Furminator for cats: what is it and how to use it

In this situation, a furminator comb becomes a real salvation. Using the device, you can remove almost all fallen hairs from your pet’s undercoat and prevent them from spreading throughout the house.

What is it - a furminator for cats

This invention was invented by a group of American specialists consisting of groomers, breeders and veterinarians. The device is not many years old, but it has managed to enter the lives of cat owners as a necessary item in their grooming arsenal.

The furminator looks like a comb with a handle. The main role here is given to the metal blade, which has an unusual sharpening. It allows you to capture hairs from the very depths of the undercoat and thereby remove almost all lost hair. The device body is made of durable plastic. The holder has an anti-slip rubber cover or rubberized inserts.

Undoubted advantages

When buying a furminator for cats, you need to understand what it is and how it differs from other accessories and combs. This will help you make the right choice. Compared to a slicker comb, the Furminator has several advantages in the fight against hair loss.

So, why do you need a furminator for cats with such a variety of grooming accessories:

1. It removes dead inner undercoat. Conventional combs remove only the top layers and do not reach the undercoat, which can accumulate for a long time, becoming entangled in the long pile. The Furminator helps remove the hard-to-reach inner layer that can be so difficult to comb out.
2. Does not spoil the structure of the coat. Despite the metal teeth, the Furminator does not damage the fragile cat skin and fur structure. It gently removes undercoat without harming the cat.
3. Prevents the formation of tangles. The inner undercoat is difficult to comb out with combs, and in long-haired breeds this can cause increased formation of tangles.
4. The cat eats less of its fur. When licking, a cat swallows a lot of hairs, and during the molting period their number doubles. This negatively affects the pet's gastrointestinal tract and can cause intestinal obstruction. By removing the inner undercoat with a Furminator, the owner helps the cat cope with excess fur and improve its health.
5. During the process itself, the grease is evenly distributed. As a result, owners note that the animals' fur becomes shinier and smoother. She looks healthy and well-groomed, like after a trip to the groomer.

Perhaps one of the advantages is indirectly the ability of the furminator to keep the house clean. The less the cat sheds, the less often you need to collect hair throughout the house.

Operating principle

To understand the principle of operation of a special comb, it is enough to imagine a modern trimmer. Only the furminator does not cut the hairs, but lifts them so as to capture the small pile from the animal’s undercoat. The owner needs to remove the hairballs from the device and throw it in the trash. At the same time, living hairs remain absolutely intact and unharmed due to the correct arrangement of the teeth. The procedure is not complicated, but it does require a little skill and time.

To remove almost all excess hair from an animal (up to 90%), it is necessary to carry out 3-4 procedures, and sometimes even less, during the molting period.

The device is durable because its blades do not bend or break, as happens when using a regular cat brush. The animal's skin is not injured. The owners assure that their pets tolerate the procedure well - for them it is absolutely painless.

What are they?

To make your pet look well-groomed, you need to brush it regularly. During this procedure, dust, dirt and dead hairs are removed from the fur. Combed fur looks much more elegant than uncombed fur, and the procedure itself, if done correctly, is also a massage for the pet’s skin. And during the molting period, combing becomes a necessary procedure, since otherwise the whole house is strewn with fallen hair.

When choosing a comb, you should focus on your pet's coat type.

Based on coat type, dogs are divided into:

• smooth-haired (pug, boxer, great dane, etc.)


Smooth-haired dachshund

• straight-haired (Rottweiler, Labrador, Akita, Beagle and others)
• wirehaired (many terriers, griffins, schnauzers)
• medium-haired (Pekingese, collie, Spitz, Samoyed, Caucasian Shepherd, etc.)
• long-haired (Yorkie, Lhasa Apso, Maltese, etc.)
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• long-haired with corded hair (komondor, corded poodle, puli)


Corded Poodle

• soft-haired (poodle, bichon, bedlington terrier, etc.)
• hairless (hairless Mexican, Chinese crested)

Dogs with different coat types require different care: for some, brushing with a massage brush once a day is enough, while others need long and thorough combing, as well as complex haircuts and grooming.

