Ask the Expert: Cat Grooming

Your Pet Question:

How often should I brush my long-haired cat to keep its fur from matting?

Craig Segal, Ile Perrot, Quebec

The Expert Says:

Cats’ rough tongues help them remove dirt and loose hairs, so they are pretty self-sufficient cleaners. But self-cleaning doesn’t necessarily stop matting, so it’s always good to brush your cat. It’s best to start brushing them when they are very young so that they get used to it.

Any cat will benefit from brushing a few times a week, or daily. However, not all cats tolerate brushing all over their bodies, and in some cases, owners should consult a cat groomer or a vet when fur gets matted. If they are unable to groom her, they might decide to shave her under anesthetic.

Dr. Patricia Glass, DVM, owner of Clinique Vétérinaire Patricia Glass, in Mont-Temblant, QC