21 May 2025

How to Get Better at Grooming Your Pet

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Regular grooming isn't just about keeping your pet looking their best - it's essential for their health and wellbeing. Whether you have a dog, cat, rabbit, or guinea pig, learning the right techniques will make grooming easier and more enjoyable for both of you.

Kingston's nurses have lots of experience with pet grooming and this Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month, they´re sharing some tip with us below. If you´d like to learn more about grooming your furry friend then you can book a chat with them.

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How to Get Better at Pet Grooming

Our veterinary nurses in Kingston-upon-Thames explain that different pets have different grooming needs, so choosing the right tools is key.

Brushing

Dogs & cats: A slicker brush helps remove loose hair, while a comb tackles tangles. Long-haired breeds may need de-matting tools.
Rabbits & guinea pigs: A soft-bristle brush or small animal comb is gentle on their delicate fur.

Using the right amount of pressure is crucial. Too much can cause discomfort, while too little may not be effective. Always brush in the direction of hair growth and use slow, steady strokes to avoid pulling.

Washing

Don't wash too often: Dogs shouldn't be washed too often in order to avoid losing the natural oils in their coat.
Shampooing: Choose a gentle, pet-friendly shampoo and remember to wash behind their ears and inside their toes.
Using a hair dryer: If using a hair dryer on your dog, keep on a low noise and low heat setting and ensure your dog is happy. Use with the utmost care as your dog's skin is sensitive - use the cool or lowest warm setting.
Washing cats: If your cat hates water avoid bathing them and if they get really dirty or need pollen removing, you can gently wipe them with a cloth.
Washing small furries: Small furry pets should only have a gentle ‘butt bath' if they are struggling to keep themselves clean. If they are, contact us straight away as this could lead to a bigger health issue for them.

Cutting hair

Use the right equipment: Invest in high-quality, pet-specific grooming tools. Clippers with adjustable blades, rounded-tip scissors and grooming combs are essential for safe and effective coat trimming.
Keep your pet comfortable: Before starting, allow your pet time to relax and acclimatise to the grooming area. Never attempt to trim your pet's coat if they are overly anxious or agitated, as sudden movements may lead to accidental injury.
Keep your pet comfortable: Avoid trimming sensitive areas such as around the eyes, ears, or paws unless you are confident and experienced. If your pet has a matted coat or you're uncertain how to proceed safely, it's best to seek assistance from our vets at Kingston.

More grooming advice

Nail clippers: Pets need regular nail trims to prevent discomfort and mobility issues.
Pet-friendly wipes: Useful for cleaning around the face, ears, and paws.

Our veterinary nurses at Kingston advise choosing a time when your pet is calm and relaxed, such as after a meal or play session. Grooming when they're already restless can make the experience stressful for both of you. Pets can't tell us when something is wrong, so it's important to watch their body language. Signs of discomfort include:

Flattened ears or flicking tail (cats)
Lip licking or yawning (dogs)
Squirming or tensing up (rabbits & guinea pigs)
Trying to escape or vocalising

Our Kingston-upon-Thames nurses advise that if your pet shows signs of distress, take a break and try again later. Start with short grooming sessions and reward your pet with treats or praise. The more positive the experience, the easier it will be next time.

If you're unsure about grooming techniques or your pet isn't cooperating, we're here to help. Call us on 020 8549 3567 to arrange an appointment at our vet practice in Kingston-upon-Thames and our veterinary nurses can offer hands-on guidance and recommend the best products for your pet's coat type.