Persian cats are among popular breeds of the feline family adopted at pets.
Like cute toy dogs, they are "people-pleasing" cats.
They have a refined appearance, are sweet-tempered and make good companions.
However, they demand a strict grooming routine.
Here's how to keep you furry ball happy and healthy.
Hair Care: Persian kitties are identified by their lush, long and flowing coats.
A cat grooms itself.
It licks its body to get rid of dirt and debris stuck in its fur and to distribute natural oils needed to maintain healthy skin.
A Persian cat grooms itself in the same manner, but not with the same efficiency.
Is it lazy? No, the volume of hair is too much for it to handle.
A Persian cat has two coats - an outer coat and an undercoat.
Hence, its coat should be combed daily.
A metal comb is ideal for the job.
Daily brushing prevents knots and matting of the fur.
It also keeps the volume of shedding in check.
Use baby wipes to wipe the fur.
Baby wipes are gentle on the skin and do not cause allergies.
You can bathe it once a month with a pet shampoo if its fir gets very tangled and dirty.
Dry the coat with a blow dryer.
Dietary Options: As a Persian cat owner, one should also pay attention to the food they serve their pet because this breed has a sensitive stomach.
Food should be fresh and preferably dry food.
Wet food, because of its high-water content, often causes diarrhea.
Wet food can be restricted to 2 times a week.
If you opt for processed cat food products, choose high-quality products designed for indoor cats.
They include ingredients that are not heavy to digest.
The best grocery store products are those free of coloring agents and ash.
Also, do not feed your cat table scraps and leftovers.
You can ask your vet for recommendations when it comes to food options for a Persian cat.
There should also be a constant supply of water.
Health Issues: Dental problems like tartar and plaque buildup are a trivial health concern in humans.
However, poor oral health can shorten the lifespan of your Persian cat.
Periodontal diseases, if left untreated, disrupt the function of other body organs.
Daily brushing is the key to a set of healthy pearly whites in cats.
There are small finger cap-like toothbrushes available for pets in the market.
They tackle problems of plaque and tartar buildup.
Fluoride, chewy toys and tartar control treats are other options to take care of tartar and plaque problems.
A Persian cat's eyes and nose needs to be looked after too.
Persian cats develop stains and discharge in the corners of the eyes when there is a problem with their tear ducts.
In this case, you should clean the buildup with medicated eye wipes designed for cats.
In addition to teeth and eyes, you should care for its claws.
Trim their claws regularly.
Play Time: Set aside time to play with your pet.
Add a scratching post and a few toys for company when it is alone.
The Dirty Job: Persian cats are a wee bit fussy and prize their privacy.
Choose a large litter box and place it in a quiet place.
Fill in with good quality, non-clumping litter.
Cleaning the litter box daily is a must with Persian cats.
If it finds the littler box dirty, it will stop using the litter box and start messing up the house.
Nowadays, there are self-cleaning or automatic litter boxes.
The system scoops up the dirty litter and deposits it in a detachable receptacle.
There are carbon filters to absorb the unpleasant odors.
You can empty the receptacle when you are free.
To Doctor, To Doctor: Your Persian cat must make a regular trip to a veterinarian's office.
A vet will ensure your pet is up-to-date with necessary immunizations.
A regular examination also enables him to detect and treat potential health concerns at the earliest.