Top 5 Pet Grooming Frequently Asked Questions

Is your dog or cat new to professional pet grooming? Even if your pet has been professionally groomed in the past, you may still have questions about what to expect during your pet’s first appointment Oakland Park Animal Hospital. Below, our veterinarian and groomer answer five of your most frequently asked questions about pet grooming:

#1: Why should my pet receive professional grooming care?

Even if you enjoy bathing your pet at home, professional pet grooming is still important for your pet’s health. For example, some types of professional care, such as nail trimming or anal gland expressing, can be difficult to perform and are best left up to the experts. Many pets also become anxious or nervous during grooming, even for routine care such as baths. Our professional groomer understands the best ways to help pets relax and enjoy their experience.

#2: What if my pet has a skin condition – how does this affect grooming?

If your pet frequently scratches or itches his skin, your pet may be experiencing a skin problem. While some itching is normal, excessive scratching, along with biting or chewing at the skin, may indicate a problem. If you are not sure about your pet’s skin condition, our grooming team can help. Our professional groomer is trained to identify potential skin problems. Should a possible issue be identified, our Oakland Park veterinarian is just steps away to make a full diagnosis and recommend care. This is part of our animal hospital’s commitment to going above and beyond in everything we do!

#3: How frequently should my pet be groomed?

Pet grooming frequency depends on your pet’s lifestyle and wellness needs. For example, long-haired dogs that frequently play outside may need more grooming than shorter haired breeds that spend most of their time inside. This is due to that fact that longer-haired breeds are more susceptible to matted fur. Additionally, more time spent running, swimming or playing at a dog park increases the risk for contracting fleas and ticks. Regular bathing and coat trimming will prevent matted fur, which can quickly become a breeding ground for these parasites.

#4: Does my cat need professional grooming?

Yes, even though your cat may appear to fastidiously clean him or herself, cats will still benefit from professional grooming. Cats that frequently lick themselves are only redistributing dirt and dander throughout their fur. Additionally, for long-haired breeds, frequent personal grooming can actually increase the risk for hair balls. Our vet recommends scheduling grooming appointments throughout the year to keep your cat’s coat healthy.

#5: What grooming services will my pet need?

All pets will benefit from regular baths. Longer-haired breeds may also benefit from a “haircut” that removes excess fur but does not leave pets vulnerable to sunburn. Depending on your pet’s lifestyle and wellness needs, we may recommend additional services such as nail trimming, ear cleaning and anal gland expressing. Talk to our veterinarian about how professional grooming can benefit your pet.