HOW TO CARE FOR A HAIRLESS CAT: 4 THINGS YOU NEED TO NOTE
Hairless cats have been a favorite choice for many years. This is due to their friendly and sociable nature, which can sometimes resemble that of a dog. But no matter which type of hairless cat you prefer, it’s important to understand the care they need before committing to owning one. Taking care of a cat without fur may involve more maintenance than you realize. Find out with Petlandlove in the article below!
Keeping Your Hairless Cat’s Skin Healthy
Similar to humans, cats produce oils on their skin. Hairless cats are unable to naturally remove these oils like furred cats can, leading to oil buildup on their skin. To clean this oil, hairless cats need weekly baths using warm water and a hypoallergenic pet shampoo without dyes or perfumes. It’s important to thoroughly rinse off all the shampoo to prevent skin irritation.
After bathing, make sure to dry your cat properly to prevent them from getting too cold. A gentle pat-down with a towel should be sufficient. Without regular baths, hairless cats can develop acne and blackheads. If this happens, you can clean the affected area with warm water and mild antibacterial soap, or consult a vet for further assistance.
Unlike furred cats whose fur helps wick away oils and debris, hairless cats may accumulate dirt in their ears quickly. Regular ear cleaning, ideally during bath time, can help prevent ear infections. Use over-the-counter pet ear cleaner and cotton balls or rounds to gently clean your cat’s ears. While some tutorials suggest squirting the cleaner directly into the ear, many cats prefer having the cleaner applied to a cotton ball first before wiping away debris.
Keeping Nails Clipped
Just like any cat, regular nail trimming is essential to prevent your hairless cat from getting caught on things like blankets and carpets, as well as avoiding painful ingrown nails. Hairless cats, in particular, need their nails clipped regularly to prevent accidental self-scratching and potential infections due to lack of fur protection.
It is easier to get your cat used to nail clippings when they are young, similar to ear cleaning, but it is possible to train an adult cat as well. If you are struggling, you can always seek help from a vet to trim your cat’s nails safely.
Keeping Your Hairless Cat Warm
During autumn and winter, ensure your cat has access to numerous blankets and comfortable cat beds. There are self-heated cat beds available commercially, which are ideal for older cats with arthritis as they keep them warm without the risk of overheating. You can also consider dressing your hairless cat in clothes, but introduce them gradually to this new attire. Keep in mind that due to their oily skin, the cat’s clothes may need frequent washing. Hairless cats will seek warmth from people, bedding, or sunlight, but be cautious as sun exposure can lead to sunburns due to lack of fur.
Fur not only keeps cats warm in cold weather but also helps regulate their body temperature in warmer seasons. In spring and summer, ensure your hairless cat has cool areas to relax, such as air conditioning, fans, or cooling mats. If your cat can have treats, consider making a popsicle from frozen pureed treats as a refreshing summer snack. Remember that hairless cats are prone to feeling cold, so provide them with a warm spot even during hot summer days.
Hairless Cats Make Great Companions
Hairless cats can be wonderful pets if you invest the time and effort. They are recognized for their friendly and affectionate nature. While they may snuggle up to you for warmth, most cat enthusiasts don’t mind as long as they get to enjoy their cat’s cuddles.
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