Keep Your Pet Clean, Healthy, and Looking Great Without Leaving the House
Caring for your pet’s grooming at home is one great way to save money here and there, keep your furry companion cozy, and essentially get closer to the bond you share. You can have a fluffy dog, a silky-haired cat, or even a smaller pet, but maintaining regular grooming is the best way to prevent them from developing skin issues, tangles in their coats, and infection. These easy grooming tips, sanctioned by your veterinarian, will have your pet smelling and looking their very best, all in the comfort of your own home.
✂️ 1. Brush, Brush, Brush!
Brushing removes dirt, loose hair, and keeps tangles or mats from forming. And it feels wonderful for most pets!
🐶 Dogs:
- Short-haired: Once a week
- Long-haired: Daily brushing
🐱 Cats:
- Short-haired: 2–3 times/week
- Long-haired: Daily
🧼 2. Bath Time Basics
Most pets do not require regular baths—but when they do, do it properly.
Bathing Tips:
- Use pet-specific shampoo (never human products)
- Use lukewarm water
- Gently massage shampoo, avoiding eyes and ears
- Dry thoroughly (towel or blow dryer on low)
How often?
- Dogs: Every 4–6 weeks (more if dirty/allergic)
- Cats: Rarely, unless very dirty or greasy
✂️ 3. Nail Trimming Without the Stress
Nail overgrowth injures or produces posture issues. Trim them and maintain them that way.
Tips:
- Use pet nail clippers or a grinder
- Avoid cutting the quick (pink part inside nail)
- Trim a little at a time, especially on black nails
- Give treats after every paw
👂 4. Cleaning Ears the Right Way
Unwashed ears can lead to infection—and particularly in floppy eared breeds of dogs.
How:
- Use a vet-approved ear cleaner
- Apply to a cotton pad (never insert swabs!)
- Gently wipe inside of ear flap
Signs of ear issues:
- Bad odor
- Excessive scratching
- Redness or discharge
👁️ 5. Eyes and Face Care
Clean your pet’s face, particularly breeds that get tear stains (such as pugs, shih tzus, or Persians).
- Use damp cloth to clean around eyes
- Gently remove gunk or dried discharge
- Use pet-safe tear stain remover if needed
🐩 6. Haircuts: When and How?
Few pets require trimming, but should your pet require it, cut slowly and methodically.
For at-home haircuts:
- Use pet grooming clippers, not scissors
- Bathe and brush before trimming
- Trim in sections, avoiding skin folds and ears
Best for:
- Poodles, doodles, shih tzus, schnauzers, etc.
💡 7. Create a Calm Grooming Space
Reduce anxiety by:
- Grooming after exercise or play
- Using a non-slip mat or towel
- Giving frequent treats and breaks
- Speaking calmly throughout
