Kittens and cats are known for their cleanliness and spend a lot of time self-grooming but this doesn’t mean that you don’t have a part to play, not only does grooming your kitten help you to bond, it helps to reduce hairballs, control parasites and gives you the opportunity to check for any skin irritations.
Start gently and go slowly, stroking with your hand initially from head to tail and then introduce the brush – they may want to play with it, let them as it’s a new sensation for them. Brush with the hair and then against it to help remove loose hair – particularly in the spring and summer moulting season, gently teasing out any knots – do not pull, we don’t like it, so your kitten won’t either. Take your time, this experience is new to them and should be a positive one, when finished reward your kitten with some play or a treat to reinforce the positive experience.
As part of your grooming routine checking your kittens eyes, ears, teeth and claws is good practice and will familiarise your kitten with this sensation should you need to administer any medicines in the future or when they have a check up at the vets.
They should all be clean and clear.
Eyes – if a little weepy, use a clean damp cotton ball for each eye and gently remove any discharge. Ears - use a damp cloth to remove any dirt from the outer ear, do not insert anything into the ear. Teetch - like ours should be clean and clear of any deposits – don’t try and remove any as you risk damaging the teeth instead seek advice from your veterinary practice.
Claws - a scratching post will encourage natural behaviour, help to keep the claws in good condition and save your furniture! As they grow, claws may need to be clipped which should be done with advice and guidance from your vet, however as kittens getting them familiar with their paws being handled could save some anxiety later.
