If you’ve ever wondered how often you should be brushing your cat, you’re not alone. Some cats look effortlessly flawless, while others seem to collect tangles like it’s their full-time job. The truth is, how often your cat needs a good brushing depends largely on their breedâand their attitude about grooming.
Whether your cat is a sleek short-haired beauty or a fluffy showstopper, this guide will help you figure out the right grooming schedule for their coat type and breed.
Why Brushing Matters (Even for âLow-Maintenanceâ Cats)
Brushing isnât just about making your cat look good (although thatâs a nice bonus). Regular grooming helps:
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Reduce hairballs
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Prevent painful mats and tangles
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Distribute natural oils for a shiny coat
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Keep shedding under control
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Strengthen the bond between you and your feline friend
Even short-haired cats benefit from regular brushingâand the earlier you get your cat used to it, the easier itâll be.
Breed-by-Breed Brushing Guide
Short-Haired Breeds
These cats have sleek coats that rarely tangle, but they still shed and appreciate a little help keeping things neat.
Examples: American Shorthair, British Shorthair, Russian Blue, Bengal
How Often: Once a week is usually enough. Use a rubber grooming mitt or a soft bristle brush to remove loose hair and dirt.
Medium-Haired Breeds
A bit more fluff means a bit more maintenance. These cats are prone to the occasional tangle, especially around the legs and belly.
Examples: Turkish Angora, Somali, Japanese Bobtail
How Often: Brush 2â3 times per week. A slicker brush or a metal comb works well for preventing mats before they start.
Long-Haired Breeds
These are the glamour catsâthe ones that turn heads and require some serious grooming dedication. Without regular brushing, their fur can mat quickly and even lead to skin problems.
Examples: Persian, Maine Coon, Ragdoll, Himalayan
How Often: Daily brushing is ideal. It keeps the coat smooth, reduces shedding, and prevents mats. Use a wide-toothed comb followed by a slicker brush for best results.
Hairless Breeds (Yes, They Still Need Grooming!)
No fur doesnât mean no maintenance. Hairless breeds produce natural oils that would normally be absorbed by fur, so their skin can get greasy or dirty more easily.
Examples: Sphynx, Peterbald
How Often: While brushing isnât needed, a gentle wipe-down with a damp cloth several times a week (and occasional baths) keeps their skin clean and healthy.
Special Cases: Kittens, Seniors, and Rescue Cats
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Kittens: Start brushing early to get them used to the process. Keep sessions short and positive.
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Senior Cats: Older cats might struggle to groom themselves. More frequent brushing helps keep them comfortable.
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Rescue or Long-Neglected Cats: If your cat has mats or is fearful of grooming, go slowly and consider working with a professional groomer at first.
How to Tell If Youâre Brushing Enough
If your catâs coat feels greasy, looks clumpy, or youâre finding more hair than usual on your furniture, itâs probably time to brush more often. On the flip side, if your cat is shedding less, has a shiny coat, and doesn’t fuss during grooming sessions, youâre on the right track.
Final Thoughts
Brushing your cat doesnât have to be a choreâit can be a relaxing routine you both enjoy. Each cat is different, but once you figure out the right schedule and tools for your furry friend, it becomes second nature.