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Why to give kitty a lion cut this summer
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The tail end of a lion cut
We've established that Houston is hot. And one option to help keep your cat cooler during these months is to shave his fur. The "lion cut" is where every part of the cat is shaved down except for the head and mane, the front legs, back feet and tip of the tail. It is the most popular hair-do for cats, and is a plus not only to keep Houstonian felines cooler in 95 degree heat, but for many other reasons.
A shave will greatly reduce shedding. This is not only true when the cat has just been shaved, but will continue to be true while the fur grows back. Shedding typically occurs when there is too much fur for the cat to be comfortable. This is why summer is when the most fur is found on your carpets, couches and clothes. Once your cat is shaved, the body is no longer trying to push hair out to keep cool and until their is once again too much hair, shedding will continue to be at a minimum.
Anyone have older cats? You've probably noticed more matted hair than usual. This is just something that comes with old age. Maybe the joints are a bit rusty, or simply more time is spent sleeping in the same position for longer periods of time, causing the hair underneath to get a bit matted. Brushing daily is always recommended, but shaving will allow the hair to start over and will eliminate matted fur. It also makes it easier for your elderly furball to clean himself.
Hairballs are a thing of the past with the lion cut. With less fur to lick clean, less fur will get caught in the throat, and less hairballs will end up on the carpet.
With all of the pros of shaving, there are definitely a few cons to go along with it. One being that going to the groomer to get this done can be tramatic, especially if there are dogs at the groomer or the groomer smells like dog overwhelmingly. I'd recommend finding a vet to do this for a cat. They are more likely to have a private room available, and are more likely to be gentle.
A senior cat may benefit from the pros of shaving, but the experience of going to a groomer/vet and having a loud shaver on may be too much. Use your own good judgement or ask your vet if getting kitty shaved is a good idea.
Can I shave my cat myself? I don't know, can you? If you have experience and know how to work pet sheers, you shouldn't have a problem. Remember, it's not easy and it takes time. Only experienced groomers should take this upon themselves, as one nick on a cat's fragile skin can cause bleeding and a lot of fright. It is safe and easy to take your cat to a professional.
Don't let hairballs, matted hair and shedding take over your summer or your cat. Keep him cool and comfortable, and let's face it — adorable!
**Always ask your vet before taking your cat to a groomer or picking up sheers yourself. Remember, shaving your cat is something for summer, especially in Houston. However, a bald kitty come January can make your cat cold and uncomfortable. It will also mess with your cat's biological ability to adjust to weather with the use of a natural fur coat.
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