As a pet parent, you know pet grooming is important to its health and well-being. Not only does grooming keep your pet’s hair shiny and clean, but it also promotes its general health.
Although grooming a pet isn’t as easy as it seems, pet owners often make mistakes that complicate the grooming process and that is why groomers rely on proper pet grooming supplies from https://www.naturesspecialties.com/ to aid the grooming process.
In this blog, I shall point out the top 10 grooming mistakes you should avoid to ensure that your pets always look and feel their best. I also shall point out why you should let a professional groomer handle your “grooming commitment.”
Skipping Regular Grooming Sessions
Skipping regular grooming sessions is one of the fundamental mistakes pet owners make. Yes, you may be busy, but whether your pet has short or long hair, you need to groom it regularly to keep it from getting matted and prevent excessive shedding.
In addition, when you groom you pet, you may find skin problems or bugs that you might not have noticed otherwise.
Using the Wrong Grooming Tools
Using the wrong grooming tools can mess up with your pet’s hair or even harm the pet.. Always buy grooming tools that are right for your pet’s breed and hair type. For example, a slicker brush is great for pets with long hair, while a rubber curry brush is great for pets with short hair.
If you aren’t sure what tools are best for your pet, talk to a professional groomer or a veterinarian. Better still, book a professional groomer on Groomit to handle your “grooming commitment.”
Dental Hygiene Overlooked
Dental hygiene is often ignored, even though it is an essential part of pet grooming. If you don’t take care of your pet’s teeth, it could contribute to bad smell and plaque, which may lead to tartar formation and eventually dental diseases.
Therefore, make it a habit to brush your pet’s teeth every day with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste that is safe for animals. Tooth-friendly treats and toys also can help keep their teeth in good shape.
Too Much or Too Little Bathing
It is important to find the right mix when it comes to bathing your pet. If they get too much baths, their natural oils can be stripped from their fur, which can make their skin dry and itchy. On the other hand,
not bathing your pet enough can cause dirt and oils to build up, which can equally irritate their skin and possibly get fleas.
Depending on the type of your pet’s coat, you should bathe your dog every 4 to 6 weeks if they have medium to long coat or every other month if they have short coat or as suggested by your vet.
Conversely, you may bathe long-haired cats like the American bobtail every couple of months but hairless cats like the Canadian Sphynx every couple of weeks.
Cleaning the Ears Wrongly
It is important to clean your pet’s ears to avoid infections and wax buildup. But putting cotton swabs into their ears beyond the exterior folds could be harmful. Instead, use ear cleaners that your vet recommends and gently wipe the visible part of the ear canal and outside of the ear.
Pets Nails Ignored
Ignoring your pet’s nails may contribute to health issues, including pain and joint problems. Trim your dog’s nails approximately once a month and your cat approximately every three weeks.
Be careful not to cut too close to the quick (the part of the nail curve that contains blood vessels and nerves) as this can cause bleeding and pain. (If this accidentally happens, you may stop the bleeding by
applying pressure on the fresh cut and putting some baking soda, flour or cornstarch on it. If the bleeding persists, consult your vet immediately.)
For your peace of mind and your furry friend’s comfort, you may book a professional groomer on Groomit to handle the “trimming business” for you.
Rushing the Grooming Process
Grooming a pet takes time, care, and patience. If you rush, your pet may feel nervous or scared, which can make grooming sessions very stressful.
Take your time, give it treats and praises, and make grooming relaxing and fun for both of you.
Skin and coat problems overlooked
When grooming your pet, pay attention to its skin and coat. Look for redness, itching, or lumps, and if you see anything out of the ordinary, talk to your vet. Obviously, if your vet finds health problems earlier, he can stop them from getting worse and save your pet from unnecessary suffering.
Using Products Meant for People
If you decide to groom your dog instead of a professional groomer, then it is important to remember this rule: Never use products meant for people on your pets because they may contain ingredients that are harmful to animals.
Always choose shampoos, conditioners, and grooming items made just for pets to keep them safe and healthy.
Skipping Professional Grooming
It is okay to groom your pet at home, but it may be a mistake to skip professional grooming all together. Professional groomers have the skills and knowledge to do different kinds of grooming.
Moreover, they can groom your pet and remove ticks and fleas in a way that you might not be able to do at home or may not have time to.
Conclusion
Pet parents often make mistakes that complicate the grooming process and unintentionally reduce their pets quality of life or even harm them. If you can avoid the abovementioned top 10 pet grooming mistakes, your furry friends will not only look cute, but they also will be healthier and happier.