To achieve a good result, you should buy only high-quality combs for dogs, and this is best done in specialized stores.

ATTENTION! You can’t limit yourself to just one comb: to tidy up the coat of a long-haired or wire-haired dog, you use several combs and brushes that differ in shape and size of teeth.

Types of instruments

There are several models of furminators, and it is best to choose the best option taking into account the breed, health status, coat and the amount of lint that falls out. Cats should be combed with a high-quality furminator, so as not to spoil the animal’s coat. There are only three main types of tools.

For long-haired individuals

For cats with long hair, use a furminator with long teeth located at a large distance from each other. This is due to the fact that in long hair the undercoat gets tangled faster and much more strongly. The process causes the formation of tangles, which subsequently become impossible to comb. Manufacturers take into account the age and weight of the cat, and also produce special models for kittens.

The product has a special designation – “Large”, which indicates that the model is intended for adult cats with long hair. There are also two subspecies: for cats with hair lengths up to 10 cm and for those individuals whose hair length exceeds 12.5 cm.

For short-haired individuals

For cats with short hair, there are three modifications, including the weight of the animal. These modifications are designated as “Small” (small), “X-Small” (very small) and “Medium”.

Depending on the hardness of the cat's hair, there are varieties for hard or printed (soft, plush) coats. A consultant at a pet store will help you choose the appropriate model.

According to technical qualities, there are “Classic” and “Deluxe” levels. When choosing between these types, you will notice differences in the quality of the material from which the handle is made, and the presence on the Deluxe model of a button for automatically cleaning the comb from combed hairs.

For certain breeds

For British and Scottish Shorthair cats there is a special furminator suitable specifically for this breed. It is designed for the characteristic plush fur. The model is selected according to the weight and size of the cat.

For Abyssinian cats, combs are suitable that go deeper into the coat to comb out the most inaccessible layers of the undercoat. These are usually 4 cm wide ridges.

Gradation by size

The labeling of values ​​varies among different manufacturers, but generally comes down to 4 categories:

• small – (Small, Mini);
• medium (Medium, Midi);
• large (Large, Maxi);
• universal – 3(4) in 1.

The most compact option is suitable for small animals and kittens. The width of the comb of the device does not exceed 3.3 centimeters. For adult fluffies weighing 5-6 kilograms, you need to choose a furminator with a blade width of 4.5 to 7 centimeters. There are also offers for owners of large specimens: the blade width of the “Maxi” model is 10 centimeters.

Universal models are sold complete with several attachments. This allows you to change one blade to another depending on the breed of your pet. Typically, such things are used by professional groomers or owners of several animals.

How to choose a comb

When choosing a comb, you should consider several important parameters:

• The thickness of the cat's fur
• Presence of undercoat
• Length of the main hair of the coat
• Danger of fleas
• Personal preferences of the pet: how he likes to be combed and handled.

The basic choice of comb by number for cats is exactly the opposite of that of humans. If for people, the thicker the hair, the rarer the teeth or bristles of the comb should be, then for cats, the opposite is true. The thicker the fur, the more often the comb should be used. This is due to the need to constantly comb out excess hairs.

For short hair, simple bristles or sparse teeth are suitable. One type of comb will be enough. For short coats with abundant, dense undercoat, it is better to choose a model with a blade and sparse teeth.

Those with long hair will need a whole collection of hairdressing accessories. These include wide-toothed combs, slicker brushes, and mittens.

To remove fleas, it is better to use the most common comb.

Advice. An excellent method of fighting fleas is to use a wooden comb and natural essential oils.

Fleas are afraid of strong odors, but cats, on the contrary, like some essential oils. The best oils for this are mint, cedar or pine. It is important to apply only 1-3 drops to the teeth so as not to cause discomfort to the cat.

