Grooming your dog or cat can be quite difficult since many pets resist going to the vet. They fear the white coat, the lights, and the whole ambulance environment. And, that makes the grooming impossible. That’s why many pet owners decide to groom their pets at home.
If your pet also detests going to the vet or doesn’t want to get touched by anyone but you, at-home grooming is your best option. Otherwise, your home will soon be flooded with hair, the floors and furniture scratched, and even you and your family may get harmed by accidental meetings with your pet’s long nails.
How to Prepare Your Pet for At-Home Grooming?
Pets freak out when they see the grooming gear. That’s why it’s important to take time to make them feel comfortable around the gear.
To do that, put the gear in a place visible to your pet. This will help them get familiar with the tools and accept them as part of their life. If there are electric tools in your grooming gear, turn them on frequently so that your pet can get used to the sound.
Make Sure You Have the Right Grooming Tools for Your Pet
Dogs and cats have similar grooming gear, but the tools differ in terms of size and features since they are made for a specific kind of pet, not all. Before purchasing the pet grooming gear, ask your vet to tell you which tools you need to properly groom your pet. Depending on their hair length, type, and thickness and their nails’ thickness, you will need different kinds of combs and nail clippers.
How to Groom Your Pet Step-by-Step?
1. Start with Brushing Your Pet’s Coat
Use a brush, a deshedding tool, or a dematting comb to brush your pet’s coat gently. This will help remove dirt from their coat, spread the natural oils throughout their coat, and keep their skin clean. It’s also great for checking whether there are ticks, fleas, and parasites.
2. Cut Your Pet’s Hair
If your dog or cat has longer hair, you need to cut several inches every grooming to maintain its length.
3. Bath Your Pet
Use special shampoo for your pet and a pet conditioner if they have long hair. Don’t forget to put a cotton ball in their ears before the bathing to keep them dry.
4. Clean Your Pet’s Ears
Use a special ear cleaner and a cotton ball to clean your pet’s ears. Do it slowly and gently.
5. Brush Your Pet’s Teeth
Use a toothbrush or a finger toothbrush and a pet-safe toothpaste to clean your pet’s teeth. This helps keep their teeth healthy and clean and prevents dental disease.
6. Trim Your Pet’s Nails
Use a nail clipper or nail grinder, depending on their nails’ length and thickness. You can choose between manual and electric clippers/grinders based on which one is more convenient for you.
Final Thoughts
Grooming your pet at home is a great option for pets that are too scared to go to the vet. It’s also more comfortable for them because you are their groomer, not a stranger. But, before you groom your pet, make sure they are comfortable with bathing and using grooming tools on them.