The main condition for the healthy condition of the animal’s fur and skin is regular haircuts.
Many owners turn to professionals who groom their pets. But there are also those who can do without the help of a specialist and care for animals on their own, using a special clipper.
It has a special design and allows you to make the process of caring for pets simple and quick. A correctly selected model will easily cope with its functions and will last for many years.
But how to choose the best animal clipper from the variety available on the market and what parameters to pay attention to when purchasing?
To help potential buyers, we have compiled a rating of animal clippers in terms of price/quality ratio.
It includes only the best models of 2021. The TOP is compiled based on real consumer reviews and expert assessments.
Cat clipper at home: A useful tool for quick grooming
A cat clipper at home is an indispensable accessory in the house, especially if your pet has long hair.
This device will help you save significant money on pet beauty salons and will not require a groomer.
Cat hair needs to be trimmed primarily for hygienic purposes.
Soft and thin wool is very difficult to cut, however, it tends to form tangles and collect a large amount of dirt and debris.
Haircut options
You need to choose a clipper and type of haircut taking into account the characteristics of your pet: its coat, breed, behavior. Many owners believe that it is best to cut the fur short all over the body. Grooming experts note the popularity of this haircut option. In this case, the fur is left on the paws and head, including the tassels on the tail. They cut it with a machine, and then trim the hair with scissors.
Average length
The best option for medium length wool is to make it shorter. As a result, the cat is left with a length of one to three centimeters. The fur is not shaved, but trimmed; a special attachment is used for this.
The peculiarity of the haircut is that it reduces the number of hairs falling out and is a prevention of intestinal diseases. Before the procedure, a restrictor is put on the clipper, then the hair is cut behind the ears, on the back to the tail, shoulders and sides, belly and paws.
Long thick coat
Pets with long hair need special care. It often forms tangles due to the fact that cats wash themselves. As already mentioned, such tangles cause a lot of discomfort and can negatively affect health.
If you missed something and tangles appear on your pet’s fur, a special tangle cutter tool will help you. It is with its help that you need to remove the tangles and only then start cutting with a clipper.
Simply brushing your cat with a comb can help ease your cat's condition. For overweight cats and long-haired breeds, a partial haircut is suitable, for example, on the stomach to the armpits of the front legs and around the anus.
Smooth
If the coat is smooth, the cat may not need a full haircut. To do this, restrictive nozzles are used to remove tangles. You can also do a hygienic haircut, leaving a few millimeters of hair all over the body.
What toothpaste and brush are required for cats, their price and how often should you brush your teeth?
Tough
Wire-haired cats have three types of hairs. The fur of such pets is different in that it is not only hard to the touch, but also dense. In this case, an amateur haircut “puss in boots”, “lion’s mane”, that is, the whole body except the head, is suitable.
Atypical
If the coat is atypical and there are bald patches, then it is necessary to find out their cause. In the absence of skin diseases, a specialist should decide how best to trim the animal.
What is a cat clipper at home?
Cat clippers specially designed for home use usually have low power.
This is very important because cats, like no other pet, are irritated by loud noises.
They are equipped with special knives that easily cut specific soft cat hair.
It is especially important that a cat clipper at home can cope with the cat’s undercoat, which is difficult to trim.
Cutting cat hair is quite difficult and not every hair clipper is suitable for it.
In order to be able to cut your pet’s hair comfortably at home, you can choose:
- A universal model that adapts to any type of coat
- Special models for cat grooming
You can look at the most unusual haircuts for cats and cats here: https://kot-pes.com/uzhasnye-strizhki-kotov/
What it is?
Grooming an animal is an important manipulation designed to perform several functions at once. First of all, timely grooming of a long-haired cat makes it easier for the owner to clean the house. Owners of such cats know that hairs and scraps of fur are present in every room of the apartment, clog the sink, can get into food, and in the morning they have to get such a “gift” out of their own mouth.
Therefore, grooming a long-haired cat is often done for hygienic purposes.
The second reason for carrying out the procedure may be participation in an exhibition. In this case, the haircut has a decorative purpose and allows the four-legged participant in the event to show off in all its glory. In addition, in the hot season, the cat will feel much more comfortable if it is deprived of part of its warm “clothing”.
