Cat Coat & Nail Care | How to Do it & Tips

Picture this: you’re relaxing on the couch, and your cat, who looks like she’s had a tussle with a tumbleweed, jumps up next to you. Her fur is a tangled mess, and her claws could probably be used to scale a wall. You definitely don’t want to be known as the owner of the “cat whose grooming habits are out of control.” But don’t sweat it! Keeping your cat’s coat and nails in shape doesn’t have to be a huge hassle. With a few easy tricks and the right tools grooming can be a breeze. In this blog, we'll explain everything about 'cat coat care' (just try saying that 10x in a row - I bet you can't!).

Types of cat furs

Cats come in various shapes and sizes, and so do their coats. Generally, there are two main types of coats: short hair and (semi)long hair. Each type has its own grooming needs.

Short-Haired Cats 

These cats have a shorter, dense coat that is usually easier to maintain. Daily brushing isn’t necessary, but doing it once a week is a good idea to remove loose hairs and prevent skin irritations.

Long-Haired Cats 

By understanding your cat's coat type, you can use the right grooming products and techniques to keep her coat in top shape.

Why Cat Coat Care matters

Skin Issues

Coat care isn’t just about appearances—it's key to your cat’s health. Regular brushing prevents tangles and matting, which can lead to discomfort and skin issues. Plus, brushing helps you spot potential problems like sores or parasites early on.

Natural Oils

Grooming also spreads natural oils across your cat’s coat, making it shiny and keeping her skin healthy. It’s a great way to bond with your kitty and can be quite relaxing for both of you.

Dealing with Hairballs

Long-haired cats often have a battle with hairballs. These pesky clumps of fur form in the stomach when your cat swallows loose hair while grooming. The result? Coughing, hacking, and sometimes even a mess on your floor. But don’t worry! Regular brushing can help cut down on the amount of hair your cat swallows.

Diet and Hairballs

If hairballs are a recurring issue, it might be time to tweak your cat’s diet. High-fiber foods can help move hairballs through the digestive tract more smoothly. Specially formulated hairball control cat foods can also be a big help. 

Hairball Remedies 

There are plenty of hairball remedies and supplements out there designed to make things easier for your cat. These products help break down hairballs and make them easier to pass. 

What do you need for effective coat care?

To properly care for your cat’s coat, you need the right tools and products. What you need depends on your cat’s coat type and specific needs.

Brush for Cats

For short-haired cats, rubber brushes or brushes with soft bristles do very well. Long-haired cats often require a pin brush or slicker brush to prevent tangling. It’s a good idea to clean the brush regularly for the best results. This is our top pick.

Cat Comb 

A comb with fine teeth is useful for removing loose hairs and dirt, especially for cats with a dense undercoat. For long-haired cats, a wide-tooth comb may come in handy to untangle knots without damaging the coat.

Scissors for Your Cat 

Sometimes, you need to carefully trim away tangles. Use scissors with rounded tips to avoid injuring your cat. Also, grab some nail clippers to keep those claws in check.  to trim away those sharp, long claws. 

Cat Shampoo 

The best shampoo is a mild shampoo specifically formulated for cats. Avoid human or dog shampoos, as they can irritate your cat’s sensitive skin. If your cat has specific skin issues, consult your vet for a recommendation on a suitable medicated shampoo.

Read more about the best tools in this article, where we explain the best brushes, combs, scissors, trimmers, shampoo's and more for your cat.

How to Care for Your Cat’s Coat

Good coat care involves more than just brushing. Here are a few additional tips on how to best care for your cat’s coat:

Brushing Your Cat 

Brushing is a key part of coat care. It helps remove loose hairs, prevents tangles, and stimulates blood circulation. For short-haired cats, once a week is usually sufficient. Long-haired cats need daily attention to avoid tangles.

How to Brush Your Cat?

Always brush in the direction of hair growth to avoid discomfort and skin irritation. Start at the head and work your way to the tail. Don’t forget the belly and legs. This makes brushing more comfortable for your cat and helps remove dirt and loose hairs effectively.

Bathing Your Cat 

Cats groom themselves, but sometimes they need a bath. This might be needed if your cat gets into something dirty or has a skin condition that requires special shampoo. Use a cat-formulated shampoo for the best results.

How to Prepare Your Cat for a Bath 

Have everything ready: a soft towel, cat shampoo, and a gentle brush. Fill the bath or sink with lukewarm water to a comfortable level.

How to Bathe Your Cat 

Wet your cat’s coat thoroughly, apply a small amount of shampoo, and gently massage it in. Be extra careful around the eyes, ears, and nose. Rinse thoroughly to make sure no shampoo is left behind.

Do You Need to Dry Your Cat?

After the bath, it’s important to dry your cat. Use a soft towel to blot out most of the water. If your cat tolerates it, you can use a special cat blow dryer on a low, cool setting—just make sure it’s not too loud or hot.

Nail Clipping

Trimming your cat’s nails is also an important aspect of grooming. Long nails can be uncomfortable for your cat and may damage furniture. It's not needed for every cat and you don't need to do it often as cats already take care of their nails naturally - they love to care for themselves, don't they! ;)

Use a special cat nail clipper and cut only the transparent part of the nail to avoid pain and bleeding. If you’re unsure of your technique, take a look at our article explaining everything about nail trimming your cat.

The Right Diet for a Healthy Cat Fur

A healthy coat starts with a good diet. After all, you are what you eat - that also applies to your cat. By giving your cat a balanced diet and regular grooming, you’ll help keep her healthy and her coat in top condition. 

Essential Fatty Acids 

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are important for a shiny coat and healthy skin. These fatty acids are found in fish oil and flaxseed oil, and they are often already added to our high-quality cat food.

High-Quality Proteins 

Proteins like chicken, fish, or lamb help build and repair skin and hair. Make sure the food you choose has plenty of high-quality proteins. A good option would be the BARFmenu 100% meat sausages, which are both high-quality and budget-friendly.

Vitamins and Minerals 

Vitamins such as A, E, and B, along with minerals like zinc, are essential for a healthy skin and coat. These nutrients are found in well-balanced cat food, such as the Acana Cat Wild Prairie.