How to train a long-haired cat to tolerate brushing and prevent mats?

Question

How can I get Julie to tolerate being brushed? She has long hair, and I try to prevent matting. Sometimes she will tolerate a Zoom Groom for a minute or so, but if I try a bristle brush or pin brush, she gets really agitated. The Zoom Groom isn't as good for clumping hair, so are there any ways to train her for brushing? I'm also trying to keep her weight down, so "tons of treats" isn't a good idea. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 8 years and 1 month old

Jessica Desrosiers · Accepted Answer

"Tons of treats" may be needed in the short term, but can usually be phased out once Julie is used to being groomed if you're worried about her weight. Using items such as lean boiled chicken breast that are still high value while providing some nutrition can be used as a treat that is still on the healthy side. You can also adjust her diet as needed on the days you train together by giving her slightly less dinner if she's had a lot of treats that day. Getting used to grooming takes patience and practice. Start slow and gradually build up- which means you may only get her tail brushed the first day, etc. If she likes the zoom groom OK, starting with that first and then working up to other brushes may help. If she accepts petting or brushing with it, you can brush with it for a bit, offer a treat (or if you're adamantly opposed to treats, a favorite toy or bit of catnip instead), and then switch to a different brush and repeat. You may only be able to get a few brushes in at first, and if she becomes too stressed, take a break and try again once she's calmed down. Some cats also get very agitated/playful from being brushed even if they do enjoy it. Having a "decoy" brush that she can chew on or play with while you use another, or switching between two brushes can help distract her some while you get grooming done. (My cat personally likes to have a toy in her mouth when she gets brushed). There are also some scratching-post like items that have brushes built into them to encourage the cat to rub against it and brush themselves. While those may not get out mats, they may help make grooming more "fun" for Julie. If she is getting stressed to the point where she is becoming aggressive, hiding, lashing out, etc and won't let you handle her at all for grooming, then speaking with your vet is always best. They may recommend a medication to help relax her during grooming periods, recommend sedated grooming sessions, or may be able to point you to other ways to help her remain calm while being brushed.

How to train a long-haired cat to tolerate brushing and prevent mats?

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