Ears, Teeth and Nails

Ear cleaning, teeth cleaning and toenail trimming regularly are important components of pet hygiene. Cats, again, typically do not need ear cleaning because of their fastidious nature, but bacterial and fungal ear infections along with mite ear infections can occur. A trip to the veterinarian is necessary if an owner notices any discharge or notice their cat itching his/her ears frequently. Dogs with droopy ears or that swim often are more prone to ear infections, but all owners should keep an eye out for discharge or frequent itching of the ear in their dogs.

While many people may not think of teeth cleaning when they think of regular grooming for pets, oral hygiene is just as important for pets as for their owners. Teeth brushing or using dental products on a daily basis will help keep the pet healthy through the years. Groomers and pet care services now offer teeth brushing for busy owners and is an important component of any regular grooming and hygiene routine.

Trimming toe nails is necessary for most indoor pets. Some outdoor pets will wear down their toe nails, but it is still important to check them. Just like brushing, getting a puppy or kitten used to toenail trimming is important so the pet does not resist it later in life. Owners should stroke the legs and paws as they move down towards the paw to prevent surprise. Groomers or a veterinarian may be able to help with nail trims on difficult pets.