4 Reasons Common Why Do Cats Cry When You Brush Them?

Although cats are famous for being fastidious when it comes to grooming, there are times when they require assistance from their human companions in order to maintain the health of their fur.

When you brush your cat, it not only removes loose hair and prevents matting, but it also allows you to bond with your cat and helps them relax.

During the grooming process, some cat owners may observe their feline friends exhibiting signs of distress such as crying or discomfort.

This blog post will discuss the reasons why cats may cry when you brush them and provide tips to make grooming a more pleasant experience for both you and your cat.

Why do cats cry when you brush them?

Cats may cry or show signs of discomfort during brushing for several reasons:

Sensitivity

Cats may be sensitive to the brush or bristles used when grooming, and this can cause them discomfort.

If your cat is extra sensitive to touch, it’s best to use a softer brush or one with fewer bristles.

Additionally, brushing too aggressively can cause pain and discomfort, so always take a gentle approach and avoid tugging at the fur.

Fear

For some cats, the sound and sensation of brushing can cause fear or anxiety.

If your cat is especially skittish, it’s best to introduce them to grooming gradually and use treats as rewards for good behavior.

Additionally, talking to your cat in a soothing voice can help to calm them down and make the experience more positive.

Pain

If your cat is feeling pain due to an injury or medical condition, grooming can cause them distress.

If you suspect that your cat may be in pain, it’s best to seek veterinary help before attempting to groom them yourself.

Additionally, if your cat is elderly or overweight, extra care should be taken to ensure that grooming is done in a way that will not cause them discomfort.

Improper brushing technique

If you’re not using the correct brushing technique, your cat may cry out in pain or discomfort.

Grooming should always be done in the direction of the fur growth and with gentle, light strokes. Additionally, be mindful of brush type and pressure to avoid tugging at the fur.

What to do if your cat cries when you brush them?

If your cat cries when you brush them, consider the following steps to address the issue:

Consult a veterinarian

If you suspect that your cat may be in pain, it’s important to consult a veterinarian before attempting to groom them yourself.

Your vet can provide an assessment and suggest the best course of action for your pet.

Introduce brushing gradually

If your cat is especially skittish, start with short grooming sessions and use treats as rewards for good behavior.

Introducing your cat to the process gradually can help them become more comfortable with the process and eventually learn to enjoy it.

Choose the right brush or comb

Choosing the right brush or comb is important for both comfort and effectiveness.

If your cat has a particularly long or thick coat, using a wide-toothed comb can help reduce matting and make brushing easier.

Additionally, using a softer brush with fewer bristles can help to minimize discomfort in sensitive cats.

Use positive reinforcement

Using positive reinforcement can help to make the grooming experience more enjoyable for your cat.

Praise them during the process and offer treats as rewards when they cooperate. Additionally, speaking in a soothing voice can help to keep your cat calm and relaxed during brushing.

Additional tips

Here are some extra tips to make brushing a more enjoyable experience for your cat:

Create a calm environment

Before you start brushing, make sure the environment is calm and comfortable.

Playing some soothing music or turning on the air conditioner can help reduce stress levels and create an overall calming atmosphere for your cat.

Groom in short sessions

Grooming sessions should be kept short and the number of strokes should be gradually increased over time.

Doing so will help your cat become more comfortable with the process and decrease their fear of grooming.

Brush in the direction of hair growth

It’s important to brush your cat in the direction of hair growth.

This will reduce shedding and help keep their fur looking glossy and healthy. Additionally, brushing in the opposite direction can cause discomfort and even pain for your cat.

Check for mats and tangles

Before you start brushing your cat, check for any mats or tangles that may have formed in its fur.

If necessary, use a wide-toothed comb to gently remove the knots before proceeding with the brushing process.

Conclusion

There are several reasons why cats may cry when you brush them, such as sensitivity, pain, anxiety, or improper brushing techniques.

To make grooming more pleasant for you and your cat, figure out what is causing their discomfort and take action to resolve it.

Make sure to see your veterinarian if you think your cat is in pain or has a medical problem. Also, use positive reinforcement when grooming your cat to build a stronger relationship with them.