And finally, the main purpose of grooming is to maintain the health of the animal. Not only does a cat swallow hair when licking its coat, which causes intestinal discomfort and can lead to serious consequences, but also without timely trimming, tangles form on the coat. They constantly enlarge and grow into the skin, the animal looks unkempt, old, and the fur formed into dense clumps causes him pain.
A wool machine will help you avoid all these problems. The standard device includes a special knife that effectively cuts through the animal’s undercoat.
Before choosing a machine, it is recommended to consult with a groomer. He will tell you which type is suitable for a particular individual, and also teach you how to use the device. You can purchase a wool clipper in special departments or in an online store.
What types of machines are there?
Cat clippers are divided into two main groups: mechanical (manual) and electric.
A mechanical cat clipper looks like ordinary pliers connected with a screw.
There is a cutting surface on their edges.
Mechanical cat clipper
Electric models, in turn, are divided into:
- Vibrating
- Pendulum
- Rechargeable
- Rotary
Vibrating models with low power are suitable only for home use.
The device produces little noise. Suitable for animals with soft, medium-length hair, such as the British cat and Kurilian bobtail .
Electric cat clipper
Pendulum devices have more power.
Their main advantage is low cost. They are also used only at home.
The cordless cat clipper for home use is equipped with removable blades.
Its disadvantage is considered to be a short service life, however, you can easily find a way out of this situation by buying a second battery and, if necessary, changing it.
You can also buy a model with mixed power supply, which allows the device to additionally operate from the network.
Complete cat grooming kit
The most powerful is a rotary clipper for grooming cats at home.
With its help, you can cut even the longest and thickest cat hair, which has not even been combed beforehand with a furminator .
The built-in air cooling system allows the device to operate for a long period of time.
The best trimmers for cats
- MOSER Max 45 (1245-0066) – electric;
- GTS 888 ED – network;
- DoggyMan – mechanical;
- Andis 53165 MBG-2 ProPet – for cats and dogs;
- Pro 600 I Oster – with combined power supply.
MOSER Max 45 (1245-0066)
Professional hair clipper for cats from a German manufacturer. The two-speed model is equipped with a stainless steel blade.
Motor – rotary, powerful (45 W). Motor speed – 3000 rpm. The body is ergonomic.
The trimmer operates silently and without vibration, so cats are not afraid of the clipper; trimming an animal will not be difficult even at home. The machine copes with haircuts of any complexity, thanks to the sharp wide knife (49 mm). The presence of an effective cooling system allows you to work for a long time without interruption.
- Plus: suitable for Persian cats, copes with tangles.
- Disadvantage: high cost.
GTS 888 ED
Classic trimmer for grooming cats with A5 standard knives. The model operates very quietly and does not vibrate. The product comes with 4 attachments (3, 6, 9, 12 mm), which allows you to create complex haircuts. Rotary motor power – 30 W.
Can work with coats of varying lengths and thicknesses. Powered by network. Wire length – 3 meters. Product weight – 600 g. Packed in a stylish suitcase.
- Plus: low price.
- Disadvantage: Knives require sharpening over time.
DoggyMan
The manual cat clipper is designed in the form of a pink comb resembling the silhouette of a cat. Designed for combing and grooming. The comb has soft and flexible teeth, thanks to which the animal’s skin is not injured.
The trimmer has a movable base, which allows you to easily change the trajectory and tilt depending on the part of the body being processed and the length of the hair. The product is made in Japan.
- Plus: it combs wool efficiently and removes tangles.
- Minus: manual mode.
Andis 53165 MBG-2 ProPet
Rotary clipper for cats and small dogs made in the USA. The model has a universal quick-release knife of A5 format and is equipped with several attachments for haircuts of different shapes. The case design is ergonomic. Rotary motor power – 20 W. Motor speed – 3700 rpm. The length of the power cord is 3 meters.
It operates almost silently and does not vibrate. Product care: dry cleaning and lubricating the knife.
- Plus: light and comfortable.
- Disadvantage: high cost.
How to choose the right clipper for your cat
When choosing a cat clipper, you should start with the quality of the blade material; this directly determines how functional the tool will be.
Ceramic is considered the best material for knives, as it heats up much less than steel.
As for the noise produced by the device, then, undoubtedly, the optimal models will be those that produce the least possible amount of noise and which will not frighten the animal.
In this case, the animal will not be afraid, and the chances of cutting it evenly and neatly will increase.
Operating the machine should be as simple as possible - ergonomics are extremely important.