Criterias of choice

By comparing all the available types of tools with the characteristics of your pet, you can confidently make a choice. What you need to determine before purchasing:

• pet's hair length - it is better to measure with a ruler;
• weight and dimensions - if in doubt, choose a furminator with a narrower blade to reach the lint in hard-to-reach places;
• how much money are you willing to spend - the Deluxe class costs one and a half times more, but it is incomparably more convenient.

Pay attention to the country of origin. Do not buy questionable products - they may be of poor quality and therefore dangerous for your pet.

What to choose: a comb or a comb

Both the brush and the comb are equally important for caring for your pet’s fur. The difference between them is that the scratcher is attached to the wall, door frame, table leg, that is, in the place where the cat often rubs its face or back. A comb is an object that the owner will use to specifically comb out his pet’s fur.

These devices should be used together, since with the help of a comb you can comb the cat in those places where it cannot reach, and with the help of a scratcher the animal can rub itself in those places where it wants it.

Disadvantages and contraindications

Before using a furminator for cats, you need to remember that this is a device that has contraindications and some disadvantages. It is best to consult a professional before using it on your pet. In some cases it can cause harm:

1. The Furminator should not be used if the cat has lesions on the skin, as well as subcutaneous mites, dermatitis or fungal infections.
2. Some “hairless” breeds do not need to be combed with a furminator (Canadian Sphynx, Don Sphynx, Peterbald, Ukrainian Levkoy, elf and others).
3. In addition to short-haired breeds, there are breeds for which combing with a furminator is contraindicated due to the almost complete or complete absence of undercoat (Burmese, Laperm, Devon Rex, Cornish Rex, Oriental and others).

If any doubt arises, you should consult a specialist. Damage to a cat's skin takes a long time and is difficult to treat, so it is better to protect her from this trouble.

What is important to pay attention to when purchasing

To avoid the cat’s reflex to the sound of a comb, it is important to pay attention to some nuances when purchasing a device. These include:

• the thicker a pet’s fur is, the more frequent the teeth should be (it doesn’t matter what type of tool it is – a brush, comb, comb or slicker);
• For short wool, short teeth are used, and for long wool, large ones;
• the steel used to make the comb must be of high quality and not oxidize when in contact with moisture;
• To prevent the wool from becoming electrified, it is recommended to choose only natural brushes made from high-quality materials.

Looking at the photos of combing devices, you can choose the right tool for caring for your pet.

How to use a furminator for cats

Before using the device, you need to study it thoroughly: be sure to read the instructions. It is also recommended to check the serviceability of the device - inspect it from all sides. There should be no burrs on the blade.

Treatment frequency

It is especially useful to use the device during molting animals. At this time, you need to comb the fluffy often - every 1-2 days. Later, when the acute period of hair loss has passed, treatment with a furminator can be carried out less frequently - about once a month.

In summer, the procedure will be needed a little more often: a clean coat and the absence of excess hair will allow the animal to maintain normal heat exchange on hot days. Focus on the pet's condition and its comfort.

Algorithm of actions

Consider where you will place the animal - ideally it should be a table, couch or something similar covered with a non-slip material. It is advisable to have a light source and a wool basket nearby. Don't forget to prepare your pet's favorite toy - he may need to be distracted and calmed, because not all cats tolerate hygiene procedures well.

The animal's skin and fur must first be examined. Under no circumstances should you comb out if there are wounds, cuts or pustules. Postpone the procedure until the sores heal.

A long-haired cat must first be bathed to remove dirt from the hairs. Clean wool is the key to the success of the operation. The pet needs to be dried a little, combed and checked to ensure there are no tangled hairs or tangles. After this, you can start combing.

It is necessary to work with the furminator only in the direction of hair growth. Movements must be careful. Pressure and pressure on the skin should not be allowed. Sensitive areas (stomach, groin) should be treated with extreme caution - carelessness can cause pain to the animal and cause fear of the procedure.

For the first time, in order not to experience anxiety, it is better to go to a groomer and, under his guidance, carry out combing. You can also invite a specialist to your home.

