Do you have a longhaired kitty? If so, you have a very cute pet! If Fluffy is, well, super fluffy, you may have to take a few extra precautions to keep your feline buddy healthy and comfortable. In this article from Westside Animal Hospital, a Savannah, GA vet discusses caring for a fluffy cat.

Grooming

Although cats are very good about keeping themselves clean, it can be challenging for longhaired kitties to keep that pretty fur soft and shiny. You may need to give your feline friend a helping hand. Brushing your cat regularly will remove dead fur and dander from her coat before it ends up stuck to your sofa. Longhaired cats tend to get tangles in their armpits and around their bottoms, so pay extra attention to these areas. Pick a time when your furry pal is relaxed and perhaps a bit sleepy, and start by petting her. Then, incorporate the brush. If your cat doesn’t like being groomed, use toys, treats, and compliments to help her realize that she is being pampered, not punished.

Feeding

Proper nutrition is important for many reasons, but it’s also crucial to keeping Fluffy’s fur healthy. Make sure your kitty is eating a nourishing, high-quality diet that contains essential fatty acids. A good diet will help keep your cat’s fur shiny and healthy, and can reduce the amount of fur she sheds.

Trimming

You may want to trim the fur around Fluffy’s bottom, so she doesn’t get litter or fecal matter stuck there. Be sure to use rounded scissors, which are much safer than regular ones.

Parasite Control

Fleas and ticks are no fun for any cat, but they can be particularly problematic to longhaired furballs. Make sure to keep up with Fluffy’s parasite control products. Ask your vet for more information.

Hairballs

Fluffy will inevitably swallow some of her fur while grooming herself. Cats can’t digest hair, however. You may know what happens next: hairballs. Hairballs are no fun for either you or Fluffy. They can also be quite dangerous for our feline friends! Brushing will help prevent and reduce hairballs, but you may also need to give your kitty a hairball remedy. Ask your vet for more information. Please contact Westside Animal Hospital, your local Savannah, GA animal clinic, with any questions or concerns about your fluffy cat’s health or care. We’re happy to help!