Bringing a kitten home is exciting—those cuddles and playful pounces are irresistible! But caring for them goes beyond food and toys. Grooming is essential, too. While cats are naturally clean, they still need help with their fur, nails, ears, and overall hygiene.

Starting grooming early helps your kitten stay healthy, relaxed, and used to being handled. It strengthens your bond and lets you spot skin issues or pests early. Whether you do cat grooming at home or visit a professional, this guide will walk you through the basics of keeping your kitten looking and feeling great.

Why Grooming Your Cat Matters

Making sure your kitten looks cute is nice, but grooming is really about keeping them healthy and happy. 

• Keeps Fur Healthy

Brushing removes loose fur, dirt, and dander while spreading natural oils that keep their coat shiny. Long-haired kittens especially need regular grooming to prevent painful mats and tangles. Use a gentle cat grooming brush to make this part of your routine.

• Reduces Hairballs

Brushing also limits hairballs. When grooming themselves, cats swallow loose fur, which can cause digestive issues. Regular brushing keeps their tummies happy and your floors cleaner.

• Prevents Overgrown Nails

Trimming nails prevents them from curling into their paw pads or snagging on furniture. Overgrown nails can split or cause infections. A quick trim with the right pet grooming tools for cats keeps their paws safe and healthy.

• Keeps Ears and Eyes Clean

Wiping your kitten’s ears and eyes helps prevent wax buildup and infections. A simple once-a-week check can make a big difference. Use cat grooming products like pet-safe wipes or vet-approved solutions for safe cleaning.

• Detects Health Issues Early

Grooming time is also health check time. As you brush and handle your kitten, look for lumps, scabs, or redness. A quick glance at their ears, eyes, and nails helps catch problems before they get worse.

• Strengthens Your Bond

Gentle grooming helps your kitten feel calm and safe. Over time, these quiet moments build trust, making things like vet visits or professional cat grooming appointments easier later on.

Brushing Basics

Even short-haired kittens benefit from brushing. It removes loose hair and gets them used to being handled. Use a cat grooming brush or grooming glove for short coats, and a comb for long-haired kittens.

Brush in the direction of hair growth and keep sessions short for 5 to 10 minutes. Treats and praise help make brushing a positive experience. Pet Express carries beginner-friendly cat grooming products like slicker brushes and grooming kits to get you started.

Bathing Your Kitten

Kittens don’t need frequent baths, especially if they stay indoors. But if they get messy or have allergies, a bath every 1 to 3 months can help. Always use shampoo made for cats to avoid irritation.

Before bathing, brush out any tangles. Use lukewarm water, and avoid getting their face wet. Lather with a small amount of shampoo and rinse well. Towel-dry, and if they tolerate it, use a low-heat blow dryer. Check out Pet Express for gentle cat grooming products like mild shampoos and detanglers.

Cleaning Ears and Eyes

Clean your kitten’s ears weekly or as needed. Use cotton balls or pet wipes with a vet-approved cleaner. For eyes, gently wipe away discharge with a damp cloth, moving away from the eye.

Watch for signs of infection like swelling, strong odors, or excessive scratching. If you notice anything unusual, contact your vet right away.

Nail Trimming Tips

Trim your kitten’s nails every 2 to 3 weeks, or when you hear them clicking on the floor. Use cat nail clippers or grinders and trim only the sharp tip, avoiding the pink area called the quick.

Gently press their paw to extend the claw and clip carefully. Keep styptic powder nearby in case of bleeding. If your kitten fusses, take breaks. Pet Express offers quiet, comfortable nail clippers—perfect for cat grooming at home.

At-Home Grooming vs. Professional Services

Most cat grooming at home—brushing, nail trims, cleaning ears and eyes—can be done yourself. But if your kitten has thick fur, dislikes handling, or gets anxious, professional cat grooming can help.

Groomers have the tools and training to groom safely and spot skin problems, fleas, or other concerns. If you're searching for "cat grooming near me," Pet Express offers pet grooming services in the Philippines, handling kittens with care.

The Takeaway

Grooming plays a big role in your kitten’s health and happiness. Start early, be gentle, and make it a regular part of your routine. From brushing and nail trims to baths and ear cleaning, these small steps create a huge impact.

Whether you're grooming on your own or looking for cat grooming in the Philippines, Pet Express has everything you need. Explore our wide selection of pet grooming tools for cats, brushes, clippers, wipes, and shampoos—all designed to keep your kitten clean, comfy, and adorable.

Ready to start grooming like a pro? Visit Pet Express stores today for all your cat grooming needs!