Why do you need to cut your pet's hair short from time to time?
Grooming, or trimming a cat's fur, is necessary for many reasons. These include keeping a person’s home clean, caring for a pet, preventing intestinal diseases, allergies and maintaining hygiene.
Owners of long-haired cats should be aware that their pet loses hair all the time, and not just during the shedding season. Therefore, it is advisable to periodically cut your pet's hair short to maintain its health and cleanliness in the house.
For your information! Grooming also helps to avoid tangles, which cause suffering to the cat, provoke the growth of bacteria, and disrupt blood flow and heat exchange.
The frequency of haircuts is affected by the breed and the rate of fur growth. Long-haired pets should be trimmed more often, for example, British chinchillas, Maine Coons and Redgalls should be trimmed once every five months. To begin with, the wool must be washed, dried, combed with brushes, and then trimmed. You can do this yourself or in a specialized salon.
Grooming a cat with thick, long hair
What breeds of cats are allowed to be cut? And is it necessary to do this?
Grooming cats is often not a whim of their owners.
In most cases, cat grooming is about caring for the health of the animal. But what is it for? Firstly, hygienic grooming of cats may be necessary when the hair becomes matted, which does not allow the skin to “breathe”, tightens it, causing pain and discomfort. Also, various microorganisms develop under them, which cause inflammation of the skin. Therefore, it is necessary to cut out the tangles. However, it is often more aesthetically pleasing to clip the entire animal rather than clip individual problem areas. The tangles themselves are worthy of a separate discussion, as they indicate the animal’s ill health and metabolic disorders. A cat can try so hard to get rid of tangles on its own that it hurts itself. A side effect of such diligence can also be eating a large amount of wool, which becomes a lump in the stomach, causing vomiting or, even worse, clogging the passages in the digestive tract. In the latter case, you cannot do without the help of a veterinarian. A cat also eats a lot of fur when shedding. During these periods, it is recommended to get a haircut. Due to their age, cats may not be able to maintain their coat well. In this case, tangles can appear literally every week, and the coat of an old cat will look untidy. Secondly, a haircut can make life easier for you and your pet if your cat sheds a lot and leaves fur all over the apartment, even when it is regularly brushed. Another reason why cats are cut is due to various skin diseases of the animal. In some cases, a cat's haircut is necessary because its owner is allergic to fur. When a cat is groomed with a professional clipper, its fur becomes short, the hairs that fall out do not get tangled, they can be easily combed out, and the cat will not leave as much hair on your furniture, carpets and clothes. Thirdly, very fluffy cats can be cut during the hot season. Why can't you shave and cut semi-longhaired cats such as Maine Coons, Siberian and Norwegian forest cats? One of the main functions of wool is to maintain normal body temperature, which is very important for all warm-blooded animals. The Maine Coon's two-layer coat creates an air layer with a stable temperature between the skin and the hot (or cold) air of the surrounding space. Accordingly, without fur, an animal can easily get overheated or hypothermic. Persian cats are longhaired, not semi-longhaired like Maine Coons. This means a completely different structure and texture of the coat, which does not have a pronounced difference between the coat and the undercoat, it is long and thin on all parts of the cat's body. Maine Coons have a two-layer coat, which means there is a significant difference in both the length and the structure and texture of the coat on different parts of the body. Therefore, the opinion that Persian cats cannot be cut is erroneous. The frequency of haircuts is determined by the rate at which the hair grows and how it becomes tangled. On average, a cat has time to grow up in about 3-6 months, therefore, grooming can be carried out from one to three times a year. If owners want to cut their cat's hair less often, they need to brush it more often. The areas where mats most often form are the armpits, the area between the hind legs, behind the ears, on the neck and tail. Some people believe that grooming is not necessary, just cutting off the tangles in time is enough. Yes, you can do this, but then the aesthetics of the animal’s appearance will leave much to be desired. It is also dangerous because tangles form in areas where the skin is very delicate, and cutting them off can injure the animal. After all, sometimes it is quite difficult to distinguish where the skin fold ends and the tangle begins. What to remember about grooming cats • Animals are never cut “headless”, as this can cause irritation on the animal’s body and disrupt its heat exchange. The cat must have a small layer of wool left to protect it from sun rays and cold. Otherwise, the animal may get burns or catch a cold • The structure of the coat or its color after cutting may change unpredictably (or may remain the same, it is impossible to foresee this in advance). • The cat's head should not be cut (hair in the ears, whiskers on the face and cheeks). • The tail should not be completely cut. The length of the brush left should be at least a third of the length of the tail, otherwise the cat may begin to catch its tail and gnaw on it, even to the point of a wound, which is very difficult to treat. And most importantly: do not cut your cat's hair unless absolutely necessary. Try to take care of your pet's fur and brush it often to prevent tangles from appearing. Strong advice for owners is to constantly take care of their pet’s coat from a very early age. Kittens (especially long-haired breeds) should be accustomed to combs and slicker brushes as quickly as possible. To remove hairballs from adult cats, it is recommended to use special food. We hope that at the height of the spring season, our tips will be truly relevant and useful for cat owners.
What it is
Externally, the device looks like a regular electric device for cutting people's hair. The difference between them is minimal, since a cat can be trimmed with a regular clipper.
