Grooming and Hygiene Tips from Kittenhood to Adulthood

Grooming and Hygiene tips from Kittenhood to Adulthood

As they transition from playful little kittens into adolescent “teenagers,” their grooming and hygiene needs to evolve, and so does your role as their loving owner.

Whether your cat is just a few weeks old or approaching two years, establishing gentle and consistent grooming routines will keep their coat shining, claws healthy, and teeth clean. Best of all, grooming time is a wonderful way to bond and tune into your cat’s wellbeing.

Here’s everything you need to know to care for your growing cat’s hygiene with confidence and care, with tips inspired by the trusted experts at ROYAL CANIN®️.

Maintaining a healthy coat from kittenhood onwards

Regular brushing of your kitten not only keeps their coat sleek and shiny but also gives you the chance to check for unwanted visitors like fleas and ticks. Plus, it helps prevent hairballs from building up in their stomach, which can be uncomfortable and troublesome.

Claw care: Trimming tips for growing claws

Cats use their claws to mark their territory. To prevent damage from scratching while allowing this natural behaviour, it’s best to regularly trim their claws. Although claw clipping is painless, it can cause some distress, so it’s important to start early to help your cat become accustomed to the process. Here’s how to take care of your cat while maintaining their claws:

Monitor your cat’s claws regularly. If they become unusually hard or soft, this may indicate health issues such as malnutrition or infection. If you notice these signs, consult your vet promptly.

Keeping your cat’s face clean & comfortable

Throughout kittenhood and adolescence, regularly check your cat’s eyes, ears, and nose:

Eyes: Wipe away any tear stains with a damp, clean cloth or special eye compress.
Ears: Examine for dirt or wax, cleaning gently with vet-recommended solutions.
Nose: Keep it moist and clear of any discharge.

Consult your vet if you notice any unusual secretions, smells, or redness in any of these areas.

Oral hygiene: Building healthy habits early

Your kitten’s first teeth appear between 2 and 6 weeks, so it is beneficial to begin gentle tooth brushing early to establish good oral hygiene. Here are some tips on how best to maintain your cat’s oral hygiene:

Use a cat-specific toothbrush and veterinary toothpaste.
Brush regularly to prevent tartar buildup and gum inflammation.
Feed your cat anti-tartar dry food to support dental health.

If you have concerns about your cat’s teeth or breath, your vet can advise on professional cleaning.

Bathing: When & how to help your cat stay clean

Many cats dislike water, but bathing is sometimes necessary, especially for those with longer fur. Here are some tips on how to acclimatise your cat to bathing:

Regular bathing helps keep your cat’s coat fresh and skin healthy, especially during seasons when outdoor dirt or shedding increase.

Nutrition & its impact on skin and coat health

A balanced, high-quality diet tailored to your cat’s life stage is the foundation for healthy skin and beautiful, shiny coats. Nutrients such as essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals play a vital role in supporting skin repair, maintaining hydration, and promoting natural shine.

To meet your kitten’s or growing cat’s unique nutritional needs, it’s best to choose foods that are specifically formulated for their stage of life. ROYAL CANIN®️ offers specialised options like their Feline Hair & Skin Care Cat Food, designed to nourish the skin and enhance coat quality, helping your cat maintain its natural glow.