Most pets love grooming, especially those with lots of hair. Not only does it make them happy, but it also has positive effects on their health. Professional grooming not only saves you time and energy, but it serves as a fast checkup. The thicker your pet's coat, the more crucial professional grooming becomes.
How Professional Grooming Benefits You Pet's Health
While most people think of brushes and bows when hearing the term pet grooming, it is also vital for their overall health and well-being. It is just as important as taking your pet to the vet for health checkups. Grooming involves cleanliness and maintenance and helps protect their physical health.
Regular grooming by a professional allows them to spot any inflammations or infections by checking your pet's teeth, ears, nails, and eyes. Catching these signs early helps you take necessary actions to cure your pet before the symptoms become serious.
Not all animals enjoy the grooming process if they are not used to it. For example, nail clipping and ear cleaning require a pet to stay still throughout the process. Start professional grooming while your pet is young, as an essential part of training as they mature.
Some of the top benefits of pet grooming include:
- Brushing: While brushing is not the only part of grooming, it is a large part of the process. Regular brushing removes dead hairs, dandruff, and dirt, decreasing the number of hairballs that your pet may ingest. It also helps avoid hair tangles, which may cause pain or infection. It stimulates the natural oils in your pets' fur, leaving the coat with a glossy and healthy sheen. Brushing can also reveal bald and dry patches as well as ticks and fleas.
- Nail Clipping: For many dogs, if their sharp nails are not frequently trimmed, it can cause pain and, eventually, serious injury. Regular trims reduce the likelihood of in-grown nails and the risk of injury from getting caught in carpet or upholstery. For older pets, nail trimming is useful for easing arthritis and other joint pain.
- Bathing: It is essential to realize that too much or too little bathing may harm your pet's health. Bathing pets too often strips the natural oils from their skin, making it dry and itchy. If you wash your pet less than necessary, it makes them susceptible to germs! Depending on your pet's breed, their bathing schedule and suitable products should be determined by a professional.
- Ears: For certain breeds, ears can be a significant concern. Some are more susceptible to parasites and infection and need to have their ears cleaned and checked regularly. Ears need to be clean and odor-free, always. If anything looks red, swollen, or has an unpleasant smell, your pet will need to see a vet for an immediate consultation. Ears might also show signs of infestation by mites or ticks!
- Eyes: Trimming hair around the eyes may help your pet stay free from eye infections. Always make sure your pet's eyes are bright and clear. If your pet has watery eyes or they look sore, you should have your pet checked by the veterinarian.
- Teeth: Brushing an animal's teeth regularly is the only way to help combat periodontal disease. If your pet has bad breath, it is a sure sign of a dental problem. Your vet can recommend special pet toothbrushes and toothpaste to support your pet's oral health.
Differences Between Dog and Cat Grooming
Grooming your pet can be quite an experience. Cats are generally more self-possessed and independent compared to dogs, specifically when it comes to grooming. The one thing both pets have in common is they both require your assistance to be clean. Despite the difficulties, your love and patience will certainly pay off when you see your pet healthy and happy.
Some of the main differences between grooming a dog and grooming a cat include:
Self-Grooming
If you haven't noticed, cats are better at self-grooming than dogs. They seem to take personal grooming seriously. On the other hand, dogs might not seem interested in grooming at all. While cats may spend hours licking their fur, dogs can go around matted and muddy without any concern.
Whether your pet is a cat or a dog, you can help with their grooming. For cats, brush their fur with a special hairbrush to help remove dead hair and distribute skin oils. For dogs, they need to be given a bath at least once or twice a month. If your dog likes to roam outdoors, they will need to bathe more often. Bathing will help you remove parasites like ticks and fleas.
Nail Trimming
In terms of cleanliness, cats' nails are always clean since it is part of a cat's self-grooming, while dogs usually use their nails to dig holes in the dirt. That's why it becomes essential to trim your dog's nails to avoid them snagging on furniture fabric or your clothes when they jump on you. However, if you're afraid of cutting too short, it is better to have the professional groomer do this task.
Teeth Brushing
When dogs and cats have their teeth brushed at a young age, they can be more receptive to the process. However, it gets harder if you introduce toothbrushing to adult pets. Generally speaking, brushing your dog's teeth may be fun compared to trying with a cat. Most dogs enjoy teeth brushing. However, cats may require the help of a professional.
You should avoid using human toothpaste as it can cause digestive problems if your dog or cat tries to swallow it. Use veterinary toothpaste to brush your pet's teeth, be it a cat or a dog.
Give Your Pet the Excellent Care They Deserve
Grooming plays an integral role in keeping your pet healthy. At Pet Medical Center of San Antonio, Dr. Scott Weeks strives to answer your questions and help you take exceptional care of your furry friend. Call today and schedule your pet's consultation.