But provided that it is very powerful, it has sharp blades, and the power comes from the network. However, long-haired pets cannot be cut with conventional devices.
When choosing a model, you should take into account the breed and structure of the coat: in cats it is soft and thick. Special machines do their job well and do not cause discomfort to the pet. The following types are used for grooming cats:
- automatic - they work thanks to a vibration or rotary motor, powered by batteries or mains;
- manual - mechanical design similar to scissors, but with cutting blades.
Mechanical devices are silent, do not create vibration, and therefore do not frighten the cat. They also have their drawbacks - the length of the process, the inability to achieve an ideal result.
What clippers and trimmers are needed to care for a cat's claws and what is their price?
Machines are divided by engine type: pendulum, vibration and rotary. The former have average power and are used for home use. The second ones are low-power and produce minimal sound. Ideal for cutting short-haired pets, such as Ocicat. Rotary devices are professional, they are powerful and reliable.
There are also electric trimmers that are used to trim hair on the face, under the tail, on the paws, and on the belly.
Features of a cat's haircut
During the procedure, you should not show your own anxiety to the animal. If the performer is overly emotional, the pet will feel it and begin to worry. Description of the procedure:
- Lay the cat on its side and secure its hind and front paws.
- The haircut starts from the sides, then moves to the back and stomach. Paws and tail are trimmed as desired. Experts recommend leaving the fur at the tip of the tail. If this is not done, the animal will perceive this area as a foreign body and begin to bite it.
- During manipulation, the pet's skin needs to be slightly stretched so as not to accidentally get caught by the machine.
- The perineal area is cut with scissors.
- The back is processed last.
- The hair in the armpit area is cut using a 2 mm nozzle.
- The animal's head is not trimmed. Long hairs are carefully trimmed with scissors. Whiskers and ear fur should not be touched, as they affect the animal’s orientation in space.
- A haircut against the grain allows you to create an even hairstyle. However, many cats do not like this method. If your pet is very afraid of the procedure, you can cut the fur and trim uneven areas with thinning scissors.
After removing the fur, the cat should be combed, bathed and dried with a soft towel or dried with a hairdryer. If she has an extremely negative attitude towards water procedures, there is no need to expose her to unnecessary stress.
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Most famous brands
Choosing a suitable device that will last a long time sometimes becomes an overwhelming task. Many foreign brands produce devices that have earned respect from customers. Product quality, price, appearance, type, specificity - all this influences the choice.
Moser
Moser
A German brand that produces specialized devices for grooming pets. The Moser set consists of a machine, attachments, and tools.
The advantage of the brand is that the devices are convenient to use and store. Currently it is the most popular brand producing such instruments in Russia. The design of the cars is classic, the average price is 4,000 rubles.
Сodos
Сodos
The brand produces products in the budget segment. The models make minimal noise, thereby reducing the cat's anxiety.
The devices use the latest battery; they operate on mains power and batteries. The blade is made of stainless steel, the kit includes attachments, a cleaning brush, and a charger.
Andis
Andis
The American brand creates professional clippers for cats and dogs, which include removable knives. They operate quietly, the body is durable, and the blades are made of carbon steel. Price – from 9000 rub.
Ziver
Ziver
The brand produces professional clippers; models can be powered by batteries or mains power. The battery life is six hours. The device is suitable for cats of all breeds. Price – from 6000 rubles.
Very convenient gadget Baorun
Baorun
A popular manufacturer known for quality products. The devices are equipped with a powerful motor and sharp blades, which allows you to work at high speed, cutting any type of wool. There are some drawbacks, like other designs, but the price is budget - from 1,500 rubles.
Beautiful Wahl
Wahl
Devices from this brand belong to the expensive and professional segment. The appearance is stylish and convenient to use. The devices have two speed modes and can operate almost silently. Nozzles are not included. Price – from 11,000 rubles.
How long does a cat's hair grow after shaving?
How long a cat's fur grows after trimming and shaving is mainly influenced by genetics and nutritional balance. For example, my cat gained about 2 mm in length in 1-2 days. This is the normal rate of hair growth for cats. At first it looked like a waffle towel - a pitiful sight, although it was pleasant to touch (reminiscent of a mouton). Two weeks passed and the animal was in more or less decent shape. After about six months, as the groomers promised, the coat regained its previous length. On average, this is what happens.
However, as expected, the blue point cat was very dark on the body. It looks disgusting, so we're waiting for it to fade. There is little hope that after molting, the previous light shade will at least be restored a little.
But many owners complain that the cat’s hair does not grow well after a haircut. This also happens. And in rare cases, there may be areas of baldness where the hair does not recover at all.
How to choose
Choose a haircut device taking into account your personal needs. Nozzles should be selected based on the type of pet’s coat, as well as its length. An important role is played by the popularity of the manufacturer and the price of the device. Cheap models are usually made of low-quality plastic, which reduces the service life of the product.
The flimsy body will become unusable over time, and the attachments will quickly fail. Inexpensive devices look the part but may not cut hair well, causing discomfort to your pet. It makes sense to buy an expensive clipper if a haircut is needed to prepare a cat for an exhibition, for aesthetics, or for complete care of long-haired breeds.
How often should you get your hair cut?
