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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