pet care & health
Different species, different needs
The specifics of grooming really do differ between species. For instance, dogs typically need more hands-on grooming than cats, especially if they have long or double coats that mat easily. I’ ve seen breeds like Golden Retrievers or Poodles require daily brushing to avoid tangles, and regular bathing to keep their coats and skin healthy.
Cats, on the other hand, do a remarkable job grooming themselves, but many longhaired breeds can benefit from our help to prevent matting. Even with short-haired cats, I advise weekly brushing, not only to remove loose hair but also to check for any lumps, ticks or skin lesions that could otherwise go unnoticed.
For other pets like rabbits, guinea pigs or birds, the grooming routine is different again. Rabbits, for example, need regular checks for matting, especially around their hindquarters, and their nails must be kept trimmed. Birds may need their beaks and nails checked along with occasional misting or baths to keep their feathers in top condition.
How grooming supports health
One common question I get is whether grooming helps prevent medical problems, and the answer is a clear yes. Regular grooming can help prevent skin conditions such as hotspots and other forms of dermatitis. Brushing not only keeps coats healthy but also allows for early detection of parasites like fleas or ticks. Clean ears are less likely to develop infections, especially in dogs with floppy ears. Keeping nails at the right length can prevent painful splitting and lower the risk of lameness. In many ways, grooming sessions double up as informal health checks.
Caring for senior pets
As pets age, their grooming needs definitely evolve. Older animals often become less efficient at self-grooming, especially if they have arthritis or limited mobility. I encourage owners to be especially gentle with senior pets, using soft brushes and taking care around joints. You may need to brush and check your pets more frequently, especially around areas the animal can’ t reach easily. It’ s also important to check seniors for pressure sores, matting or signs of incontinence, and to adapt the bathing routine to their changing needs.
How often is enough?
People often ask how often they should bathe, brush or trim their pets’ nails. My advice is tailored
Grooming basics every owner should know
If you’ re new to pet parenthood, a few simple grooming habits can go a long way in keeping your pet healthy, comfortable and happy. Here are the essentials to start with:
• Use the correct brush or comb for your pet’ s coat type, and brush all the way to the skin without scraping or scratching.
• Check and clean your pet’ s ears and eyes regularly, especially if they are prone to issues.
• Learn how to trim your pet’ s nails safely, or ask your veterinary team to show you how.
• When bathing, always choose pet-safe products – never use human shampoos or soaps.
• Prioritise dental hygiene by introducing tooth brushing or offering dental treats as part of their routine.
Ultimately, grooming is about more than just appearance. It’ s a proactive way to support your pet’ s physical health and deepen the relationship you have with them. Every grooming session is a chance to look after their wellbeing, spot subtle changes and simply enjoy some quality time together.
to each animal, but as a broad rule, most dogs benefit from baths every four to 12 weeks and require brushing anywhere from daily for long-haired breeds to weekly for short coats. Cats with long hair often need daily brushing, while short-haired cats usually do fine with a session once per week. Nail trimming tends to be necessary every two to six weeks for most pets, depending on lifestyle and breed. I remind owners to adjust grooming routines based on the pet’ s activity level, health and the environment they live in.
Grooming as bonding
Beyond the physical benefits, grooming is a wonderful opportunity to build trust. Gentle, positive grooming sessions teach pets to be comfortable with handling, which makes vet visits less stressful and helps us spot problems early. It’ s also a quiet time for owners and pets to connect. www. petpals. co. za 27