The frequency of such a hygiene procedure depends on the breed of the cat and its coat type. On average, a cat's hair grows back completely in six months. Most veterinarians recommend trimming your pet's hair for hygienic purposes several times a year. If your cat has hairballs, you can simply cut them out with scissors.
You should not overuse haircuts, because wool is the natural protective cover of many animals, especially in the cold season. If your pet does not tolerate manipulation with scissors and clippers, it is recommended to entrust this task to a professional: veterinarians in clinics know how to calm an aggressive animal and carry out the procedure quickly and in the least traumatic way.
It is best to trim long-haired animals before the onset of heat, since furry pets do not tolerate high temperatures well.
The difference between professional models
Professional cat clippers are equipped with a powerful motor, many attachments, blades and knives. The equipment is extensive, and in terms of quality, amateur models are significantly inferior to professional ones. Simple models are inexpensive, easy to operate and designed for home use.
Warning! Inexpensive devices can quickly overheat and the blades become dull more often. Professional devices have much wider functionality, and the quality of the blade is higher.
Machines are often made of ceramic, as it heats up slightly, and the blades are made of durable stainless metal. The weight of the device should not be very heavy or light.
Ergonomics is the main difference between a good device, regardless of its purpose. The device should lie comfortably in your hand and not emit strong vibration. Expensive models have a wide range of settings; there are replaceable attachments for different areas of the body, as well as fur lengths. They require skills to use.
How does a cat machine differ from a human machine?
The external design and operating principle of the cat clipper resembles a regular human clipper. Naturally, many pet owners are interested in whether it is possible to trim their pet with such a device, and how one device differs from another in practice. Heterogeneous reviews on forums can be misleading - some users write that there is no difference, others indicate the opposite.
The truth is simple: yes, you can cut a cat’s hair with a simple clipper if the device:
- very powerful;
- with new, sharp blades;
- powered by mains.
In addition, you should take into account the amount of work and the characteristics of your animal. Six is much softer and thicker than human hair. It is strictly forbidden to cut a long-haired cat with a regular clipper, but it may be possible to remove mats from a breed with short hair.
In most cases, human clippers overheat due to such non-core use, the blades quickly become dull and the hair is not cut, but “twitches,” causing great discomfort to the animal. The conclusion is obvious: such devices are not technically designed for working with animals, although they can solve minor problems.
Kinds
All pet grooming devices are divided by type of operation. They are electrical and mechanical. The former are divided into the following types.
Rechargeable
Convenient to use, as they operate on batteries or mains. Use only when fully charged. Functional, suitable for non-professional grooming.
Vibrating
Low power devices, ideal for amateur use. Not suitable for cats with long hair. Often used to trim a cat's hair.
Mechanical
The device is suitable for grooming pets at home. Outwardly it looks like scissors, which have a spring in the middle. The advantage of a mechanical device is its quiet operation. It does not require any power supply and can be used anywhere.
The mechanical machine is universal and does not require attachments. Easy to clean, inexpensive. Disadvantages include the need for practice. In addition, it is difficult to cut the fur evenly with this device.
Rotary
High-power, they are not cheap, so they are used for professional purposes. The advantages of rotary models include versatility and easier blade movement. Different attachments allow you to trim any type of fur. The disadvantages include high noise and strong vibration during operation.
What to do if the cat resists and does not allow its fur to be cut?
Some owners use sedatives and sleeping pills to subdue animals. However, experts consider sleeping pills extremely dangerous for cats. Medicines can cause allergies, heart pathologies, and liver diseases in cats.
Medicines should only be used as a last resort if the haircut is carried out for the purpose of further treatment. The drugs are administered after preliminary consultation with a veterinarian. To calm an excited cat without anesthesia, the following measures are used:
- Applying a binder to the withers. The clamp is perceived by the animal as a mother's grip. The pet instinctively calms down.
- Application of a plastic collar. The device will protect the owner and helper from bites.
- Breaks between haircuts. After pausing the procedure, you should take the pet in your arms, calm it down and give it a small treat.
- Using a mechanical silent machine. However, using a manual trimmer will increase the time of the procedure and reduce its quality.
- Distraction with your favorite toy.
Under no circumstances should you:
- raise your voice;
- scold and beat your pet;
- allow other pets near the cat;
- tie paws.
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Size differences
Small devices that are easy to carry and hold in your hand are in demand among hobbyists. With their help, it is easy to shape the fur in hard-to-reach places on the pet’s body. Miniature models are often used in the armpits and joints. Freely trim any parts of the body, trim the muzzle perfectly.
The advantage is that small devices have blades up to two centimeters long. Ergonomics is another advantage. The disadvantages include the noise made during operation. Small clippers are not suitable for a full haircut, and the blades quickly become dull. They cost up to 3000 rubles.
Large devices are considered professional. For example, the most famous models of the Moser brand. They are reliable, powerful, the design is equipped with replaceable blocks and attachments, and they perfectly remove hair from curves and any parts of the body. Price – up to 4000 rubles. Large models also include Oster, a high-speed model. Price – up to 6500 rub.
Why cut a cat's hair?
The need for a haircut is determined by the owner. You can do without it, but you need to regularly take care of your body, comb it, preventing the formation of tangles. More often they affect Persian cats, whose hair structure is soft and its length reaches up to 10 cm.
