Brushing a Long Haired Kitten

While a long-haired cat will groom itself, self-grooming is usually not sufficient for the cat to maintain its own coat. Typically, these cats shed hair throughout the year, as they are exposed to artificial light and heat. Therefore, it becomes essential to brush and groom your cat regularly to prevent mats and tangles. Regular brushing not only removes dead hair, dirt, grease and flaky skin, it also stimulates blood circulation, so that the cat has a healthy and glowing coat.

Things You'll Need

  • Wide-toothed comb
  • Slicker brush
  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the kitten on your lap or on a non-slip surface on a table. Begin brushing the sides of the kitten using the slicker brush. This allows the kitten to get used to the grooming process. Do this several times a day.

    • 2

      Praise the kitten for being cooperative during the short brushing process. You can reward the kitten with treats, so that it works as a positive reinforcement. You can also spend some time stroking your pet and talking to it in a soft, gentle voice.

    • 3

      Stop brushing if the kitten tries to bite the brush. Some may even use their paws to push away the brush. Hold on to the kitten, but look away. Ignoring them will let the kitten know its behavior is not appreciated.

    • 4

      Increase the duration of brushing gradually over a few days. Each time praise the kitten and offer it treats for being good. Soon you will be brushing the kitten just once a day for a longer duration. A 15 to 30-minute grooming session should keep your kitten's coat looking shiny and healthy.

    • 5

      Use the wide-toothed comb to remove tangles from the coat. Begin with the belly area and then move to the tail, ears, sides and back. Be gentle while combing, otherwise you may end up hurting your pet.

    • 6

      Brush with the slicker brush using long and gentle strokes. This will get rid of dead and loose hair.

    • 7

      Inspect the ears and feet while your pet is in a relaxed frame of mind. This will allow you to check whether the ears need cleaning and the claws require clipping.