Aunt Stacey,

My vet has ordered that my cat be kept shaved because of severe hair balls that block his intestinal tract.  We’ve tried several medicines and they help, but don’t solve the problem.  I need to learn to shave him myself.  I’ve watched several videos (including your’s) and  have picked up a lot of tips.  But I really don’t want to traumatize him more than necessary and he won’t hold still at all.  Any suggestions?

Thank you!
Sylvia

Hi Sylvia,

Thank you for reaching out to me. I’m sorry to hear your kitty has suffered from hair balls. As you know, that poses a very serious health concern. I agree with your veterinarian that keeping the coat short should provide some much needed relief considering the other efforts aren’t solving the issue.

While I applaud your desire to want to help your cat, it is typically extremely challenging and dangerous for an inexperienced person to clip a cat’s coat. Cats are very agile and strong. They are also adverse to cooperating with anything that doesn’t immediately serve them or that may be interpreted as threatening. It’s no surprise to me that your cat won’t hold still or cooperate with your efforts. It’s not a simple task.

Hands-on training is the best way to learn proper clipping and handling techniques. In addition, specific tools are appropriate for cats. You didn’t mention where you’re located, but I would suggest you contact a local groomer to inquire about private training. In my career as a professional cat groomer, I’ve seen far too many injuries from home grooming gone wrong. Many times, the well-intentioned cat guardians didn’t even realize they had injured their cat. Cat skin is thin and loosely attached to muscle. That means it tears very easily. A small nick can turn into a large gash requiring veterinary attention.

Considering your cat will need to have his coat clipped about every 8 weeks or so, it’s to everyone’s benefit that the experiences be positive. Otherwise, he will most likely become more defiant and difficult over time. Regardless of the circumstance, compassionate and gentle handling must always be used. Rewards like yummy treats, positive praise, and thoughtful petting can go a long way in helping cats tolerate grooming.

I must add, when clipped short your cat needs to be kept indoor unless supervised outside. Without protection, the skin is susceptible to sunburn and injury. Cats also need their coats for thermoregulation, the ability to adjust their internal body temperature. Cats, like people, have varying preferences. If your cat shows obvious signs of not enjoying the shorter style, more options should be considered. When praised for looking like such a magnificent and gorgeous lion, cats often respond with a properly inflated ego, soaking up the attention and prancing around showing off.

I’m based in the San Francisco Bay Area and offer private training. If I can be of further assistance, please let me know.

Wishing you the best of luck!

Purrs,

Click the links below to watch Aunt Stacey demonstrate various clipping techniques and share expert advice on safety and gentle handling. If you enjoy the videos, subscribe to her YouTube channel for updates.

• Leo gets a (fast forward) Lion Clip
• Tips for Safer Cat Clipping: Tummy & Legs
• Cat Skin – Wrinkles and Folds