Last updated on: August 16, 2023 by Crystal Uys
One of the characteristics you can consider when choosing the right type of cat to bring into your home is the cat’s coat type and grooming needs. Not only does coat type determine how much grooming your cat will need, but it will also impact how much cat hair you brush away and lint that falls out of your clothes each day. Let’s talk about the pros and cons of each type of coat.
Advantages and disadvantages of the 3 types of cat hair:
Short-haired cats
Examples of breeds | Bengal, British Shorthair, Oriental Shorthair |
Grooming supplies | Rubber brush or grooming glove, pin or slicker brush |
Short-haired cats tend to have the fewest grooming requirements of all coat types. In general, short-haired cats shed little to moderately, although they tend to have medium to heavy shedding periods twice a year between seasons.
Brushing can help keep loose hair to a minimum, and a grooming mitt is a great option for bonding with your cat while keeping her coat healthy and free of loose hair. Light-colored short-haired cats can be prone to sunburn, so be sure to provide your cat with plenty of shaded areas.
Benefits
- Minimal grooming supplies
- Lowest grooming needs
- Low to moderate excretions
- Easy coat maintenance can make grooming a bonding experience
The inconvenients
- Lose a lot twice a year
- Some cats can be prone to sunburn
Long-haired cats
Examples of breeds | Himalayan, Maine Coon, Persian |
Grooming supplies | Pin or slicker brush, anti-fall brush, comb, carpet remover |
Long-haired cats tend to have moderate to high grooming needs, and it’s common for some breeds to shed moderately or more throughout the year. Some types of long hair are silky and shed only a little, such as the Siberian cat.
Be prepared to invest in several tools to keep your cat’s coat healthy and groomed. Regular brushing of the coat is important for long-haired cats to avoid matting. This is especially important for older cats, overweight cats, or other cats that may have trouble grooming themselves. Home grooming routines will create a regular bonding opportunity for you and your cat.
Benefits
- Some breeds shed little hair
- Many cats can avoid carpets on their own
- Regular grooming creates bonding opportunities
The inconvenients
- Requires multiple grooming tools
- May shed more than other coat types
hairless cats
Examples of breeds | Sphynx, Lykoi, Bambino |
Grooming supplies | Mild cat shampoo, ear cleaners, pet wipes, cat moisturizer, cat shower cap or ear covers |
Believe it or not, hairless cats can have the highest grooming needs even though you don’t have to worry about brushing them. Hairless cats tend to develop a buildup of natural oils from the skin. In cats that have hair, these oils are distributed throughout the coat, but for cats that have no or very little hair, the oils are distributed and tend to accumulate in certain areas. Routine baths are necessary for hairless cats to keep their skin healthy.
However, these cats are no more likely than other cats to like water, so you will need to work on training your cat to tolerate regular baths. These cats are also prone to sunburn, so be sure to protect your cat’s skin. The good news about hairless cats is that you don’t have to worry about them. losses all over your house!
Benefits
- No brushing required
- No loss
The inconvenients
- Highest maintenance
- Requires training to tolerate routine baths
- prone to sunburn
Choosing the right type of coat for your home
There is no exact science to choosing the type of coat that you think is the most appropriate for your home. You will need to consider a handful of factors before making your final decision, however. How often are you willing to dust, sweep or clean cat hair from your furniture and clothes? Are you ready for the greasy stains that hairless cats can leave on bedding and furniture at bath time?
Also consider any allergies or sensitivities in your home. No cat is truly hypoallergenicbut low-shedding breeds will leave less dander in your home than high-shedding breeds, making them more suitable for people with allergies and sensitivities.
Don’t forget to think about how much time you’re willing to spend caring for your cat’s coat. Most short-haired coats and some long-haired cats don’t require too much time to manage, but long-haired coats and hairless cats require very regular maintenance in the home.
Conclusion
There is no right or wrong answer as to which type of coat you prefer. Just make sure you’re prepared to meet the needs of the cat you choose to bring home. If you don’t think you can stick to a regular brushing or bathing schedule, it’s probably best to check out some of the lower maintenance breeds.
Featured Image Credit: Asichka, Shutterstock
About the Author
Ivy’s mom cat – a feisty little rescue kitten who is her one and only child. For the moment! Throughout her life, she was introduced to the special love found in bonding with a cat. Having owned several felines, she is more than certain that their love is unmatched, unconditional and unlike any other. Passionate about educating the public about all there is to know about felines, their behavior and their unique personalities, Crystal is dedicated to ensuring that all cats and their owners know the importance of mindful living. – and to love!