Tangles that are close to the skin are very dangerous. This provokes inflammation of the integument, sometimes insects and parasites lay eggs under them. Therefore, long-haired cats need to be trimmed more often. Indications for hygienic trimming and shaving are:
- The neglected state of the cat's hair is matted, covered with tangles, and difficult to comb. This prevents the access of air, which provokes the development of inflammation and skin tightness. The animal begins to gnaw out the tangles and swallows them. Bald spots and covering injuries form on the body.
- Heat - to avoid overheating.
- When the cover gets dirty quickly, it rolls up in clumps. They cause inconvenience and cause pain when the hair is pulled.
- To make caring for a sick or old cat easier.
- The pile is stained with indelible materials (paint and varnish, polyurethane foam, adhesive solutions, fuel oil). When dirty lumps of lint enter the stomach during licking, this can cause gastrointestinal problems and poisoning.
- In long-haired animals, the hairs in the perineum and under the tail are cut to prevent excrement from sticking.
- Prolonged shedding.
- Family members have severe allergies.
Indications for medicinal purposes:
- severe damage by parasites - lice, fleas;
- preoperative preparation;
- dermatitis;
- infectious skin pathologies;
- high activity of the paraanal and sebaceous glands;
- the need to treat the skin with medications.
Decorative hairstyles and shaving are done for a photo shoot. To do this, choose fashionable haircuts. More often they are done before exhibitions and competitions.
Groomers have differing opinions about semi-longhaired cats. Their pile has a two-layer structure with an air gap. If it is disrupted, thermoregulation is disrupted. However, some veterinarians believe that these cats need to be shaved periodically to keep the coat renewed.
Rating of the best gadgets for working at home and what the price is
Not all amateur designs are inexpensive. The same applies to versatility, as well as other parameters. There are many devices on the market that can be used at home.
For home use Brofa 206B2
Brofa 206B2
Inexpensive network model with two speeds. The set includes replaceable blades; the device is suitable for cutting cats with medium-length fur. Disadvantage: Frequent sharpening of the blades is required. Price – 2000.
ZIVER-205
ZIVER-205
Corrective trimmer with a lithium-ion battery, including a hair trimmer, two attachments, an oiler, a brush, and a charger. The device is convenient for adjusting the length of fur on the paws, muzzle, tail, and ears. Price – 1700 rubles.
Small but comfortable Oster Cordless mini
Oster Cordless mini
Machine with nozzle 1 -1.5 mm. The kit includes an oil can and a brush. Designed for pets with short hair.
Battery operated. Designed for trimming and cutting hair in hard-to-reach parts of the body. Not used for basic haircuts. Cost – 1100 rubles.
Wireless GTS CW 301
GTS CW 301
A vibrating trimmer that runs on mains power and a battery. Power 5 W. Available with 30, 40 and 8 mm blades. The device has a reduced noise and vibration level, a powerful motor, a comb with four positions, and a charging indicator. Price – 1150 rubles.
How to trim a cat's fur?
If you decide to groom and don’t know how to cut a cat’s hair at home, then this step-by-step instruction will help you. Step 1. Choose a place for cutting. It is better to cut the animal in a room where there are no carpets. Trying to remove large amounts of cat hair from your carpet with a regular vacuum cleaner can be a pain, not to mention the hairs will clog the dust collector.
Choose a wide window sill or table as your workplace. Step 2: Prepare the area Cover a windowsill or table with a couple of old towels or a blanket. This will add a little cushioning, which will make the grooming process more comfortable for the cat, and will protect the surface of the table/window sill from cat scratches.
Find the nearest outlet and plug in the trimmer. The distance should be sufficient to allow the device cord to sag and provide room for maneuver. Step 3.
Bring the cat to the prepared area Before you begin grooming, let the cat get comfortable in the place. Give him a treat and petting him for a few minutes will calm him down and allow you to spot tangles and dirty areas.
Step 4: Remove the claws To do this, hold the paw in one hand and gently press on the cat's finger to pull out the claw. Remove only the sharp tips, avoiding the epithelial tissue that protects the claw.
Clipped Siamese catImportant! A short-trimmed claw will cause pain in the cat, and damage to the epithelial tissue is traumatic. If you are unable to trim your nails yourself, contact a professional groomer or veterinarian.
Advice! Trim your nails a day or two before trimming. If you do everything at once, the cat will get nervous.
Step 5. Comb your pet Comb the scruff of the neck, back and belly with a slicker brush. You will probably need a helper to gently hold your cat while you brush the belly area. Brush the paws and tail with a wide-tooth comb.
The following steps should be taken if the animal has matted fur or mats:
- Remove tangles using a slicker brush. Hold the matted fur to avoid stretching the skin, which can be very painful for the cat. This will take a few minutes. If you can't comb the problem area of fur, use blunt-tipped scissors to cut it off.
Important! Make sure that when cutting the mat you do not catch the skin with scissors (in cats it is very thin and easily injured).
- Rub a small amount of cornstarch into the problem area and comb it out after a while. This will help dry out the dirt on the coat.
Step 6. Cut the cat's hair If you want the hairs to be a little longer, cut in the direction of growth of six. In short - against the grain. To create a lion haircut, start from the back and sides. Glide the trimmer in a straight line from the root of the tail to the head.
