Cats are renowned for their self-grooming habits, often dedicating a significant portion of their day to keeping themselves clean. However, regular grooming by their human companions is essential to ensure their overall health and well-being. 

If you've welcomed a kitten into your home, it's beneficial to introduce grooming practices early on. Starting grooming routines between 4 to 6 weeks of age helps kittens become accustomed to the process, making future grooming sessions less stressful for both of you.

Bathing your Cat:

Signs Your Cat Might Need a Bath:

Cats are generally excellent self-groomers and don’t often need a bath. However, there are specific situations where giving your cat a bath is beneficial or necessary.

• They’ve gotten into something messy or sticky: Cats that explore outdoors or rummage in cupboards might get covered in grease, mud, or even non-toxic household messes like syrup or peanut butter.
• Their coat feels greasy or smells bad: An unusually oily coat or a noticeable odor can indicate that natural grooming isn’t enough.
• They have a medical condition: Some cats with skin conditions, allergies, or parasites may need medicated baths as prescribed by a veterinarian.
• They’re elderly or obese: Older or overweight cats may have difficulty grooming themselves thoroughly, especially around their hindquarters.
•  Fleas or external parasites: A bath using a vet-approved flea shampoo may be necessary to get rid of infestations.
• How to Bathe Safely:
  • Preparation: Place a non-slip mat in the sink or tub to prevent slipping.
  • Water Temperature: Use lukewarm water to ensure comfort.
  • Shampoo: Use a cat-safe shampoo to avoid skin irritation.
  • Drying: Gently towel-dry your cat and keep them warm until completely dry.

Products we recommend for bath/alternative cleaning:

• Shampoo:
  • Incredipet Puppy & Kitten Shampoo
  • Incredipet Emu Oil Shampoo
  • Incredipet Allergy Relief Shampoo

• Waterless:
  • Incredipet Dry Shampoo Spray
  • Tropiclean Deep Cleaning Waterless No-Rinse Shampoo
  • Incredipet Pet Wipes (unscented or lavender)

• Flea & Tick:
  • Vetality Naturals Flea & Tick Conditioning Shampoo for Cats
  • Advantage Flea And Tick Treatment Shampoo for Cats

• Ear Wash:
  • Earth Animal Clean Ears Herbal Ear Wash for Dogs & Cat
  • Incredipet Eucalyptus Ear Wash

Brushing Your Cat’s Fur

Why Brushing Matters:

Regular brushing helps remove loose fur, prevents mats, and reduces hairballs. It also provides an opportunity to check for skin issues or parasites.

Brushing Tips

• Start Slow: Introduce the brush gradually, allowing your cat to sniff and get used to it.

• Gentle Strokes: Use gentle strokes in the direction of hair growth.

• Positive Reinforcement: Offer treats to create a positive association with brushing.

Products we reccomend: 

• Coastal Pet Products Safari Complete Cat Brush

• Coastal Pet Products Safari Self-Cleaning Slicker Cat Brush

• Furminator Long Hair Deshedding Tool For Small Cats

Trimming your Cat’s Nails: 

Regular nail trims prevent overgrown nails that can cause discomfort or injury and reduce the risk of scratches to people and furniture.

How to Trim Safely

• Use Proper Tools: Utilize cat-specific nail clippers.
  
• Technique: Gently press the paw to extend the nail and trim just the tip, avoiding the quick (the pink area).
  
• Take Breaks: If your cat becomes restless, take breaks and try again later.

Products we reccomend:

• Incredipet Nail Clipper
• Coastal Pet Products Cat Nail Trimmer

• Coastal Pet Products Safari Pet Syptic Powder (to quickly stop bleeding for cuts)
• Incredipet Corded Nail Grinder

Professional Grooming Services 

Grooming at home isn’t always easy—especially if your cat is fussy or fearful. For those situations, consider the professional grooming services available at Feeders Pet Supply.

Cat grooming is available at select locations and includes a variety of services such as:

• Full-service baths
• Nail trims
• Specialty grooming tailored to your cat’s specific needs

We also offer walk-in nail trims at most stores during select hours, making routine care simple and convenient.

Learn more about our grooming services here, and call our customer service team at (888) 667-1214 to schedule a specialty cat grooming appointment.