Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
4.
Massage the shampoo into the coat, rubbing away from the
head.
5.
Use a toothbrush with some lather to clean the cat's face,
being careful not to get any soap in the animal's eyes. If sham-
poo does get in the cat's eyes, rinse with saline solution from a
bottle.
6.
Let the cat soak for a couple of minutes.
7.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
8.
Squeeze the excess water out of the coat and down the legs
and tail.
9.
Thoroughly towel-dry the cat.
10.
Use a blow dryer on low or medium to dry the coat. Higher
settings can cause burning if you are not careful.
11.
Comb or brush the hair during the drying process.
If you are fortunate enough to have a cooperative kitty, the process
will go well. For cats who are scared or anxious, though, the process can
be a disaster if you are not careful. Expect the cat to try to get out of
the sink. Consider wearing an apron or old clothes in case you get
splashed or have to grab a wet cat. Close the door to the room to help
prevent kitty's escape.
GIVE UP?
You may be reading this chapter and thinking, “You've got to be kid-
ding! There is no way I could ever groom my cat.” If this is true, or if
you have been unsuccessful in your grooming efforts, consider taking
your cat to an experienced groomer.
Not all groomers like working with cats, so it is important to find
one who does. There are some groomers who have mobile vans and
will come to your house, park in your driveway and work on your kitty
there. Other groomers work in grooming shops, pet supply stores and
veterinary hospitals. There are groomers who have completed courses
on pet grooming and have certificates. There are others who have
learned by experience.