This applies to replacing attachments and adjusting the speed of movement of knives.
The package should include components and attachments for cutting hair on different parts of the animal’s body.
Convenient cat clipper
Secondary, but no less important details that you should pay attention to when choosing a tool are:
- battery charge indication,
- quality of wiring winding,
- high power, allowing you to cope with coarse undercoat without overheating.
The wide blade width helps cut large animals faster.
For ears and paws there should be special small attachments - trimmers.
How to trim a cat's hair without scaring it
A cat is a rather timid animal, therefore, it is advisable to hire an assistant for grooming, a person well known to the animal, who will hold and calm it.
You can learn how to care for cat hair using a furminator here: https://kot-pes.com/furminator-dlya-koshek/
You should be prepared for the fact that as soon as you make the first movements with the machine turned on, the animal will try to escape.
Persian haircut "like a lion"
Talk to your cat gently throughout the process, this will noticeably calm her down.
First, the armpits and back of the body, the genitals and anus are cut (here you need to be especially careful).
It is advisable to trim the paw pads and tail after cutting with scissors.
The cat's head is not cut; the mane is carefully trimmed, wrapping the animal in a blanket.
Is it possible to sharpen knives yourself?
It is almost impossible to sharpen knives in the device yourself.
Only a specialist knows the roughness class of the working surface and the direction of the marks on it.
After sharpening, the master must dull the side edges so that you do not cut yourself during the procedure.
When sharpening, it is imperative to maintain a perfectly flat working surface of the knife.
The marks must be strictly parallel to the side edges, or at a slight angle.
The main thing is that the working surface is not mirror-like - this will lead to the knives sticking together during operation.
To summarize, we see that sharpening a cat clipper yourself can be done incorrectly, which will ruin it.
In addition, the craftsmen carry out sharpening using professional equipment, guaranteeing the quality and reliability of the work performed.
At home or in the clinic?
Dog and cat grooming is usually done at a veterinary clinic by a professional groomer. Many cats do not go outside, and in the veterinary clinic they begin to get nervous, break out, and can be aggressive. Therefore, many people have the desire to cut their cat’s hair themselves or call a professional to their home.
How much does cat grooming cost? The price, depending on the complexity, can vary from 1000 to 3000 rubles. Grooming cats at home will cost 300-600 rubles more. If necessary, the cat will be given a sedative and even anesthesia, its ears will be cleaned, and its claws will be trimmed. But you can learn how to groom a cat yourself, which means you can save money.
How to care for your instrument
A cat clipper at home does not require complex care.
All that is necessary is to adhere to basic hygiene rules:
- The instrument should be cleaned regularly. Wait until it cools down before doing this. Carry out the procedure at least every 5 haircuts;
- You need to trim a washed animal so that the clipper does not become clogged with dust and dirt;
- To care for the device, you need to use special products - a brush and solution;
- Lubricate the device every time after cleaning.
The rules of care that are necessary for a cat clipper to last for many years at home are not at all complicated; follow them regularly and you will always be able to keep your pet’s coat in excellent condition.
Original cat haircut
Expert advice
Before you cut your cat's hair, you need to decide whether it's worth doing at all. This is the first advice that a grooming master gives. If your pet's hairs have become tangled, it makes sense to perform this procedure. It is also indicated for allergies, vomiting hair, and severe shedding. Elderly, aggressive and sick cats should not be clipped due to the likelihood of stress and the risk of cuts.
The specialist reminds:
- You cannot use a clipper intended for humans for haircuts;
- It is forbidden to use a regular razor;
- if the procedure takes place at home, you need to find an assistant;
- choose a place for a haircut;
- comb your pet;
- decide how you will cut your hair.
During the procedure, it is important to ensure that the device does not heat up too much. It's better to take breaks. It is recommended to use a special lubricant for the blades, which facilitates the process. To cut the hair correctly, the skin is gently pulled. The movements of the device should be in the direction of hair growth.
Hold the machine so as to avoid contact with the skin. There is no need to put pressure on the device, nor do you need to bring it close to the skin - the ideal distance is two to three millimeters. Do not cut wool in dangerous places: in the area of tendons, pads, ligaments. It is not recommended to touch the fur on the front legs, muzzle, or above the eyes.
Where to buy a cat clipper
Before purchasing a cat clipper, decide how often you are going to use it and how multifunctional it should be.
