Cats are pretty animals. Grooming is a very essential thing in cats especially in long-haired breeds. Additionally, grooming prevents cats from a number of health-related conditions such as hairball formation and a variety of parasitic infestations. Some cats have polite nature and easily let the groomer approach them. On the other hand, some cats don’t like getting shaved at all. This thing creates trouble for the groomer and owner. Here we will discuss some important tricks to deal with an aggressive or unwilling cat while doing her shave.

How to shave an unwilling cat

Placing muzzle:

Using a muzzle is a good idea to restrain a cat which is unwilling to be shaven. Placing a muzzle will prevent you from getting bitten. Remember, aggressive behavior in cats occur due to any past bad experience, stress or fear. Try to create a stress free positive experience for the cat undergoing grooming so that she will accept this afterwards.

Elizabeth collar:

This is another good option to restrain a cat for the shaving process. You can simply place a towel around your cat’s neck or Elizabeth collar. In this way, the cat will become calm and you can monitor her breathing as well (which is not at least possible through a muzzle). For further safety, you can wear protective gloves too. These gloves will save you from getting bitten through any side.

Use of sedative agents:

Sedatives are also used to calm down an uncooperative cat who shows reluctance to get shaving sessions. Sedatives are only used by the professional groomers/expert pet practitioner in an appropriate dose required by the cat according to her body weight and all health parameters. This method is not considered quite possible.

Make her sit in lap:

Some cats don’t like grooming tables and show resistance to the grooming process. Remember, being a responsible owner/groomer, this is your utmost duty to provide an relaxed and stress free grooming environment to an uncooperative cat. If she doesn’t like grooming tables, make her sit in your lap or the lap of the owner. She will feel secure and let you shave herself.

Offer treats:

This is another best thing which you can do to shave an uncooperative cat. Generally, treat giving is considered a generous thing. As already mentioned, make the shaving process memorable and positive for the cats. If you offer the cat with yummy treats after every shaving session, then this is going to be the memorable thing for your cat. She will definitely like this afterwards.

Use of professional clippers:

If you are grooming your cat at home (if she is uncooperative and doesn’t let anyone come close), then it is recommended to use professional/veterinary recommended clippers. Adopt all safety measures before shaving your cat.

Note: Never punish; it will not help, and it will only make your cats more aggressive and fearful.

All of these methods will help prevent your cat from developing hairballs. If you notice your cat already has hairballs and is vomiting, you should check out the best cat food for hairballs and vomiting.

CONCLUSION:

This is important to know the temperament of a cat before shaving her. Make the shaving experience wonderful for your cat and always go for a gentle and friendly approach. Offer a treat after each shaving session. This is also recommended by the professionals to use cat-friendly grooming equipment and give a lot of attention to the comfort level of the cat. Remember, a stress-free and friendly environment will help an aggressive cat to stay calm and feel secure. Last but not least, there are high chances of getting bitten/scratched while dealing with an aggressive/vicious cat, this must be your top most priority to take care of yourself and adopt all safety measures to protect yourself.