What Can I Do to Keep My Wild Siamese Cat Calm While Brushing It?

Cats often dislike being brushed, and grooming may be a difficult task at times. Siamese are classified as a short-haired breed and require only a weekly brushing. Siamese cats are adventurous and like to explore, and in wild cats this characteristic is more pronounced. The wild cat tends to be absent from home for longer periods, which may result in lack of brushing and tangles in its fur, making the brushing less pleasant. Tame your wild cat prior to performing any grooming activities. Wild cats may be aggressive when handled by people.

  1. Choosing the Time and Location

    • Choose a time when your cat is relaxed. Your cat is more likely to be cooperative after meals or after playtime, after it has spent its energy. Place the cat on a table or chair or choose a space your cat is familiar with. You may put your cat on its blanket, because the familiar smell may soothe it. Start petting your cat so it feels comfortable.

    Identify Sensitive Spots

    • Identify your cat's sensitive spots before you brush it. Stroke its fur and cover the entire body, including the belly. Potential sensitive spots include the tail, paws and ears. Avoid brushing the sensitive spots for too long, because this may irritate the cat. Touch the sensitive areas for a second before brushing, and give your cat a treat. During the grooming, quickly brush through the sensitive area and reward your cat with another treat.

    Tips for Brushing

    • Scratch behind the cat's ear and stroke its head, which have a calming effect on felines. Wet your hands and apply water on the cat's fur. A number of loose hairs stick to your hand; the cat enjoys this activity. Brush the cat using a soft brush following the direction of hair growth. Start with the top of the head and continue with the back, lengthening the strokes to include more of the body. Alternate brushing with petting, because some cats may not tolerate brushing for too long. Brush your cat on its belly if it rolls on its back. Continue petting your cat to make it roll over. Some cats don't like being brushed on their bellies, so be cautious and use gentle strokes. Go over each area of the body four to five times.

    Use Verbal Praise and Treats

    • Use a soothing voice throughout the brushing and praise your pet if it is cooperative. Don't panic if your cat is moving or if it doesn't cooperate. Allow your cat to sniff the brush your are using. Give your cat a treat after the grooming session, so that the cat associates the brushing with an enjoyable experience and will be likely to cooperate in the future.