When to Shave Cats: A Quick Guide

1. Treating Cuts and Minor Wounds: It's common practice for veterinarians to trim or shave the fur around the surgical area in cats before surgery to prevent hair from getting caught during stitching. This same logic applies to any cuts your cat may have. Promptly removing the fur around the wound not only keeps it clean but also aids in the faster healing process.

2. Dealing with Discharge Around Eyes and Noses: If your cat has excessive discharge around its eyes or nose, consider the potential impact on the surrounding fur. Cats like Persians can have a lot of nasal hair, which can lead to increased mucus production. Gently trim the fur around the nose and inside the nostrils using bluntnose scissors to avoid cutting the skin. Additionally, if moisture or tears accumulate in the tear tracks of a Persian, the skin can become sore and rough due to constant dampness. Trim the fur in these areas to maintain dryness and comfort.

3. Managing Abscesses and Ear Infections: Abscesses can discharge a significant amount of pus, which can easily soil the fur around them. It's advisable to trim the fur three to five centimeters beyond the abscess to keep the area clean and facilitate pus drainage. While cats' ear canals are typically hairless, the fur around the base of the ears can collect fluids from the ear discharge. To maintain ear hygiene, trim this fur short as well.

4. Tackling马尾病 (Mastitis): Also known as the "greasy tail,"马尾病 is a condition that can infect a cat's entire tail if left untreated. During treatment, trim the fur along the tail's length in the direction of hair growth, removing at least two to three centimeters to ensure proper healing.

In the case of ringworm, it's essential to shave the affected areas to facilitate treatment and monitor the healing process. Should you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to consult with an online veterinary professional.