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The
best sign of a healthy cat is easy to spot. Does kitty groom often? It appears
as if some cats spend the majority of the day licking all over themselves and
its absolutely puzzling to most people.
Why
Do Cats Groom So Often?
Many people think that cats groom just for
appearance sake but actually it has many advantages and benefits. The first is
for weatherproofing purposes. When cats separate and smooth each hair it helps
to keep the heat in and the cold out. Cats produce a natural oil which is
evenly distributed throughout their coat of fur as they groom.
The next purpose of grooming is for
scent marking. After being petted, cats will groom themselves to keep their
scent active and to take in yours. In addition, when they pub up a against the
scratching tree or their favorite sofa they are leaving their mark.
A third benefit for grooming is
parasite control. While flea collars may still be necessary for major
infestations, cats will try to keep them away by nibbling them away. A fourth
reason for grooming is or sociability. In a home where multiple cats live, cats
often groom each other. This is away that they connect with each other and many
times how they connect with their beloved owners.
Grooming not only benefits the cats
but also the owners. Numerous cats live their entire lives without the need of
having to be brushed. But in the instances that your cat isn’t high
maintenance, you will need to assist them in their grooming. This will reduce
shedding, offensive odors, and hairballs that may end up on your couch and
carpet.
Keeping your cats nails trimmed will reduce the
amount of damage they do to furniture, shoes, etc. I remember visiting a friend
house overnight. In the morning I was very angry to find my brand new pair of
boots ruined because their kitten had scratched them all up. This could have
been avoiding with good grooming practices.
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@ 2008. CAT HEALTH SITE
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