When it comes to grooming there's a whole lot more than meets the eye. Grooming not only cleans your cat's body, but grooms their mind as well. The repetitive, soothing motion relaxes as it cleans. Muscular tension eases as your cat's tongue performs its magic. As body and emotional stress are lapped away, your cat's emotions are nourished.

Cleanliness may be your cat's key virtue, so to groom is to exist! Your cat may also groom when in doubt. This resourceful pause gives time to regroup and create the appropriate action or inaction.

Did you ever notice that your cat may start to groom when you're miffed? It's a great distraction - for the two of you. How can you be upset with such an elegant and noble creature?

Although a cat is a natural and expert groomer, you can always be of assistance. A rubber brush is usually best for a short-haired cat. Moisten the brush with water to prevent the fur from flying. Metal combs are used for long hair. Your cat may love to be groomed, but if it's a struggle or your cat becomes over-stimulated quickly, try a grooming glove or a moistened paper towel or washcloth. Daily repetition may help to build your cat's tolerance. A sick or senior cat usually needs a grooming boost. Often a companion cat will take charge. There are those cats that delight in grooming others. Two cats grooming each other is, indeed, a masterpiece to behold - even when their high energy leads to a fake spat.

Your cat's need for cleanliness also extends to the litter box. An untidy box encourages misbehavior. So scoop frequently. Wash and scrub the box once or twice weekly. Support your cat's need for pristine hygiene. With such teamwork, your cat will stay right on target. But if an organic or behavioral issue surfaces, recognize this as your cat's signal for help.

Let your cat's devotion to purr-fect hygiene be your good housekeeping catalyst!