Expert: Tomay - 2/18/2005

Question
Hi Tomay -

I have an 11 month old Himalayan, and he won't let me brush him without biting and scratching me. He used to let me, but as he gets older and furrier, he gets more matted and won't let me near him with a brush or scissors!! And i am afraid to take  him to the groomer for fear of what he might do to them. Any advice on how to get him to let me brush him?

Answer
Hello,
Brushing a matted cat can be very uncomfortable for the cat, which may be the reason he is biting and scratching.  Unfortunately, there is no choice but to enlist the help of a groomer.  Just call around and check to see which ones will groom cats.  Most groomers will not go any further than what they can safely do with a cat, so will usually call you if there is a problem.  If that doesn't work out, next is the vet with a groomer on staff.  Sedation can sometimes be the only way to groom a kitty with an attitude!  Check with your vet first, and then see if they can recommend someone.  After grooming is done, then you can keep up with it with a comb.  If you scruff him  up by the neck (like his mama carried him in her mouth) and keep him close to your body, then you can usually get some combing done.  Stop when he gets fidgety, and try to keep the experience a positive one.  Give him a treat and lots of petting after a successful grooming session.
Hope this is helpful.
Thank you for your inquiry,
Tomay