> Care
Grooming
By Steve Dale
Steve
Dale's Pet World
In
essence, when you brush your cat, you're grooming it. Teaching
spooked adult cats to enjoy the experience is a time-consuming
procedure, but one worth the effort.
There are too many cats whose owners have tried to force the
issue, making an already fearful cat absolutely horrified. The
next step is a professional groomer who muzzles the animal or just
shaves it. Either choice is extremely stressful. Besides, what's
the point of owning a beautiful long-haired cat with a "buzz
cut?"
Begin your desensitization program by simply showing the cat its
brush. That's all. Later, pick up the brush. That's all. Next
step, nonchalantly touch the cat with the brush as you play or
offer a food reward. By the way, tuna and/or sardines are the best
way to convince many cats to do nearly anything. (Don't overdo
these calcium-rich gifts.) Finally, take a tentative stroke, again
as you're distracting the cat with play or treats. You get the
idea. Take it really slow. If the cat balks, back up; you've gone
too fast. This process may take months, so be patient.
Kittens can be taught to enjoy the process of grooming through the
same methods. Some cats delight in the procedure so much that when
an owner opens the cabinet where the brushes are kept, they come
running, just like they do upon hearing the electric can opener.
Aside from the practical advantage of removing dead hair -- so not
as much of it winds up on your couch -- frequent brushing is good
for a cat's skin, and it enhances the bond and the trust between
your pet and you.
back
to top
|
