Inexpensive Pet Grooming Tools

Many pet owners make their pets regular appointments at grooming salons where professional groomers clean and manicure the pet from top to bottom with top-of-the-line grooming tools. You don't have to transform your house into one of these salons to maintain your pet's fur, but there are a few basic tools a serious pet owner shouldn't be without. Here's how to keep your pet looking good without breaking the bank.

  1. Deshedding Tool

    • Most owners groom their pets so they won't shed all over the place. A deshedding tool is essential to your repertoire of grooming supplies. These tools remove loose hair from the pet's skin, and most of them get the pet's circulation going, too. Some of these tools are brushes; others are rubber currycombs that are easy to clean. You can easily find an inexpensive deshedding tool at a pet store.

    Undercoat Comb

    • For some animals, a deshedding tool isn't enough. You need something to get at the thick undercoat, which sheds at certain times during the year. Usually, a fine-toothed metal comb will do the job. Some tools are a combination of deshedder and undercoat care, with a fine-toothed comb on one end and stiff metal or plastic bristles on the other side.

    Scissors

    • Scissors or shears are essential for keeping your pet looking crisp and clean. Use scissors on your pet's paws, ears and face to get rid of long or hanging hair. You can use human hair scissors, which are available at most drugstores, or you can get pet grooming shears. The end result is the same.

    Nail Clippers

    • Nail care is important for keeping your animal comfortable. Whether you have a cat, dog, rabbit, ferret or other pet, you need to maintain its nails. You should be able to get a quality set of nail clippers in your pet's size for less than $15. How often your pet's nails need to be clipped depends on how fast the nail grows and how active your pet is.

    Shampoo and Conditioner

    • Your pet will need to be bathed every so often, and shampoo is relatively inexpensive. The website Dog Shampoo Info has a recipe for making your own dog shampoo using vinegar, soap, water and glycerin (see Resources). Likewise, you can also make your own conditioner or buy it at a store. You shouldn't have to spend more than $8 on either product.