Expert: Tomay - 6/6/2004

Question
I recently adopted a cat.  I'm not sure what kind he is, but I'm thinking just a domestic shorthair.  Even though he doesn't have long hair or anything, he sheds a LOT.  I was thinking of having him shaved to help with the problem.  Is it normal to have cats shaved even though they don't have long hair?  

Answer
Dear Jessie,
Yes, it is normal to have cats shaved down, even short haired ones.  As a matter of fact, I have a black and white domestic short hair that I shave down for the very reason you describe.  Shedding! Alot!  You can also use a 'curry brush', which is an oval, rubber brush with a hand strap, to brush over his coat and help remove all that shedding coat.   This works very nicely and is quite successful when done consistantly.  You just have to be careful not to remove too much coat as overbrushing can sometimes produce bald spots.  Otherwise, if you just don't have the time, by all means, call around to find a groomer who works on cats (not all groomers do).  Take a little time to talk with them, and go with your first impressions, as not all groomers are created equal!
Hope this is helpful.  Thank you for your question.
Thanx
Tomay