Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Shaving the Cat

One word - Don't.

I should probably add some detail here, huh?  Grace, my cat, is a 14 yr old DLH (Domestic Long Hair).  I've always been lucky that she hasn't had issues with matting but lately, my luck has run out.  I know it's getting harder for her to keep herself clean and the upshot is she is getting a lot of mats.  She doesn't like to be combed or brushed out so the only option is to cut the mats out.  That's not a big deal if it's a mat here or there but in the last couple weeks it's become more of an issue than that.

I already spoke w/Dr. Hillary about sedating Grace and shaving her but, hey, it was a long holiday weekend and I am a DIY kinda gal.  I have an electric clipper so why shouldn't I attempt this on my own?  Number one reason?  The electric clipper I have is designed to shave out paw pads on dogs, not shave down an entire cat.

Grace now has a big bald spot on one side.  This morning I went after some more mats with my thinning shears.  So, basically, Grace looks like a drunken groomer got a hold of only one side of  her.  Thank goodness it's the side she usually sleeps on!

When Dr. Hillary gets the clinic open, I'll stuff Grace into a carrier and run her down there to have everything evened up.  In the meantime, someone should probably take my scissors away.

3 comments:

  1. Well, on the one hand I'm relieved that you didn't get mauled and need stitches and/or a tetanus shot. On the other hand, I feel bad for your kitty. :( I've never had anything but DSHs, so I can't really relate, but I can imagine the mats are uncomfortable and frustrating. I hope she likes her "lion" cut that's coming.

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  2. Poor Kitty! She must have been mighty embarrassed, and annoyed with you! On the other hand, it makes for a funny post! Hope to see a photo of the final hairdo.

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  3. It's not that bad! We can't take away your scissors or Bogey can't get his regular "ear lift!"

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