Do’s and Don’ts of Cat Grooming for Abu Dhabi Pet Owners

I never thought I’d be one of those people who had strong opinions about cat grooming. But then I adopted two furry little mischief-makers in Abu Dhabi, and suddenly I’m reading ingredient labels on shampoo bottles and comparing slicker brushes like I’m choosing a car.

Living in the UAE – where the summers are scorching, the sand is in the air, and ACs are running on overdrive – cat grooming isn’t just a matter of vanity. It’s health, hygiene, and sanity… for both of us.

So, here’s my take on the do’s and don’ts of cat grooming in Abu Dhabi, based on my own experiences, vet advice, and some late-night Googling.

DO: Brush Like You Mean It

Shedding season in Abu Dhabi? Trick question—it’s always shedding season.

Brushing your cat isn’t optional here. It’s essential, especially with long-haired breeds like Persians or Himalayans that are incredibly popular in the region.

I brush my cats three to four times a week. When I slack off, I pay the price with fur tumbleweeds and hairballs that look like something out of a horror movie.

Tools I Swear By:

• Slicker brush – great for detangling thick coats

   

• Rubber grooming mitt – perfect for short-haired cats and oddly satisfying to use

   

Dr. Elisabeth Gruenwald, a veterinarian at German Veterinary Clinic in Khalifa City, once mentioned in an interview that regular grooming also helps spot early signs of skin problems or parasites. Bonus points for prevention.

DON’T: Over-Bathe (Seriously, Don’t Do It)

Bathing your cat seems like a good idea… until you’re standing in the bathroom with one terrified, slippery furball and a claw mark on your cheek.

Most cats are self-cleaning pros. Bathing them too often can actually dry out their skin and mess with their natural oils.

In Abu Dhabi, I do wipe-downs with cat-safe grooming wipes, especially during sandstorm season. The dust gets everywhere, even indoors. But full-on baths? Maybe once every few months—and only if they roll in something they shouldn’t (which my younger one loves doing).

A Reddit thread on r/cats confirmed that the majority of cat owners only bathe their pets when absolutely necessary. So if you have never done it, you are not alone.

DO: Take Care of the Details (Ears, Eyes, Nails)

Grooming isn’t just about fur. The smaller, often overlooked areas like ears, eyes, and nails need care too.

Here’s my quick routine:

• Ears: Check every two weeks. If they look dirty, I use a damp cotton pad. Never use cotton swabs.

   

• Eyes: A soft cloth for any tear stains, especially common in flat-faced breeds.

   

• Nails: Trim once a month. It took practice, patience and a lot of treats.

   

Some salons like Pet Corner Abu Dhabi offer grooming packages that include ear cleaning, nail trimming and more. But if you’re doing it at home, invest in cat-specific nail clippers and check a few tutorials first.

DON’T: Assume Every Groomer Knows Cats

Here’s a horror story: I once booked a grooming session at a fancy-looking pet salon based on their Instagram photos. Turns out, they mostly handled dogs and had no idea how to manage a squirming, stressed-out cat.

Lesson learned. When choosing a groomer:

• Ask if they specialize in cats

   

• Read reviews from cat owners

   

• Look for certifications from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment

   

• Consider mobile grooming services to reduce travel-related stress

   

Mobile grooming has been a lifesaver for me. My cats are calmer, and the whole experience is less chaotic.

DO: Groom With the Climate in Mind

Abu Dhabi’s climate is hot and dry which impacts your cat more than you might think. Even indoor cats can experience dehydration, heat stress, or dry skin.

Keeping their fur mat-free helps regulate body temperature more effectively. Regular brushing also stimulates circulation and helps them manage the heat better.

Plus, brushing doubles as bonding time. My cats pretend to hate it, but deep down, I think they enjoy the attention.

DON’T: Force the Process

Some days my cat lounges through a brushing session like a spa client. Other days, she acts like the brush is an ancient torture device.

If your cat resists grooming do not turn it into a wrestling match. Try brushing after playtime when they are more relaxed or offer treats to build a positive association.

The key is consistency over duration. Five minutes a day is more effective than one long session once a month.

Bonus: Dental Care Is Grooming, Too

Dental hygiene often gets overlooked, but it’s just as important. I used to ignore it until one of my cats developed bad breath that could knock out a rhino.

Now I:

• Use dental water additives

   

• Offer dental treats regularly

   

• Occasionally attempt to use a cat toothbrush (with varying success)

   

If brushing doesn’t work for your cat, talk to your vet about alternatives. It’s all about finding what works without causing a meltdown.

Final Thoughts: Where Cat Grooming in Abu Dhabi Is Headed

The grooming culture in Abu Dhabi is evolving. More pet owners are shifting from reactive care to proactive routines. Salons are becoming more specialized, and mobile grooming is gaining traction.

However, there’s still a lack of climate-specific grooming advice. Most resources online are based on colder regions, which means UAE pet owners often have to experiment and learn as they go.

Still, progress is happening. And if my journey into cat grooming has taught me anything, it’s that this is a long-term relationship built on trust, routine, and a good lint roller.

What about you? Any grooming tips, mishaps, or must-have products you swear by? I’d love to hear them.