The choice of models, the prices of which vary quite a lot, directly depends on whether you will simply cut your pet’s hair for hygienic purposes, or plan to create masterpieces of cat hairstyles.
The tool can be purchased at:
- Online store;
- Real store;
- According to the advertisement.
The price in each of these places is different.
The quality of the purchased tool differs in the same way.
Different manufacturers and countries, different technical characteristics and functionality also contribute to the fact that the price of some models may differ significantly from others.
The online store usually has the lowest price for the device, however, the downside is that the product can only be viewed after receipt.
You can choose a product based on customer reviews left on the site.
A cheaper tool can also be purchased secondhand. But, in this case, you will not have any guarantees regarding its quality and service life.
In real retail pet stores, the price is usually higher, but the advantage of purchasing is that you can immediately inspect the product by holding it in your hands.
Comparison of the best gadgets
We decided to make a small rating to make it easier for you to navigate the world of dog machine manufacturers.
Rating of amateur options and how much they cost
Baorun received the greatest number of positive reviews. One of their main advantages is their affordable price (about 2000-4000 thousand rubles). Machines of this brand have a very low noise level, which for most buyers is an undeniable advantage.
In second place is the Kodos company. Users note the product’s noiselessness and high quality. The blade of the clipper allows you to quickly and effectively carry out a hygienic haircut (stomach and groin area). The average cost of cars of this brand is 2500-4500 thousand rubles. It is Kodos that veterinarians prefer, since some manipulations require quick removal of hair from a certain area.
Siever is in last place in the ranking. Despite the low cost (from 1,000 to 5,000 thousand rubles), buyers are less likely to purchase Siver products. Some users claim that over time, the battery loses its ability to store energy and function without charging for a long time. Others are faced with poor product quality.
Professional rating and price
Among domestic groomers, the leading position is occupied by the German brand Moser. The products are of very high quality, thanks to which the device can work for many years without a single breakdown. However, the master will have to allocate a large sum - the minimum price of professional Moser machines starts from 6 thousand rubles and can reach up to 20 thousand. Professionals, as a rule, quickly pay for the tool in the flow of clients. Among specific models, MOSER MAX 45 (11-14 thousand) and Moser Rex (MOSER REX 1230) from 5,700 rubles are especially popular.
Andis takes second place in our small ranking. The American product is also of high quality, but at a lower price: the buyer can find an effective tool for up to 15 thousand rubles. For example, the Andis super AGC 2 model sells for an average of 12-14 thousand rubles and is in great demand.
In third place is WAHL. And although it is considered one of the oldest operating companies, it is preferred by fewer groomers. This is due, first of all, to the high cost: the WAHL KM 10 model (one of the current ones) costs about 14-20 thousand rubles.
Benefits of use
With the help of a good cat clipper, you can trim your pet in comfortable conditions . Sometimes the procedure becomes a necessity, but transporting cats and their contact with unfamiliar people and equipment becomes stressful. In addition, groomer services are not cheap.
There are actually not many reasons to purchase a specialized device:
- decorative haircut when preparing an animal for an exhibition;
- creative haircut for aesthetics and giving your pet an unusual appearance;
- animal care - preventing the formation of tangles;
- Grooming long-haired cats during shedding.
Veterinarians advise trimming domestic cats in hot weather; some animals do not tolerate high temperatures well, and long hair reduces natural ventilation.
Why do you need to cut your pet's hair short from time to time?
Grooming, or trimming a cat's fur, is necessary for many reasons. These include keeping a person’s home clean, caring for a pet, preventing intestinal diseases, allergies and maintaining hygiene.
Owners of long-haired cats should be aware that their pet loses hair all the time, and not just during the shedding season. Therefore, it is advisable to periodically cut your pet's hair short to maintain its health and cleanliness in the house.
For your information! Grooming also helps to avoid tangles, which cause suffering to the cat, provoke the growth of bacteria, and disrupt blood flow and heat exchange.
The frequency of haircuts is affected by the breed and the rate of fur growth. Long-haired pets should be trimmed more often, for example, British chinchillas, Maine Coons and Redgalls should be trimmed once every five months. To begin with, the wool must be washed, dried, combed with brushes, and then trimmed. You can do this yourself or in a specialized salon.
Grooming a cat with thick, long hair
How does a cat machine differ from a human machine?
