their favorite cat shelf. If they don’t end up liking it, you can always try another kind of brush. Once you’re able to brush your cat, you can use this quality time to also find any bumps, scratches, tender areas, or anything abnormal.
4. Brushing Is Even More Vital For Older Cats
Younger cats are going to be professionals at grooming themselves compared to older cats for a handful of reasons. Cats depend on their sense of smell, eyesight, and flexibility when grooming, and that will deteriorate as they age. So, acclimating your cat to being brushed as early as possible will make it easier to continue the habit as they age.
5. Brushing Can Bring You Together
Once your cat sees that being brushed isn’t so bad, it can be a great experience for the both of you. Brushing feels amazing for most cats as it feels a lot like licking. Cats will bond with each other through grooming as well! So, spend some quality time together brushing your cat while also ensuring your cat is well-groomed. Your cat may even groom you as well with a few licks to your hand!
Brushing Is Great For Both You & Your Cat
Brushing can have positive effects on a cat’s physical and mental health. Be sure to do some research and select a cat-specific brush that your cats would enjoy. To ensure it’s a positive experience, give treats at the end of each brushing session so you can continue brushing them throughout their life.
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