Cats are natural self-groomers, but a little help from you goes a long way — especially for shedding, hairballs, and nail health. Here are five simple habits that make a real difference.
1. Brush a few times a week
Regular brushing removes loose fur before your cat swallows it during self-grooming, which means fewer hairballs and less fur on your furniture. A wall-mounted self-grooming brush is a low-effort option — your cat can rub against it whenever they like, no restraint needed.
2. Use a deshedding glove during shedding season
During seasonal coat changes, a silicone grooming glove lets you remove loose fur while petting — most cats don't even realize they're being groomed, which makes it perfect for cats who dislike brushes.
3. Trim nails every 2-3 weeks
Overgrown nails can catch on fabric or curl into paw pads. A cordless nail grinder files nails down gradually rather than cutting, which many cats tolerate better than clippers since there's no sudden pressure.
4. Keep the litter box fresh
Grooming and litter box hygiene go hand in hand — a dirty box means more time spent self-cleaning. A covered, odor-control litter box paired with a litter-trapping mat keeps both your cat and your floors cleaner.
5. Watch for mats, especially in long-haired cats
Check behind the ears, under the arms, and around the belly weekly. Catching a small mat early means you can work it out gently; left too long, it may need a vet or groomer to remove safely.
None of this needs to take more than a few minutes a week — small, consistent habits keep your cat healthier and your home fur-free.