Attention! Trim carefully, without pinching the skin - this can injure the animal.
After each pass with the machine, remove any hair from the blades. Stop periodically to remove the trimmed fur from the cat. This will make it easier for you to see the missed areas. Keep your cat's skin taut all the time to avoid injury to the skin.
Mei Coon with Lion Cut Once you have trimmed the fur on the back and sides, lay the cat on his side and comb the fur on his belly. While your assistant holds the cat, carefully trim the fur around the nipples, genitals, and the rest of the tummy.
When cutting the tail, leave the fur on only the last quarter of the tail. However, not all cats like to trim this part of their body. Therefore, in order not to irritate the animal, do not cut the tail at all. The hair on the paws is usually not cut (or down to the knee/elbow joint).
Step 7. Form the mane Leave the withers, part of the back and belly uncut - this way you will form the mane “like a lion”. After grooming, wipe the area with a damp cloth to remove any cut fur.
Step 8. Grooming is complete, pet the cat and give him a treat.
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Rating of the best professional tools and how much they cost
Professional devices are distinguished by the fact that grooming specialists can handle them. Skillful handling of the device is the key to a quality haircut. There are various models on the market both in cost and functionality. By power they are divided as follows:
- 15 W – soft-haired breeds;
- 15 – 30 W – for cats with thick fur;
- more than 45 W – coarse and fluffy wool.
Professional devices can be networked, battery operated, or have a combined power supply. The types of motors also differ: it can be vibration and rotary.
Elegant and strict Moser 1400-0075
Moser 1400-0075
The device is from a German manufacturer. The set includes tools and attachments. The device is convenient to use and store. The machine has a classic design, powerful and high quality. Price – 4000 rubles.
Professional tool OSTER Grooming Kit 220 W
OSTER Grooming Kit 220 W
The device is designed for grooming cats with short hair. It is used not only in salons, but also at home. Despite the relatively high price, it is quite popular. Price – 5500 rubles.
Excellent ZIVER-209
ZIVER-209
The device operates autonomously on mains power and on battery power for up to six hours. The advantage is that it is used for all types of fur, so it is universal. Cost – 6000 rubles.
The choice of many professionals WAHL 1247-0477
WAHL 1247-0477
The machine works from the network. Easy to use, stylish appearance. There are two speed modes, it can work silently. The downside is that you will have to buy attachments separately. Price - 11,000 rubles.
Is it possible to shave a cat bald?
The answer to the question whether it is necessary and whether it is possible to cut a cat’s fur will be both “yes” and “no”. You definitely can’t completely shave a cat. But a 3 mm haircut is sometimes indicated. There are situations in which a cat needs to be shaved. These are, first of all, medical indications for such a procedure as a hygienic haircut:
- foci of fungus and other skin infections;
- a large number of tangles, when it is easier to shave them than to cut them out;
- weeping wounds and ulcers: shaving in such cases is indicated on the affected areas to make it easier to apply medications;
- the animal became so dirty that it was impossible to wash it off;
- shaving certain areas before surgery and ultrasound;
- the animal sheds heavily and swallows a huge amount of hair, which creates a threat of blockage of the gastrointestinal tract: in this case, you can shave until the cause of excessive shedding is eliminated.
Shaving, indeed, allows you to stop severe shedding when the house is literally drowning in fur. This helped in our situation: we went to the groomers with a request to comb out the hair, but in the end they solved the problem completely. Naturally, if the cat is prone to such shedding, as soon as the fur grows back and the season comes, the problem will arise again. Those. shaving, in fact, does not solve the problem, but only hides it: short hairs continue to fall out, but this is no longer noticeable.
What happens if you shave a cat's head directly depends on the color and individual mental traits of the cat, as well as on the conditions in which it lives. For example, smoke-colored cats are cut and shaved with great care, but color-point cats should not be cut or shaved. Many who are reading these lines now will object, they say, they have points, they were shaved - and everything is fine. Yes, some points are fine. But in the classic version, the points darken after that. Tested on mine and many other cats. Smoky and tipped colors also run the risk of deterioration.
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As for other conditions, many cats have a psychologically difficult time with the shaving process and its consequences. And also, because In cats, after shaving, the heat exchange that is maintained by the hair is disrupted; in the first time after the procedure, the cat may freeze, even despite the warmth around.
Why can't they be used on people?
Cat clippers are more powerful and aggressive, as they are designed for a different level of hair density. If in some cases it is acceptable to use ordinary devices for pets, then it is not possible for a person to cut their hair with a device intended for our little brothers. Knives, attachments and blades are made taking into account the anatomical features of cats.
It is unacceptable to use machines that have already been in use, even if they are cleaned after the procedure. There is a possibility of infection from a cut; such actions are dangerous and can lead to serious consequences.
If the cat is injured
If it was not possible to avoid injury from scissors or clippers when grooming a cat, immediate measures must be taken to eliminate the consequences:
- wipe the cut area with a disinfectant;
- apply healing ointment with a bandage or plaster; it is better to use a bandage so that the pad does not fall off when moving.
In case of deep and lacerated wounds, surgical intervention is required - it is better to take the cat to the veterinarian or call a doctor at home. Eye damage is especially dangerous; in this situation, consult a doctor immediately.