The external design and operating principle of the cat clipper resembles a regular human clipper. Naturally, many pet owners are interested in whether it is possible to trim their pet with such a device, and how one device differs from another in practice. Heterogeneous reviews on forums can be misleading - some users write that there is no difference, others indicate the opposite.
The truth is simple: yes, you can cut a cat’s hair with a simple clipper if the device:
- very powerful;
- with new, sharp blades;
- powered by mains.
In addition, you should take into account the amount of work and the characteristics of your animal. Six is much softer and thicker than human hair. It is strictly forbidden to cut a long-haired cat with a regular clipper, but it may be possible to remove mats from a breed with short hair.
In most cases, clippers for people overheat due to such non-core use, the blades quickly become dull and the hair is not cut, but “twitches,” causing great discomfort to the animal . The conclusion is obvious: such devices are not technically designed for working with animals, although they can solve minor problems.
Main nuances
Cat owners should be aware that not all animals can have their fur trimmed. The restrictions may be influenced by the following factors:
- Color-point or typing type of color. In this case, the regrown hair on the belly and back will be darker in color than before the haircut.
- Unbearable character and increased activity, when the pet cannot be brought into a calm state. In such a situation, you can use anesthesia, but first you need to take into account all the possible risks. Narcotic drugs can cause cardiac arrest, put you into a coma, and contribute to the failure of the kidneys and liver. If there is no other solution, anesthesia can be replaced with sedatives or muscle relaxants. But such an idea must be approved by a veterinarian, and drugs must be administered strictly under his guidance.
- It is not recommended to cut short-haired cats unless absolutely necessary, since in the heat their vital functions are not disrupted and tangles never form. Grooming of such breeds is only relevant in extreme situations, for example, if the animal is soiled with oil paint.
Device power type
The choice of machine is not limited by the difference in operating principles; the type of power supply is also important. There are networked, battery-powered models and combined-type devices that are powered by an outlet or batteries.
Battery models are very mobile and relatively independent from the network. The power source is a built-in or removable battery, or regular batteries. The disadvantage of a wireless device is that the time of continuous use is limited by the battery capacity, on average from 1 to 1.5 hours.
Hair clipper ZIVER-209 (battery-mains)
The power of such a device is reduced when the charge level is less than 30%.
It is logical that such a device is capable of trimming a large animal only if it has several replaceable batteries. It is possible to carry out a haircut in several stages, but this is not very convenient.
Mains power provides constant power, which reduces the overall cutting time compared to battery-powered clippers. The devices are characterized by stable, but noisier operation.
Andis AGC-2 Speed – professional animal clipper
Combined devices are universal and are in great demand, despite their relatively high cost.
WAHL machine (USA) with Super Groom combined food
Brands
Today, many companies around the world produce haircutting devices. Devices from Germany and the USA are especially popular. Eastern countries are also engaged in their manufacture, but the models they produce have not been successful among professional craftsmen.
Wahl
Wahl electric clipper
Leo Wall (USA) invented the first machine while still a student. He later opened in Sterling, where the company's head office is still located.
Already in the 60s of the twentieth century, WAHL presented the first wireless device. And two decades later, the company introduces the first cordless trimmer.
By the end of the twentieth century, it moved to a new level, purchasing the Moser brand and starting supplying its goods to Europe. Until now, WAHL cars are very popular. This brand is preferred in 156 countries around the world.
Moser Electric Dog Clipper
Moser
It began in 1946 in the town of Unterkirnach. Its founder was the German engineer Kuno Moser.
Initially, he repaired various types of industrial equipment, but later devoted himself entirely to the creation of hair cutting devices.
He presented the first model of the machine in 1959 under the name “Famos”, which was an abbreviation for “Firma Moser”.
In the 70s, the company was bought by the Ebner family and during this period the company expanded. In the 90s of the last century, a merger between Moser and Wahl took place. Currently, cars under the Moser brand are manufactured not only in Germany, but also in the USA and even in Hungary. It is the Moser models that are extremely popular among domestic animal groomers.
Andis
Andis dog clipper
At the beginning of the twentieth century, Matthew Andis was a hired worker and was engaged in the production of tools. He later quit, deciding to create his own business. Together with partners, he opened the Andis OM Manufacturing enterprise in 1920.
After the successful debut of his cat and dog clippers, Matthew founded the Andis Clipper Company. At that time, Andis models were characterized by compactness and higher performance. These qualities set the company apart from the rest.
