Stream Valley Veterinary Hospital Â© 2012 / A Spa Day for Tom and Tabby

A Spa Day for Tom and Tabby

by Shannon M. Pecora, MA

Stream Valley Veterinary Hospital

After an unbelievably hot summer, we can finally be thankful for the fall season’s cooler weather. And many folks could use a break from constantly running the vacuum as their pets shed tons of fur due to the heat. Instead, dogs and cats are building up thick winter coats, so they often need some extra attention to keep that fur clean and manageable. Visit a grooming salon, and you’re likely to see the kennels, tubs, and tables full of dogs receiving baths, brush-outs, and/or haircuts, while many cat owners feel their only option is to make time for regular at-home brushings.

However, many groomers have the training and experience to give your kitty the salon treatment, too. As much as cats notoriously hate water, they benefit from a good bath on occasion (and some actually enjoy it!), supplementing their own self-grooming practices. Particularly for those with thick or long coats, gentle blow-drying, brushing, and trimming help prevent tangles, matts, and associated skin irritation.

You may be worried about how your cat will behave at the groomer or how fearful she will be of the experience, but asking some questions and even touring a facility ahead of time may ease your concerns. Don’t forget to ask your veterinary staff if your cat is properly vaccinated and protected as well. Then, go ahead and ask a prospective groomer how much experience he or she has with felines. Can the salon offer you examples or even references for previous work? You may feel better if cats can be kenneled on the other side of the salon from dogs. Can the fronts of the kennels be covered to muffle noises and block out potentially frightening views of rambunctious puppies?

If you feel comfortable with the prospect of a professional grooming for your cat, make an appointment today! You could be surprised at how even the most fastidious self-grooming kitty can look and feel so much better after a great “spa day!”