Terms of use
Before using the machine, you must first carefully study the instructions, which are always included in the package. It is recommended to turn on the device, check the operation of the speeds and attachments. It is important to ensure that the machine does not get too hot during the process. Cats have sensitive skin, and hot blades can frighten them.
Advice! When cutting the wool with a device, the skin is stretched. They do this carefully, preferably with outside help. The machine moves in the direction of hair growth. You cannot bring the device too close to the skin, there is a risk of touching it and causing an inflammatory process.
You should not cut your hair with the device yourself in dangerous places. For partial cutting, use size 10 blades. How to trim a cat completely, but leave the fur on its head? It is necessary to perform a set of actions.
- They start from the back. First cut the base of the tail using a size ten blade. In this case, move the machine against the growth of the fur. Hair is cut to the scalp.
- Next they move to the chest. They cut it up to the belly, moving the device in the direction of growth, then turn the device around and move against it.
- While keeping the hair on the head, you can leave the tip on the tail or trim it completely. The clipper is passed to the base of the tail, alternately cutting off the fur on all sides.
- Then the armpits and paws are trimmed. They are pulled out, the skin is stretched. They cut according to hair growth, and then against it.
- Remove fur from the hind legs, moving down and up.
- Finally, the hairs on the neck are removed against the direction of their growth.
After completing the procedure, the device is cleaned and the blades are disinfected with alcohol. Store in packaging.
How to trim a cat's hair at home: instructions
Below is the sequence of actions that you need to follow:
- First of all, shorten your cat's claws using special pliers. Tools should be disinfected first. Afterwards, lightly press on the pet’s paw pad and carefully and at the same time quickly remove the claws without touching the skin. Thanks to this, you will be able to protect yourself from pet aggression and scratches during a haircut.
- If the haircut is being done for the first time, it is advisable to use the help of a second person who will gently hold the cat from the sides. Some animals will behave quite aggressively. For such individuals, veterinary clinics sell special plastic collars that allow you to fix the cat's head in one position and prevent it from biting. As for the limbs, you still have to hold them.
- After the animal is laid on its side and its paws are securely fixed, the machine can be used. Start removing hair from the sides, being careful and leisurely. If the cat feels the owners' anxiety, it will also experience stress and begin to break out and scratch.
- After the sides you need to move on to the back and stomach. Particular attention is paid to cats with mammary glands: if you use scissors, it is important not to injure this sensitive area, so try to relax the animal as much as possible. You can move both with the growth of the fur and against it.
- It is recommended to remove the remaining hairs with small scissors, since sliding the machine over the animal’s skin is not worth it: this causes discomfort and microtrauma.
- During the procedure, lightly pull the animal's skin, especially if the cutting is done with scissors. This will prevent cuts.
- At home, the tail and paws are usually left untouched, but if you wish, you can shave the hair off the tail with a clipper, leaving a small brush at the end (this is an excellent option for show breeds).
- At the end of the procedure, the cat should be washed in warm water; if desired, a small amount of mild animal shampoo should be added to the water. Next, the pet is dried with a hairdryer, which is set to the most silent setting.
What should you use to cut your hair with - a machine or scissors? If you want your pet to look really attractive and neat, it is recommended to alternate the use of scissors and clippers. With scissors, you simply trim what the automatic device could not remove. Grooming long-haired animals exclusively with scissors will be long, dangerous, and the result may not be neat enough.
Is it possible to cut wet wool? If you use a machine, it can be used on dry animal skin. Decided to make do with scissors? In this case, it is recommended to slightly wet the fur and comb it thoroughly: this way it will be easier for you to remove unnecessary hair. Regardless of the breed, you should not cut the animal too short (it is better to leave a couple of millimeters of fur). Thanks to this, you will ensure normal thermoregulation and, in addition, avoid injury to the skin.
Care
The machine does not require special care. The main requirement for long service is cleanliness.
- After every six haircuts, the cooled device is turned off and cleaned with a damp cloth.
- Before grooming the cat, you need to wash it, then the clipper will last longer and will not become clogged with dirt.
- It is recommended to purchase cleaning solutions for the device and attachments.
- Trimmer blades and knives are sharpened in a salon; this should not be done at home due to the high probability of damaging the device.
The steps are as simple as possible, but will help extend the life of the device.
What to do if you accidentally hurt your cat?
Sometimes even the most careful actions can lead to injury. What to do if the cat is still injured? You should have iodine or hydrogen peroxide with cotton swabs on hand. Apply a small amount of antiseptic solution to cotton wool and gently rub the skin around the cut to stop bleeding, you can press a dry cotton swab against the wound for a few minutes.
Please note: in such an unpleasant situation, you should not panic. It is advisable to calm the animal by telling it in a quiet voice the kind words that you are used to saying in a normal situation. While grooming, you should under no circumstances raise your voice to the cat or speak in a raised voice with your partner, make sudden movements, and especially not use physical force (we are talking about hitting, pinching and other actions).
Thus, grooming a cat at home using clippers and scissors is, first of all, a hygienic event aimed at maintaining a neat appearance of the pet. If you are going to prepare your cat for a show or other important event, it is recommended to schedule a decorative haircut with a professional groomer. In clinics, decorative haircuts for cats are done using light anesthesia or sedatives. However, it should be remembered that constant exposure to such medications can adversely affect the health of your pet.
