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GROOMING YOUR KITTEN

Cats are designed to look after their own coats. Their rough tongues are like mini-brushes, removing dead hair and distributing oils through the coat. However, they still need a helping hand.

Grooming isn't just about making your kitten look good; it removes dead hair, keeps the coat healthy and helps you build a bond

Brushing

A kitten's coat will be softer, fluffier, and shorter than an adult's. And even if it isn't yet required, it's still a good idea to get your kitten used to being groomed. The good news is that kittens usually love being groomed. Most will even come running when they see you have their brush.

Brushing Up – A few tips

• When your kitten is on your lap, start brushing gently.
• After just two minutes, stop brushing and start stroking again.
• Repeat several times a day, increasing the brushing time.
• If the kitten attempts to bite or swipe the brush, turn away but don't let go. Cats hate to be ignored and soon learn that attacking the brush loses your attention.
• When your kitten is familiar with the sensation of being groomed (after about five days), start to groom the belly, tail, ears and other sensitive areas.
• While the kitten is relaxed and enjoying the experience, touch the feet and examine the nails and toes. Look inside your pet's ears and gently open the mouth to examine the teeth and gums.
• Always end a grooming session with a good fuss and a stroke.

Bathing

Most short-haired cats go through their lives without being bathed. However, there may be times when they need a dip. Long-coated breeds and show cats are bathed quite frequently, so get them used to an occasional warm bath while still young.

• Groom the coat thoroughly so there are no knots.
• Put a rubber mat at the bottom of the sink.
• Have your mild cat shampoo and a towel to hand, so everything you need is within reaching distance.
• Hold your kitten gently but firmly, place in the sink and wet the coat all over.
• Try to avoid getting water in your kitten's eyes and ears.
• Apply the shampoo as instructed and rinse thoroughly.
• Now lift the 'bather' out, wrap a towel around stroke the kitten through the towel to remove excess moisture.
• Check the water in the sink for any signs of parasites, such as fleas and ticks.
• If the coat is very long, it may need blow-drying while brushing it. Keep the dryer away from the skin and on a cool setting, as the skin can burn.
• Don't let your kitten venture outside until the coat is completely dry.

General weekly checks

• Check your cat's ears. Are they clean and fresh-smelling?
• Run your hands all over your cat's body. Are there any scratches, lumps or bumps.
• Check the eyes and nose - and contact your vet if you notice any discharge.
• Check under your cat's tail. The rear end should be clean and healthy looking.
• Run your hand against the direction of the coat, to fluff the hair up. Check the hair roots and skin. Are there any signs of parasites, or flea dirt (black specks)?

Signs of a normal and healthy kitten

You live with your kitten day in and day out. So you are the best person to judge if he’s acting normal. Here are a few things you can look out for.

Eyes: Should be bright and clear without any discharge.
Ears: Should be clean and free from discharge, odour or redness.
Nose: Should be clean and free from sores.
Mouth: Gums should be pink or black with teeth free from tartar or plaque. Bad breath can be a sign of health problems.
Coat: Shiny and clean
Weight: Active playful kittens are rarely overweight. But just in case, ask your vet for nutritional advice.
Litter box habits: Changes in litter box habits and quality of urine or stools could indicate health problems.

Staying Active

Overweight kittens become overweight cats, and fat cats aren't healthy cats. Exercise will help control your cat's weight. So keep up activity levels, invest in some toys, an indoor climbing frame or even a scratching post.

A cat's home and social environment are also important in encouraging activity. Does your home contain many structures to climb or jump onto? Do you put away your cat's toys after play sessions, so their reappearance is always irresistible?

These little things will make a big difference