How to shave a Cat:)?

Question

My cat has matted hair (Totally not my fault, I was on Vacation and my mom forgot to groom her) and I know it bothers the hell out of them... I have clippers (Electric) and I'd really like to get rid of the mats. My mom wont take her to a Vet OR a Groomer because if cost and the fact that she doesnt want to explain that she didnt take care of her. Since there is no convincing her, can I please have some tips? I want to give her the helmet and boots, hahaha. Please, I need serious answers. Not, "Dont shave your cat..." Or anything like that...

That mats are actually really bad. I dont want to get the scissors near her for fear that I will cut her skin. The clumps are really thick, and I've determined that the clippers (Atleast with the three combs I've tried) dont do an amazing Job. She doesnt seem to mind the sound, so long as she doesnt see the clippers:P

Answer 1

First, cut the matted knots off with regular scissors. If you want to achieve the allover bald look, give her a good trim with the scissors and then with an electric razor. If you just want to get the matted knots out, use the scissors. But whatever you do don't start with the electric razor because since her hair is so completely tangled the razor will hurt and pull too hard. Also, be sure you have help, to hold her still if nothing else because this will not be her cup of tea.

Answer 2

We actually had this problem with our Persians once and this is what we did. First you carefully cut out the matted areas with a really good and sharp pair of scissors having someone else hold the cat down. Once the big clumps are gone, use an electric hair clipper, like Wahl or similar, and shave the cat leaving a light fuzz on the animal, but don't shave the head. Hope this helps.

Answer 3

If it one of those clippers that you get with the blade attached and you can put the comb things on it....do not waste your time. They will not get through the matting. You need a professional set of clippers or take the cat to a groomer.
You can try cutting them out, but many end up at the vet needing stitches!!!!!!!!!!!
I have 2 cats that get shaved every three months and they seem to like it...not the shaving part, but the naked feeling part.
Good luck!!

Answer 4

I have never shaved a cat, but my mother-in-law has to have hers shaved. She was told to take it to the vet or a groomers. They have to sedate the cat, because the skin is sensitive and the clippers would pull the hair and rip the skin. Her cat was really old so I don't know if that applies to all cats. You might call the vet or the groomers and see what they say. And I think she only paid $30 to have it done.

Answer 5

I really suggest going to a pet store that offers grooming - they will shave cats/dogs and it usually doesn't cost too much (usually less than a groomer). You don't have to tell them why if you don't want to, but I'd just point out the matted fur and they will understand. They don't think poorly of you due to that. Plus you get to avoid possibly being scratched or bitten. Good luck!

Answer 6

i've never heard of such a thing. i know there are cats that don't have but a bit of fuzz of hair and look hairless. never seen the cat poodle-do. it quite honestly sounds horrible. and to the cowboys out there, you missed the "shaved like poodles" part, not just shaved cat. Stoopids. Can't pass it up can ya. Rhetorical question. Nevermind.

Answer 7

I was recently in the hospital and has the same problem with the matting of the hair. My cat's hair is longggggggggg. I took him to a per groomer and they took shears to him all over. He know feels so soft (like a lamb) and best of all I can pet him without tumbleweeds of hair blowing across my house. My groomer was nice enough to also bathe him since she cut so much hair off. His hair is about 1/4" long and I think is so cute. I think I'll keep him this way now.

Answer 8

be very careful, how bad are mats? are you able to just cut the mats out so you don't have to shave the whole cat.

I guess next time you go away you need to find someone else to take care of your cat.

Answer 9

Try a dematting rake or comb before you shave the cat -- it will be easier for you both. I hear they work wonders.

You should be able to buy one at a local pet store, or you can order one from http://www.jefferspet.com

Good Luck!

Answer 10

you'll seriously have a hard time taking the electric clippers to your cat. the best thing to do is take a pair of scissors and try your best to cut off each matt individually. it may take a while and you may need some help i dont know how many times ive had to do it to my long haired cat.