Puja Sarkar
ANN/ THE DAILY STAR – The grooming pets need and how often they need it varies from breed to breed.
Having a grooming kit at home can be efficient for both dog and cat owners. Grooming helps maintain the pet’s health and to keep their living environment clean.
Here are some necessities for grooming cats and dogs at home:
A bag
A bag for grooming accessories helps keep organised. Using a makeup bag with multiple compartments would make finding these things in times of emergencies convenient. Additionally, while travelling, a grooming kit ensures that your pet travels safely and comfortably.
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Having a toothbrush and toothpaste for your pet is necessary for their long-term oral health. For cats, brushing their teeth is more effective in reducing dental plaque. For dogs, it is ideal to brush their teeth twice daily. It helps remove leftover food particles from between their teeth and gums, and remove tartar and plaque.
Brush
Brushing your pet’s coat and their grooming requirements depend on their coat type. For long-haired and medium-haired cats, grooming requirements are more and increase during shedding seasons. It is recommended to groom them daily and to groom short-haired cats once weekly.For dogs, brushing eliminates dead hair and dry skin and distributes natural oils for a healthy coat. Their coats should be brushed every couple of days despite the length.
Shampoo
Bath times are crucial to keep pets fresh. Unless your pet has specific requirements, a pet shampoo is a must-have. Additionally, having separate hand towels for them is useful for drying them off.
Ear cleaning solution
Cats and dogs are prone to ear infections. It never hurts to be prepared and have an ear cleaning solution, preferably recommended by a vet, to clean your pet’s ears, preventing infections.
Clipper
Clipping is an important part of the grooming process. It is important to remember that nail clipping is a better alternative to declawing which involves surgically amputating their claws.
Medication
Keeping your pets’ medication and vitamins on hand is important to keep their health secured. Instead of waiting for them to show symptoms of ailments, it never hurts to be prepared!
It is on us to give our furry friends a healthy and happy life. Grooming them not only keeps them happy and healthy but also is a bonding opportunity.
