When it comes to grooming Bengal cats, it's important to note that your Bengal cat’s skin produces natural oils that help to protect his skin and to keep it moisturized. Grooming for cats is not just about keeping it clean, it is mainly about improving and maintaining the condition of the skin. Grooming your cat helps to distribute its natural body oils to keep his skin healthy, shiny, and soft.
Generally cats and kittens should take a bath about once or twice a week. If you do it regularly, your cat will get used to it and it will not become a major chore.
To bathe your Bengal, fill your tub or a large sink with about 1 inch (2.54 cm) of lukewarm water – you only need enough to get his skin damp. Use a baby shampoo or something that is very mild and fragrance-free and massage it into your cat’s skin by hand or using a soft cloth.
When you are finished bathing, use a soft cloth and some warm water to remove all traces of soap. Once your cat gets used to the bathing process it may tolerate you pouring water over his back to rinse it.
How to Brush Your Bengal Cat’s Teeth
Periodontal disease can cause health issues in cats that is why it is important in keeping your cat’s teeth clean. Many cat owners neglect their cat’s dental health which is a serious mistake. Brushing your cat’s teeth is fairly easy, though you will need a special pet tooth brush and pet toothpaste to do it – you may also need to get your cat accustomed to the toothbrush and the tooth-brushing process slowly. Ideally you should be brushing your cat’s teeth every day but if he will only let you do it a few times a week then that is certainly better than nothing.
How to Trim Your Cat’s Nails
Your cat’s nails grow in the same way that your own nails grow so they need to be trimmed occasionally. Most pet owners find that trimming their cat’s nails once a week or twice a month is sufficient. Before you trim your Bengal’s nails for the first time you should have your veterinarian or a professional groomer show you how to do it.
A cat’s nail contains a blood vessel known as “quick.” The quick supplies blood to the nail, and if you cut the nail too short you could sever it. A severed quick will cause your cat pain and it will bleed profusely. The best way to avoid cutting your cat’s nails too short is to just trim the sharp tip.
Cleaning Your Cat’s Ears
Bengal cats have a normal, open ear, that’s why you do not have to worry as much about ear infections as you might with other breeds. Ear infections are most common in breeds that have folded ears because it limits the amount of air flow to the inner portion of the ear and wet ears are a breeding ground for bacteria. It is still ideal to clean your Bengal cat’s ears occasionally just to remove normal wax buildup.
To clean its ears, use a cat ear cleaning solution and squeeze a few drops into the ear canal. Then, massage the base of your cat’s ears to distribute the solution, and then wipe it away using a clean cotton balls.