Knives
Professional models are equipped with different types of attachments and blades. Tools are available in different lengths, starting from 1 mm. Knives can be ceramic or metal, made of stainless steel. Their specificity is that the manufacturer produces blades for a specific model.
Warning! Knife blocks, regardless of price, need proper care. Regular lubrication reduces friction, wear and heat, reducing stress on the device, motor and battery.
Most models have a quick-release blade block. It is easy to care for. After the procedure, it is cleaned with a brush, lubricated with oil, and then installed back. If the device does not have such a block, then the knives can be unscrewed independently using a screwdriver.
Cat clipper with replaceable working blades
Clean the top and bottom parts and lubricate the blades. After cleaning, turn on the machine for ten seconds. The device uses standard and thinning knives of A5 size, as well as attachments with a comb.
You cannot sharpen knives yourself; this is done by professionals. You can buy tools in specialized stores and on the Internet, taking into account the model of the device you are using.
What time of year do cats get their hair cut?
Attention! Pets that do not go outside can be groomed, regardless of the time of year. Animals that constantly run outdoors are usually trimmed before the onset of the summer heat.
None
Grooming of their pets has recently become popular among cat owners.
And since this service from professional “cat hairdressers” is not cheap, many owners are not averse to learning how to cut their cat’s hair themselves.
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Haircut options
You need to choose a clipper and type of haircut taking into account the characteristics of your pet: its coat, breed, behavior. Many owners believe that it is best to cut the fur short all over the body. Grooming experts note the popularity of this haircut option. In this case, the fur is left on the paws and head, including the tassels on the tail. They cut it with a machine, and then trim the hair with scissors.
Average length
The best option for medium length wool is to make it shorter. As a result, the cat is left with a length of one to three centimeters. The fur is not shaved, but trimmed; a special attachment is used for this.
The peculiarity of the haircut is that it reduces the number of hairs falling out and is a prevention of intestinal diseases. Before the procedure, a restrictor is put on the clipper, then the hair is cut behind the ears, on the back to the tail, shoulders and sides, belly and paws.
Long thick coat
Pets with long hair need special care. It often forms tangles due to the fact that cats wash themselves. As already mentioned, such tangles cause a lot of discomfort and can negatively affect health.
If you missed something and tangles appear on your pet’s fur, a special tangle cutter tool will help you. It is with its help that you need to remove the tangles and only then start cutting with a clipper.
Simply brushing your cat with a comb can help ease your cat's condition. For overweight cats and long-haired breeds, a partial haircut is suitable, for example, on the stomach to the armpits of the front legs and around the anus.
Smooth
If the coat is smooth, the cat may not need a full haircut. To do this, restrictive nozzles are used to remove tangles. You can also do a hygienic haircut, leaving a few millimeters of hair all over the body.
What toothpaste and brush are required for cats, their price and how often should you brush your teeth?
Tough
Wire-haired cats have three types of hairs. The fur of such pets is different in that it is not only hard to the touch, but also dense. In this case, an amateur haircut “puss in boots”, “lion’s mane”, that is, the whole body except the head, is suitable.
Atypical
If the coat is atypical and there are bald patches, then it is necessary to find out their cause. In the absence of skin diseases, a specialist should decide how best to trim the animal.
How does a cat change after a haircut?
Be prepared for the fact that after the procedure, the original coat color of long-haired animals will change somewhat (it will become a little darker or lighter). In some cases, haircuts also affect hair growth: it becomes more intense or slows down somewhat.
If this hygienic measure is carried out correctly, the cat’s behavior will not change, however, with rude and careless actions, the animal may experience severe stress, which will subsequently make it more fearful and distrustful of its owner.
What diseases can be detected
A haircut can help identify various diseases that the pet owner didn’t even know about. Skin diseases (lichen, eczema and others), an abundance of parasites are often discovered after the grooming procedure. It helps to get rid of many problems; in addition, short hair is better washed with medicated shampoos.
The appearance of bald patches, peeling of the skin, redness, high body temperature are symptoms that grooming specialists pay attention to. The most common diseases include problems associated with hair and skin. If your pet intensively combs, licks, or bites its fur, it is worth shortening it and examining the skin.
Bald spots and rashes can be caused by ticks, lice, and fleas. Ringworm, mycosis, is dangerous not only for cats, but also for humans. A haircut allows you to recognize the disease in time and begin treatment. Cats are also susceptible to cancer, the symptoms of which may include dull fur, spots on the skin, and swelling.
Which cats are contraindicated for trimming?
Experts do not recommend cutting smooth-haired cats. Their fur does not form tangles, and its complete absence will increase the risk of injury to the skin. It is contraindicated to trim cats if:
- The color of the animal is color point or tipping. After regrowth, the coat may change, and the cat will lose its unique color.
- It is contraindicated for the animal to be nervous. Some cats have medical conditions that make stress life-threatening. Grooming is not a natural process for a pet, so in most cases it makes him worry.
- The previous procedure had a negative impact on the pet's health.