Throughout its existence, the company and the plant were inherited in the Andis family. New managers, as a rule, worked at the enterprise from an early age and themselves proposed new and improved options. Today the company represents its products in 90 countries.
Dog clipper from the young brand Ziver
Ziver
Compared to other companies, the Ziver brand stands out for its youth. The company was founded in 2010 in Moscow. Its main direction is the production of products for the care of dogs and other animals. These are not only clippers, but also trimming knives, combs, various brushes, tangle cutters, a furminator and other accessories for pet fur.
Despite its relative youth, the Siver company has confidently occupied its market segment and gained strong popularity among consumers.
The company's factories and branches are located in Russia, Taiwan, South Korea and China. In addition to grooming tools, the Ziver company produces cosmetic devices, toys and even treats for cats and dogs, which are already quite popular in our country.
Codos
Chinese dog clipper Codos
Shenzhen Codos Electrical Appliances Co., Ltd or Kodos for short was founded in 2004 in China. Models of machines of this brand are produced for specific purposes: for veterinary work, for hygienic haircuts and trimmers.
A special feature of the company is that most of the models are powered by a battery, which needs to be charged for 1-2 hours. In offline mode, the products operate for up to 90 minutes.
This version of the haircut gadget is convenient primarily at the exit. For example, if you often perform at shows with your dog, such a machine should definitely be in your arsenal of tools to quickly correct any shortcomings before the ring.
German dog clipper Baorun
Baorun
Unfortunately, not much is known about Baorun. This is a German brand whose factory is located in China. For this reason, Baorun cars are actively sold on AliExpress. Models from this company are considered a budget option for pet owners.
The products (like Kodos) work autonomously: they are charged from the mains for up to 4 hours and can work for 60 minutes without interruption and additional recharging.
Design features: blades, weight, functionality
The result and comfort of using the machine depends on the type and quality of the blade. The best material is overheat-resistant ceramics. Less popular steel blades are considered durable, but the metal has high thermal conductivity: it heats up faster and cools down more slowly.
It is important to know! It is strictly forbidden to sharpen the blades yourself: violation of the factory balancing leads to rapid breakdown of the device. It is recommended to purchase replacement cutting elements or contact sharpening specialists.
The weight of the device should be optimal: not very light, but not heavy either. Lightweight machines are more difficult to control and vibrate too much. Large devices are less maneuverable and quickly tire your hands. Ergonomics is an important, but very subjective parameter. The machine must lie comfortably in the hand, otherwise operation will cause discomfort to the user and the pet.
The functionality of the machines lies in the presence of various adjustments to the speed of movement of the blades. The wider the settings, the more convenient it is to select the optimal operating mode.
In conclusion, it is worth paying attention to the equipment. There are many different interchangeable attachments, the use of which reduces the time required for cutting and allows you to achieve excellent results. Among the most popular, experts highlight attachments for:
- different parts of the body;
- cutting wool of different lengths.
If there are several animals of different breeds in the house, you should select accessories in accordance with the anatomical characteristics of each breed.
Recommended Models
When choosing a good device, you should listen to the opinions of professionals who not only understand technology, but also apply it in practice. If you analyze reviews of various models, you can identify several of the most successful cat clippers.
Brofa 206B2
The best among inexpensive models, it has collected many positive reviews. Corded two-speed clipper with replaceable blades is suitable for cutting medium-length wool. In general, the device copes with its task, but requires regular sharpening of the blades. The machine comes with a blade lubricant.
Moser 1245 45W
A powerful, professional device from the most popular manufacturer. The 45 W motor is suitable for grooming Persian cats, British cats or other breeds with thick hair. The two-speed model requires maintenance - after each haircut, the blades must be lubricated with special oil. Otherwise, the device is very reliable, convenient and easy to use. Moser 1245 is equipped with a special brush for cleaning cutting elements. You can also purchase replacement attachments for cutting wool of different lengths.
Features of animal grooming devices
Most consumers have long known about the clippers that are used to cut people's hair. Such devices can be found in any household appliance store, and devices for grooming (caring for a pet’s appearance) have to be looked for in pet stores. A logical question arises for cat owners: do they need to buy a separate device for grooming their pet’s hair, or will the owner’s machine be suitable? The answer is that the animal must have its own apparatus, since its fur differs from the hair of humans: firstly, cats have several types of hairs, the structure of which is different from the hair of humans, and secondly, their fur is thinner, but grows almost five times times thicker than the hair on a person's head . Therefore, despite the external similarity, the grooming device differs from a human hair clipper.
