Hot weather can be quite miserable for long-haired cats such as Persians or Himalayans. As such, if you have a long-haired breed of cat, you may have been wondering whether or not shaving its coat will help.
Tips on How to Save a Cat
While shaving cats for the summer may be beneficial, there are some things you need to take into consideration first.
Terribly Matted Cat Coats Before you begin to shave your cat, you must know that it is never a good idea to shave a coat that is matted. During shedding season, the hair of long-haired cat’s can matt up in tiny knots all over their bodies. When this occurs, the matts pull the cat’s skin up and into the tangles.
As such, if you attempt to shave a matted cat, you run a high risk of cutting your pet’s skin. Do not use scissors either. If your cat’s hair is severely matted, you need to take it to a groomer or veterinarian to get the matts out. Professionals know best how to get tangles out safely.
Preparing to Shave Your Cat
First of all, it is essential to note that cat shaving is best left to professionals, as cats often panic when they hear clippers. In most cases, a mild anesthesia is required to shave a cat. Nevertheless, if you have an unusually calm feline, you may be willing to try it yourself.
In this case, be absolutely positive that your cat is matt-free before shaving it. Then, you need to thoroughly brush out the coat and get rid of any dead hair. Run your fingers through the fur to ensure there are no tangles before you begin. Finally, never use human clippers on your pet, as they overheat easily and can pull your cat’s fur.
Shaving Your Cat
Since many felines cannot tolerate lengthy grooming sessions, most cat owners prefer to shave their cats in a lion cut. In this way, you will not have to shave the facial area, neck or paws. Place your cat on a sturdy table and using a Wahl clipper with a number 30 blade begin by carefully shaving each armpit.
Turn the cat onto its side, have someone hold it down and shave its stomach and groin area taking extra care not to nick the skin. Turn the cat back over and begin shaving the body starting at the base of the neck and moving down towards the tail. Work down each side after finishing the back. Leave a tuft of hair at the end of the tail and on each paw.
Professional Cat Groomers A shaved cat is often much happier and more comfortable during the hot days of summer. However, since cats have supple skin and many of them are high-strung, it is best to leave cat shaving to the professionals. Professional groomers and veterinarians have the experience necessary to shave your cat quickly and safely.
Nevertheless, if you do choose to shave your cat on your own, always be extremely careful and never shave a coat that is matted. Learning how to shave a cat can be a bit difficult, but it is not impossible, especially if you follow the useful tips described above.
