It’s getting hot, you may want to clip your cat. Should I clip?

We need to consider a few things first.

The cat’s coat is its protection from the elements. Cats’ hair goes through a life cycle in the hair follicle.   At the part of the cycle where the hair is released from the follicle, and if the hair is not removed by tongue or comb, it will get stuck in the coat and shed when it touches items of furniture or the cat shakes. The cycle of the hair and the amount that is shed is dependent on the cat’s lifestyle, the environment (temperature) and the cat’s genetics.  Cats shed more seasonally to help regulate temperature and protect the skin. Clipping the coat exposes the skin to the elements and can reduce the cat’s ability to regulate temperature and protect from sun, wind and rain.  Elderly cats have thinner skin and a more transparent and sometimes sparse coat, and therefore should not be clipped short, if possible, to protect from the sun and help with body temperature regulation.  (Cats still sit in the window, in the sun, even when inside).

I usually recommend clients continue to bathe and brush their cat to remove the excess undercoat (released hairs) to cool the cat, and if preferred, clip the belly, underarms and sanitary area.  In my experience, I have found that many cats that are clipped only for the hot months can fear grooming due to it being such an irregular activity that requires a higher amount of handling, joint manipulation and touch compared to bathing and blow-drying. A regular bath and blow-dry during the cooler times of the year can be a more positive experience.  Also, cats may change colour and texture, as some cats’ coat colours are temperature-dependent, so there can be a risk of coat change in some pointed breeds, curly and other coats.

If your cat is not exclusively outdoors, then you may choose to clip your cat for summer.   Your cat may be more comfortable or may not mind either way. Cats sweat through their paws, and in fact, have sweat glands in their hair follicles so rarely pant due to heat. Try to remember your pet will feel the heat differently from you, they find ways to keep cool such as lying on tiles or finding a cool spot in the dark.  A cat looking for a cool place is normal behaviour. 

Other factors such as hairballs, grass seeds, matting, bad skin and lifestyle, may mean you need to clip your cat. It’s a personal choice and I do not tell my clients they are incorrect either way. I prefer to educate my clients in the alternatives and the risks can come with clipping. Knowing you care about your cat’s comfort means you are a great owner.

An educated choice is a good choice.

Happy Grooming and keep cool!

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