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Getting Into The Routine: How To Care For Your Cat’s Skin And Coat

You likely know how crucial it is to feed your cat nutritious meals and make sure they get regular exercise. But are you keeping up with their grooming routine? Regularly brushing and bathing your cat will help ensure their skin stays clear and their coat maintains a healthy shine. Here are some tips, tricks and guidelines to help you get started.

wet grey cat with black stripes getting a bath in sink

SPLISH SPLASH: HOW AND WHEN TO GIVE YOUR CAT A BATH

Generally, you should bathe your cat every four to six weeks to avoid a matted coat. Baths can be tricky, so we recommend bathing at a time when your cat feels calm. Before putting them in the tub, make sure their nails have been clipped and they’ve been thoroughly brushed. Then wet your cat’s fur with lukewarm water (a detachable shower head is helpful so you can aim more accurately) and massage your cat with one part cat shampoo to five parts water.

Start with their head and work toward their tail, being mindful of their face, ears and eyes. When you’ve reached their tail, start rinsing them off with lukewarm water. Then, carefully wipe your cat’s face with a wet washcloth, again taking extra care around their eyes and ears. Finally, use a large towel to gently dry them off in a warm area of your home.

Your bathing schedule will depend on a few factors. If your cat spends a lot of time outdoors, you’ll probably need to bathe them more frequently since they are exposed to more elements than an indoor cat. Cats with longer hair need more care than their short-haired counterparts and may need more frequent baths.

grey cat with black stripes beign held by owner and getting brushed

Brushing Best Practices

The benefits of brushing your cat are twofold. It’s not just a great way to bond — it also improves the overall health of your cat’s skin and coat. Routine brushing removes dirt, grease, skin flakes and dead hair, and also helps stimulate your cat’s blood circulation. Brushing your cat at least once or twice a week will keep their skin and coat in tip-top shape.

Long-haired cat owners may need to brush more often than twice a week to prevent tangles or mats and remove dead hair. Start with your cat’s belly and legs and continue to comb upward toward their head.

If you have a short-haired cat, use a metal comb. Be sure to brush in the direction their coat grows. Start from their head, moving down toward their tail. If your cat’s fur is especially short, you may want to use a rubber brush to get rid of dead hair.

Omega 6 Fatty Acids: Your Cat’s Secret Weapon

While regular bathing and brushing are important, omega 6 fatty acids are essential in keeping your cat’s skin and coat healthy. The good news is that it’s easy to make sure your cat is getting this vital nutrient every day. NUTRO™ WHOLESOME ESSENTIALS™ Adult Indoor Formula with Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe is rich in omega 6 fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and a soft, shiny coat for your cat.

Know When To Visit Your Vet

You know your cat best. If they’re chewing their fur or scratching or licking excessively, schedule a visit to your vet as soon as possible. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for redness or swelling of the skin, fur loss, bumps, scabs or excessive flakiness — all are symptoms that can indicate an underlying health issue.