- The cat lives in an area with high solar activity and spends a lot of time outside. By trimming a pet, the owner deprives him of protection from the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation.
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Expert advice
Before you cut your cat's hair, you need to decide whether it's worth doing at all. This is the first advice that a grooming master gives. If your pet's hairs have become tangled, it makes sense to perform this procedure. It is also indicated for allergies, vomiting hair, and severe shedding. Elderly, aggressive and sick cats should not be clipped due to the likelihood of stress and the risk of cuts.
The specialist reminds:
- You cannot use a clipper intended for humans for haircuts;
- It is forbidden to use a regular razor;
- if the procedure takes place at home, you need to find an assistant;
- choose a place for a haircut;
- comb your pet;
- decide how you will cut your hair.
During the procedure, it is important to ensure that the device does not heat up too much. It's better to take breaks. It is recommended to use a special lubricant for the blades, which facilitates the process. To cut the hair correctly, the skin is gently pulled. The movements of the device should be in the direction of hair growth.
Hold the machine so as to avoid contact with the skin. There is no need to put pressure on the device, nor do you need to bring it close to the skin - the ideal distance is two to three millimeters. Do not cut wool in dangerous places: in the area of tendons, pads, ligaments. It is not recommended to touch the fur on the front legs, muzzle, or above the eyes.
Choosing Cat Grooming Tools
The haircut can be carried out using scissors (medium size, sharp with rounded ends) or a clipper, preferably silent, so as not to frighten the pet. The latter method is more effective and safer - there is practically no possibility of injuring the animal, and the result is guaranteed: a uniform haircut with the ability to choose the desired length of fur.
Auxiliary tools:
- soft comb;
- textile;
- hydrogen peroxide or chlorhexidine (needed if you injure an animal);
- toys and treats;
- table (or other surface).
It is better to immobilize the cat during the procedure. For example, wear a special collar. It is better for the second person to hold the cat and calm it while the first haircut is performed.
If the animal is very aggressive, it is better to visit a veterinary clinic. In some cases, anesthesia may be needed. It is worth doing it only if there is no other option. For example, a cat is covered in tangles and it’s hard for him.
In what cases can you not do without a haircut?
Most owners have their own opinion about the indications for grooming a cat:
- getting rid of fur on furniture and carpets during seasonal shedding;
- allergies in the owner and family members (a shorn animal has less fluff, which causes an allergic reaction);
- prevention of overheating (in the summer, cats are hot due to their thick fur coat);
- solving problems with hair (it is easier to remove fleas, ticks, burrs).
Owning a representative of a long-haired breed while suffering from allergies, helping a pet in the heat, solving the problem of seasonal shedding - experts treat such wishes with irony. These are the whims of the owners, and not a real need. Professionals allow haircuts only in two cases:
- To get rid of large tangles. Matted fur causes pain and itching, and involuntary scratching of problem areas. When there is a massive accumulation of them, the cat is cut to relieve discomfort and prevent the development of dermatological diseases.
- As part of preoperative preparation. Before surgical interventions, the animal is not only cut short, but also shaved.
A cat’s beautiful hairstyle pleases its owners, not the cat itself. An incorrectly trimmed tail can even cause your pet to try to chew it off.
Haircut procedure
First of all, the cat must be secured on its side, holding the front and hind legs. If your pet is aggressive and bites, it is better to put a plastic collar on it during the procedure. You can also attach a binder (paper clip) to the back of your neck. At the same time, the cat falls into childhood, it seems to him that his mother is holding him in her teeth, and he behaves much calmer. Sometimes for overly excited cats, inhibitors, sedatives, sleeping pills or anesthesia are used during grooming. Such methods can be used only in extreme cases and always after passing the necessary examinations. But these are very unsafe methods! Never use them at home yourself. They can cause significant harm to your furry friend.
If there are tangles, you first need to trim them with scissors.
This must be done very carefully and slowly so as not to damage the animal’s skin. And then cut the back and sides with a clipper
You need to turn on the machine away from the cat so that its noise does not frighten the animal too much. Let the cat get used to the sound, only then can you start cutting. The skin should be slightly stretched so as not to injure it. Also, don’t forget about the attachment for the machine. It is better to choose at least 3 mm. If you use the machine without an attachment, you can injure your skin.
The fur from the belly should be trimmed slowly so as not to injure the nipples and intimate area. It is best to prepare these areas before machine cutting. Trim the hair around the nipples and intimate area so that these areas are clearly visible. Cats' tails can be trimmed at will. You can give it any shape that your imagination suggests, but you must leave at least a small brush at the tip of the tail. Otherwise, the cat will not recognize its tail and may bite it, causing pain to itself.
The cat is very aggressive
Grooming your pet can take a lot of your time, don't expect to get it done in half an hour.
If your cat is aggressive, bites and breaks out, it is better to trim its fur. The fur will remain longer, but this way you will avoid unnecessary aggression of the animal. Since cutting against the grain irritates the pet even more.
Several approaches are possible
Don't try to cut your pet's hair in one go. Take breaks and pet your pet to calm him down and help him endure an unpleasant procedure more easily. After a haircut, you also need to be gentle and friendly with the animal. You should not laugh loudly at your haircut during or after the procedure. Your animal may have a hard time accepting such an outburst of emotion from its owner.