Devices intended for animals:
- are equipped with knives that have more sharp edges - the blades of equipment for people will quickly become dull on the fur and begin to pull hairs and pinch the skin;
- equipped with engines that can withstand long-term operation and cope with large volumes - the hairy part of the human head is much smaller in area than the body of a cat;
- better cooling - when the engine operates for a long time, the body and blades of the device heat up, which can cause equipment breakdowns and burns to the pet;
- less noise - the hum of the engine frightens many cats and can provoke them into aggression towards the owner/groomer;
- are made of durable materials - cars for people are not able to withstand frequent falls from a height, and scratches from cat teeth and claws quickly appear on the surface of ordinary plastic;
- are equipped with attachments designed specifically for wool of different lengths and for areas of the body of various shapes; the length of the knives is also optimally selected - up to 9 mm (versus 2 mm for devices for people).
With a regular clipper you can only trim an animal with not very thick and long hair, if you don’t have a special tool at hand, and it is undesirable to delay cutting. Perhaps the device will not break at one time, the cat will not get injured, will not get scared and will not begin to avoid caring for its fur. But for regular procedures, it is better to buy a machine that is created taking into account all the distinctive features of the cat’s anatomy and psyche.
Tips for choosing a good machine
The main rule that should be followed when choosing a trimmer is to check it before purchasing. It's worth taking a little time to explore its features and capabilities.
- Blades. The best cat clippers have ceramic blades, which do not heat up as much as metal blades during grooming.
- Noisiness. You should not choose a model that creates a lot of noise, because cats are quite shy. The animal may feel uncomfortable, thereby making the grooming process more difficult.
- Ease of use. The machine should be quite easy to use. She needs the ability to switch speeds and easily change attachments.
- Models with a battery must have a charge indicator.
- Blades with a width of 3.5 cm or more will be preferable when working with large cats.
- The machine should have a power of 15 W or more - this will allow you to cope with thick hair, trim tangles and avoid overheating.
- Please note that the set includes attachments of different sizes for trimming ears, tail and paws.
- For owners of furry breeds, it is better to choose cordless trimmers that can operate both on battery power and connected to an outlet.
If you have chosen an electric model, turn on the device, evaluate how comfortable it is in your hand, how much noise it makes and whether it heats up too much. The last point is extremely important, since if you overheat, you can burn the animal, and such machines break much faster.
How to choose?
Before purchasing the model you like, take advantage of several recommendations from experts.
- Give preference to devices with ceramic knives. They heat up less during the procedure.
- Try to avoid devices that are too loud. A cat frightened by the buzzing will break free and will not allow the haircut to be done calmly.
- Choose clippers with replaceable attachments (for clipping paws, ears, tails) and a simple operating mechanism. Check how easily the device turns on and whether it has a speed control function.
- If the choice fell on the battery option, then make sure that there is a charging indication system.
- When choosing an electric trimmer, carefully examine the quality of the wire winding.
- The minimum power of the device is 15 W. The device should cut coarse hair carefully, but not overheat.
- If you are buying equipment for a large breed cat, then choose a device with a blade width of 3.5 cm or more. This option will speed up the grooming process.
- For well-fed and fluffy pets, it is recommended to take mains-powered trimmers, since the battery charge may not be enough for one session.
- If the haircut will be performed for decorative purposes and the owner wants to create an interesting hairstyle for his pet, then it is better to choose clippers with a large number of speeds.
Before deciding to purchase a specific model, take the device in your hand. Evaluate how comfortable it is to hold it and whether it will slip out of your hands.
Turn on the device for 5-10 minutes and make sure that during this time it does not overheat. Machines that heat up quickly can cause discomfort to the animal, and they do not have a long service life.
Where to buy a cat clipper
The easiest way is to order online. For example, on the website of the Ozex online store, cat clippers can be purchased at a discount of up to 1,000 rubles until the end of December.
The range includes both inexpensive and the best professional models. Here are price examples:
- Machine Takumi 990 (power 50 Watt, Japan) - 5605 rubles;
- Machine Takumi 900ED (power 30 Watt, Japan) - 3990 rubles;
- Machine Ridian 3500 (power 15 Watt, China) - 2190 rubles;
- Machine Monella MHC-01J-Turbo (power 5 Watt, China) - 3505 rub.
