Animal Grooming Facts

If you are a new pet owner, you may be surprised at the various ways your pet keeps himself clean. While some animals, such as cats and even some breeds of dogs, groom themselves by licking, others seem to want nothing to do with cleanliness, rolling in the mud at every chance they get. Whether or not your pet is a self-groomer, you will need to take some steps to ensure that he is properly groomed.

  1. Definition

    • Grooming is any activity--whether on your part or his--that contributes to your pet's physical appearance and makes him cleaner or more hygienic. Grooming isn't just about keeping the coat clean, but all parts of your pet's body.

    Coat

    • The coat is obviously the largest part of your pet's body that requires grooming, and possibly the hardest to groom. Some pets, like short-haired cats, require only a brushing now and then because they lick themselves clean and may not shed much. Long-haired cats may require more frequent brushing. Bathing is a necessity only if your kitty likes to romp outdoors and comes back with dirt in his fur and matting. For dogs, brushing and bathing should be done regularly, as most dog breeds don't lick themselves clean. Dogs with long fur need particular help grooming their coats, which can quickly become laden with dirt, fleas and ticks. Coat may need to be trimmed regularly, for instance.

    Nails

    • It's not necessary to cut a cat's nails, unless you want to keep him from scratching you when you pick him up or tearing through your furniture or carpeting. Dogs, on the other hand, need to have their nails cut about once a month, because their nails simply continue growing. Excessively long nails can cause them discomfort when walking. Use clippers specifically made for dogs or cats, or a nail sander that gently sands down the tip, and always have clotting powder on hand in case you accidentally cut through the quick of the nail.

    Ears

    • Like humans, all domestic animals occasionally need their ears cleaned. Ear infections can lead to pain and hearing loss. Incorporate ear cleaning into your normal grooming routine by checking your pet's ears any time you brush him. Use a cotton ball damped with warm water to gently clean out the ear if you see any brown or black accumulations, but avoid probing too deeply into the ear canal.

    Teeth

    • Also like humans, dogs and cats can get cavities, which can lead to periodontal disease. Use a pet toothpaste and toothbrush to brush your pet's teeth a couple of times a week. Your pet may resist tooth brushing at first, but should eventually get used to it. Your vet can also do a professional tooth cleaning every year. Special dental chews and treats can help remove plaque at home.