What are some tips for grooming your dog at home? Cat or dog grooming is a big task, especially if your cat doesn’t like being brushed or your dog doesn’t like baths. Here are some helpful cat and dog grooming basics to make grooming your pet more enjoyable.

Pet Grooming Tips

• Always brush and comb your pet before bathing. This helps prevent tangles and allows the shampoo to get deep into the coat.
• Clip nails and groom before bathing. Clean ears after bathing by putting a small amount of ear cleanser such as Vet Basics General Ear Cleanser in the ears. Doing this after bathing helps avoid swimmers ear!
• Use lukewarm water. Dogs and cats are more sensitive to temperatures that are too hot or too cold.
• Clip nails so they just touch the ground when the foot is placed flat. Take the time to know where the quick is. If the nail feels spongy when you start to clip, stop immediately. It’s always a good idea to have a styptic powder on hand to help stop any bleeding.
• On pet clipper blades: the higher the number of the blade, the shorter and finer the cut.
• If clipping multiple animals one after another, use ceramic blades. They stay cool and sharp with extended use. A good habit is to touch the clipper blade to the back of your wrist as you clip. If it is cool enough to touch your wrist, it is okay to keep using it. If it’s too hot, spray with Kool-Lube and recheck on your wrist.
• A grooming table is a great way to keep your dog or cat in place, plus it helps you avoid straining your back. They come with a rubber mat surface for footing.
• If you’re not using a grooming table, add a rubber mat to the surface to help with footing. This will encourage standing rather than lying down.

If you have more questions on how to clean dog clippers or need some cat grooming tips, call us at 800.786.4751.