I assumed this was some sort of expression of his love for me and it may be. Cats groom each other as a sign of comfort and bonding (you’re unlikely to see two cats who despise each other grooming each other). Especially if your cat is kneading and purring while doing this, it is likely to be a sign of contentment and acceptance. Or, it could be the shampoo you use – you never know with cats.

Kelly is a dog columnist and pet writer. She lives in the Boston-area with her three pit bulls and one neurotic cat.

Just do a little section at a time. I know that it’s good for me to have my coat brushed and know that you are doing it for my own good, but being brushed is a scary thing for me, and so I appreciate it when you do just a little section at a time, even spreading it out over a few days.

kthxbai

While some cats will sit quietly while you clip, most are apt to behave, well, like a cat. To restrain your cat yourself, place your lower arm across his neck as he lies on his side on your lap. If he fights this, you can try a cat muzzle. Using cat clippers, work fast. Always take off less if you’re not clear where the quick is.

Some people swear by cat restraint bags, which makes your cat into a mummy. Just be aware that while you may get the job done using one of these, there’s a chance your cat may never forgive you.

Some people say it helps to visualize the bathing process for yourself before beginning: how you see it unfolding is what you will make happen. You’re going to soak the cat right down to her skin, then starting from her neck to her tail you’ll lather her with warm diluted shampoo and then do a whole lot of rinsing before toweling her dry.

Keep in mind that if your cat is losing hair in conjunction with obsessive grooming behavior that’s not a result of fleas or ringworm, it could be indicative of an underlying internal condition. In those situations, your cat should be examined by a vet.