For a complete catalog of cat clippers and their prices, see the link https://ozex.ru/tovary-dlya-zhivotnyh/mashinki-dlya-strizhki-koshek/.
How to trim a cat with a clipper at home
Before you start cutting, you should carefully study the instructions. Take a good look at the machine and familiarize yourself with its functionality. If the device has not been used for a long time, check whether the knives are sufficiently sharpened, clean them, disinfect them with alcohol and lubricate the cutting head with oil. If the trimmer runs on a battery, make sure it is charged.
What do you need for a haircut?
To groom your cat at home, have the following items nearby:
- table or any convenient surface;
- hair trimmer;
- thinning or regular scissors;
- rug;
- comb;
- hydrogen peroxide or other liquid for disinfection and cotton wool (in case of a cut);
- one or two assistants.
The better the place and the necessary materials are prepared, the better the result of the haircut itself will be.
Haircut algorithm at home
In order to properly trim your pet, you should adhere to the following rules:
- You need to trim the claws when the cat is lying down and an assistant is holding its paws;
- the cat will most likely react aggressively and try to escape;
- if the animal bites, you should put a plastic collar on it;
- This is followed by cutting the back, belly and sides;
- especially, care and attention should be exercised in the area around the nipples;
- You can cut either according to the growth of the fur or against it. But keep in mind that in the second option, the remaining fur will be shorter;
- It is preferable to use nozzles measuring 2-3 mm;
- if the tangles cannot be removed with a machine, you should use scissors;
- the hair on the head and paws should be left;
- in order not to cut the cat, it is necessary to stretch the skin in the cutting area;
- you don’t have to cut the tail, or leave a small brush at the tip;
- using thinning scissors you need to trim the hair on the head and tip of the tail;
- straightening the fur in the paw area and between the toes;
- bathing the animal, wiping with a towel to remove remaining cut hairs, drying with a hairdryer.
After cutting your hair, don’t forget about the trimmer itself - remove the attachments and clean them, as well as the blades, using a special brush.
Video of how to cut a cat with a clipper at home:
How to use?
Any owner is unlikely to cope with the task of grooming a cat the first time. Especially if there is a noisy device that frightens the animal. For the first session, it is better to choose a quieter device. Before moving on to the process itself, listen to these tips.
- Do not trim your cat's hair around the head, ears, or tips of the paws. The fur in these areas helps the animal navigate in space, and if you cut out part of the fur, it will confuse the cat and make it difficult for it to move around the apartment. Never trim your cat's whiskers.
- Avoid the procedure in winter if the apartment is cold. The animal may catch a cold. As a last resort, if you have a convenient clipper, you can only slightly reduce the length of the fur to prevent the formation of tangles, so that the pet is comfortable.
- An owner who is faced with grooming a cat on his own for the first time should prudently set aside several hours for the procedure, since a beginner is unlikely to cope with the task in half an hour.
- It is allowed to divide one procedure into several days. For example, cut the back part today, and the front part in a couple of days. However, it is worth knowing that in this case the hair will grow unevenly.
Next, you can move on to the cutting process itself. The session consists of the following stages.
- It is best to perform the grooming procedure together with an assistant. It’s good if the partner is familiar to the pet, then he won’t worry. One of the novice groomers should hold the cat, calm him down, cover his ears, and the second should directly shave the hair.
- It is recommended that a cat that is aggressive or frightened by increased attention wear a special collar. He will not allow the animal to bite.
- Wrap your pet tightly but carefully in a blanket and turn on the clipper away from the pet. Let your pet listen to the buzzing sound from a distance for a while to get used to the sound.
- Don't forget to talk kindly to your pet. It is unlikely that he understands the words, but cats react well to the intonation in the human voice and can understand his mood by the owner’s emotions.
- Start working from the most tangled areas, where tangles have formed. If this is still scary to do with a machine, then you can use ordinary scissors.
- Next, move to the back. Trim the hair from the paws and in the area around the groin area, gradually moving the clipper closer to the front.
- You can shave the animal along or against the grain. If you need to cut a large number of hairs, it is recommended to run the clipper against the grain.
- As soon as the haircut is finished, treat your pet with a treat. Let him remember the procedure with at least something pleasant.