While cats are basically self-cleaning animals, there are times when they definitely need human assistance, in the form of claw trimming, detangling mats, routine brushing for prevention of hairballs, dental care products to help prevent tooth decay and loss, and the occasional bathing when they've rolled in something nasty. It pays to keep a kit for storing all those needed supplies, so that you don't come up short in an emergency. This list includes some of my own top choices.
If your cat does not tolerate routine toothbrushing, you can still protect him from dental decay caused by plaque build-up with triple Pet Plaque Off.
Just add a capful to every bowl (24oz) of drinking water. Ingredients: Purified water, anthium dioxide, yuccarome, mint oils, sodium benzoate. In case you are wondering, Anthium dioxide is an oxygenating agent, which means it enhances the exchange of oxygen at the cellular level and improves the pet's digestion. In the mouth, it rapidly breaks down food films which feed bacteria, viruses and micro-organisms that cause tooth decay and form plaque build-up. It cleans teeth by dissolving food and plaque on the tooth surface, not by using harsh abrasives.
C.E.T. Oral Hygiene Gel comes in a Dial-a-Dose Syringe for easy application. The thick consistency of the gel prolongs contact time on tooth surfaces for maximum effect. C.E.T. Oral Hygiene Gel contains 0.12% Chlorhexidine and Zinc Gluconate. An oral hygiene rinse is also available. C.E.T. products are available from most veterinarians.
From the well-respected Halo company comes this all-natural shampoo, which contains Aloe, JoJoba Oil, Rosemary, and other soothing herbs to help relieve irritation to the skin. The 16 oz. bottle's ingredients are detergent free, biodegradable, hypoallergenic, and absolutely free of artificial colors, fragrances, or preservatives.
Even indoor-only cats can be susceptible to fleas and ticks, as we unwittingly may carry those beasties indoors on our clothing, where they multiply in carpets and rugs. If you are concerned about the chemicals in commercial spot-on drops, you might feel more comfortable with a natural form of flea repellant. This shampoo and conditioner contains only natural products, so you can keep your cats clean and protected from fleas and ticks - a two-for-one benefit.
Earthbath Natural Grooming Wipes are a handy way to spot-clean your cat when he really isn't dirty enough to need a bath. Does your Fluffy tend to get "cling-ons" in her "britches?" These wipes are an excellent way to remove them. Soft and gentle, and a generous 7" x 8" wide, Earthbath Natural Grooming Wipes are made with Polysorbate 20 (a natural derivative of sorbitol), Green Tea Leaf Extract, Hawaiian Awapuhi Extract, Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, and Benzoic Acid (a natural preservative). They are safe to use for all cats over six weeks old. Comes in either Green Tea Leaf Fragrance Wipes or Hypo-Allergenic & Fragrance Free Wipes, for kitties with sensitive skin.
Simple Solution is nontoxic and safe for use around children and other pets. It is even safe for use on your cat's face and ears. Contains aloe vera, lanolin, and vitamins A and E (no alcohol to dry your cat's coat). Wipes away dander (great if you are allergic to cats), dirt, loose hair, dust, and odor. Simple Solution is gentle enough for daily use even on kittens 12 weeks and older.
If you have a Persian or other short-nosed cat, he may be troubled by blocked tear ducts, which cause ugly staining under the eyes. Halo Herbal Eye Wash is a natural herbal alternative that is effective, gentle and easy to use. A two-step process involves mixing two solutions that clean away brown discharge, opens up clogged tear ducts, soothes irritated tissue, and reduces swelling. Kit contains Eyebright Eyewash #1,Goldenseal Eyewash #2, and a convenient mixing bottle
A gentle, effective ear solution. Ingredients: Chamomile Extract, Sage Oil, Clove Oil, Hore Hound Extract, Southern Wood Extract, Marigold (Calendula) Extract, Penny Royal Oil, St. Johns Wort Oil, in a witch hazel base. Simply poor one-half to one capful of his soothing blend of herbal extracts into your cat's ear, fold the ear flap closed and massage gently, then let kitty shake the excess out. Halo Herbal Ear Wash eliminates ear wax, odors, prevents infections and heals abrasions, promoting healthy new cell formation. NOTE: If a very strong odor or discharge indicates a current ear infection, consult with your veterinarian before using this or any other home remedy.