How to train an adult cat to brush

Combing is an important procedure. During seasonal molting, your pet's hair begins to fall out profusely. While washing, they may swallow large hairballs, which causes digestive problems. Combing allows you to get rid of dead particles, excess hairs and lumps.

If your pet loves this treatment, you're in luck.

Animals often do not like to be brushed. The cat can escape from the hands, accidentally scratch or bite the owner, so you need to get used to the comb. It is easier to train a small cat, but older cats take a long time to adapt, so you should introduce a cat to a hairbrush gradually.

Rules for use and care of the instrument

When you first meet it, it becomes obvious that a furminator for cats is a device that combines different materials. But avoiding this does not become difficult. The simplest rules:

1. There should be no foreign objects in the cat's fur - specks and tangles; they must be removed first.
2. The device is used only on clean fur, so if the cat gets dirty, it should be washed and dried first.
3. After combing is completed, the furminator should be cleaned of hair and the blades should be covered with a protective cap.

With proper use and care, the tool will last for many years (from 5 to 10 years). The main thing is to strictly follow the rules of use.

Do I need to brush my cat?

The cat needs to be combed. Otherwise her fur will be everywhere. Brushing will not only help keep your home clean, but also remove dried dirt, remove dead hair from the surface, unravel tangles and give your pet a well-groomed appearance.

Cats need to be combed

In addition, combing cat hair is a pleasant procedure. It resembles a massage that gives cats pleasure.

Review of popular models

Among the many models, the main thing is to choose the most suitable furminator for cats, because this device will serve for many years. It should be convenient for the owner and safe for the pet.

Manufacturers and models

The most common manufacturer of furminators for cats is FURminator, because it is the first company to produce such accessories for cats and dogs.

There are other models from various manufacturers:

• Hello PET trimmer brush;
• FoOlee One Medium trimmer brush;
• furminator for cats and dogs of different sizes PetComb;
• Xiaomi Pawbby Anti-Hair Cutter Comb;
• furminator DeLIGHT;
• furminator for dogs and cats TRIXIE;
• furminator for cats Zolux.

It is better to select a model in accordance with the breed and characteristics of the pet. If you are doing this for the first time, enlist the support of experienced friends or trust a consultant at a veterinary pharmacy.

How to avoid buying counterfeits

If you buy a furminator for cats on the Internet, it is not a fact that it will be a successful purchase. The photo may show one product, but they will bring you a completely different one.

To avoid buying a fake, it is better to buy a furminator at a veterinary pharmacy or specialized pet stores. You should always check the packaging, manufacturer and availability of the warranty card.

The Furminator is a great product for owners of short-haired and long-haired cats. It saves during heavy molting and preserves the beauty and health of the pet.

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Where can I buy

If suddenly the stores in your city don’t have a suitable comb or you simply don’t have time to look for it, then you can always place an order online. Online stores provide a huge selection of various accessories for animals at fairly affordable prices. The only negative that can be highlighted is the waiting time for the order.

Best online pet supply stores:

• Lemurrr pet market chain;
• Section with combs for dogs on Aliexpress;
• Online store of pet products Zoo Passage.

How to do it yourself?

If it is not possible to purchase a product for combing cat hair at a pet store, then you can make the device yourself at home. You can use a regular comb with natural bristles or use a wide-toothed comb. You can also make a glove with your own hands to remove dead hair from your cat. For this you will need a regular work glove. Velcro with hard teeth is sewn onto the palm area and the pet is combed out. But experts note that homemade products are less effective and require time, so it is better not to spare money and purchase a special comb for cats at a pet store. In most cases, a specialized pet care product serves the owner much longer and is more convenient to use than a homemade device.

Why are they?

Cat combs for combing fur were invented by man to keep a pet’s coat impeccably clean, beautiful and in order. And if a cat is taught from childhood to the procedure of combing (and also washing his eyes and cleaning his ears) with affection and play, then he will really love this care. And it will even ask itself!

But if you don’t teach it, then don’t be surprised... by such a reaction:

This “brush” will “comb” anyone’s hair