cat | 1 Min Read

A Guide To Brushing Your Cat

Cats are truly skilled at the art of self-care. They are armed with a bristly tongue that acts like a brush as it works through their coat. For the most part, grooming is a calming behaviour for cats as well, which means they are happy to spend a lot of time doing it.

Sometimes they can go overboard and groom themselves too much - this can happen due to parasites, skin irritants and even anxiety. Over-grooming can lead to hair loss, secondary infections and excessive ingestion of hair.

Even though our cats are independent and act like the rulers in our household, we servant-humans play an important role in keeping our cat’s skin and coat healthy. Daily brushing will help remove loose hair, dirt and debris, which means there is less work for your cat to do. When we brush them, we reduce the amount of hair ingested, which can lead to less hairballs and less hair shed around your home. 

Long-haired cats need regular brushing to help reduce knots and tangles. Brushing also helps spread the natural coat oils and stimulates the blood circulation in the skin. The result: healthy skin and a smooth, shiny coat. And you’ll get to spend more time with your cat, once they realise that brushing actually feels good. It’s also a great way for you to pick up on any potential health issues early on, such as changes in weight, skin abnormalities, lumps or parasites.


CAT Slicker Brush

A useful tool for most coat types, these Rakes will clean, remove loose undercoat, stimulate blood flow and increase natural coat oils.

ONLY $24
ADD TO CART SHOP NOW
ADD TO CART SHOP NOW

It’s important to choose a brush that suits your cat’s coat type and use gentle strokes to avoid hurting them. Keep brushing sessions short and positive, use treats where possible and gradually increase the time spent brushing as your cat becomes more tolerant. Brush their coat in the direction of hair growth, taking care around sensitive areas like the belly and tail. And if you encounter any tangles, use a comb to carefully work them out. Never attempt to cut out a knot because cats have thin skin that can be accidentally cut. Instead, visit your vet or professional groomer to help remove these stubborn knots. 

So while cats are experts in self-pampering, their humble human attendants have a role to play too. Choose the right brush, be gentle and positive, and gradually increase brushing time to help strengthen the bond with your feline friend. And in doing so you’ll help keep them (and their skin and coat) healthy and happy.

4 Min Read

How Cat Food Toppers Can Transform Mealtime for Fussy Eaters

You've opened four different pouches. You've tried warming the bowl. You've even attempted the casual "I don't care if you eat it" pretend-walk-away. And still, your cat sniffs their dinner and leaves the room like it personally offended them. Fussy eating is one of the most common concerns cat parents raise with vets. The good news? Cat food toppers can make a real, practical difference. Here's why it happens and how to fix it. Key Takeaways Cat fussiness is largely biological, not just behavioural Skipping meals long-term carries real health risks Food toppers work by boosting aroma, palatability, and nutrition Look for...
5 Min Read

Does My Dog Need a Hypoallergenic Shampoo?

Your dog scratches after baths, their skin looks a little red, and you're not sure if the shampoo is making things better or worse. Could your dog have sensitive skin, and would a hypoallergenic shampoo help?  Understanding what hypoallergenic dog shampoo is, whether your dog actually needs one, and what the hypoallergenic dog shampoo benefits really are can save you a lot of guesswork and wasted money (and your dog a lot of discomfort). Key Takeaways Hypoallergenic dog shampoos are formulated to minimise common irritants like synthetic fragrances, dyes, parabens, and sulphates Several signs suggest your dog may benefit from switching, including...
3 Min Read

How to Clean Your Dog's Skin and Coat: Wipes vs. Washing

That classic dog smell. We all know it. Instinct says: bath time. But before you reach for the shampoo, this dog wash guide is here to make the case for slowing down – because washing your dog less (and doing it smarter) is usually the better call. Quick Tips Dog skin pH sits between 6.2–7.4, which is more alkaline than human skin. And because it’s also significantly thinner, it needs a gentler approach. Most people don’t realise that over-washing with harsh shampoos can result in a dull, dry, stinky coat and poor skin health - a wash every 6-8 weeks...
SHOW ALL POST

Got a question?

Can’t find an answer on our blog? Click here to ask Dr Lisa.