Brushing and Bathing
Although cats self-groom, most also benefit from and enjoy brushing. Grooming and inspecting your kitten’s coat for mats should be part of her routine care and is also an enjoyable way for you to spend time with your new kitten. Brushing functions to remove dead hair and skin, and helps to distribute the skin's natural oils throughout the coat.
Although all cats benefit from brushing, long-haired cats may require a bit more attention from their owners to comb the dense undercoat and to prevent matting. Areas of your kitten’s body that are most likely to form mats include behind the ears, between the legs and under the tail. If unattended, mats can contribute to skin problems and infections. The regular removal of dead hair may also help to reduce hairball formation in some cats.
Select a brush that is correct for your cat's coat type. If you have a short-coated breed, use a short-bristled, slightly stiff brush that will not irritate her skin. Long-coated breeds require a comb or brush that is designed to comb through the entire coat, not just over the top layers of hair. If you brush your kitten frequently and take good care of her skin and coat, she will require bathing very infrequently. When you do bathe your cat, always use a shampoo that is specifically formulated for cats’ skin and coat. Longhair cats often benefit from a crème rinse designed to help reduce tangles and matting after baths.
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