How to Brush a Cat That Hates to Be Brushed

Let’s face it—cats can be a little particular, especially when it comes to grooming. If your feline friend hates being brushed, you’re not alone. But don’t give up just yet! Grooming is essential for your cat’s health, helping to reduce shedding, matting, and even hairballs. So how do you brush a cat that simply refuses to cooperate? We’ve got some tips and tricks that can turn brushing from a nightmare into a tolerable (or even enjoyable) experience.

Why Do Some Cats Hate Being Brushed?

Before we jump into solutions, it’s helpful to understand why some cats hate grooming so much. Here are a few reasons your cat might be protesting:

• Sensitive Skin – Cats have extremely sensitive skin, and if they’ve had a bad experience with harsh brushes or rough grooming, they might associate brushing with discomfort.
• Unfamiliar Sensation – Some cats simply aren't used to the sensation of brushing. If your cat wasn’t groomed regularly as a kitten, it might take them longer to warm up to the idea.
• Fear of Restraint – Cats like to feel in control, and being held down or restricted during brushing can cause anxiety or stress.
• Past Trauma – If your cat has had a negative grooming experience, such as being pulled or pinched with a rough comb, they may have developed a grooming aversion.

Now that we know why your cat might be resistant, let’s discuss some practical strategies to make grooming a little easier—for both of you!

1. Choose the Right Brush

The first step in easing your cat’s grooming stress is to choose the right brush. Some brushes can be too rough for sensitive felines, making them more resistant to being groomed. That’s where The Buddy System Combo Bristle Pet Brush comes in.

With its 2-in-1 design—one side featuring durable rubber bristles for gentle massaging, and the other soft boar bristles for a smooth finish—you can ensure a painless experience for your cat. The gentle massaging action of the rubber side feels like a soft, calming touch, while the boar bristles help remove loose hair without pulling.

Using a brush that’s designed for comfort can change the game for cats who hate grooming.

Check out The Buddy System Combo Bristle Pet Brush here!

2. Start Slowly and Gradually

It’s tempting to try and get brushing done all at once, but that can overwhelm a nervous cat. Instead, start slow. Introduce the brush to your cat by leaving it near them during their relaxed moments. Let them sniff it and get used to its presence before you even try brushing.

When you do start brushing, begin with just a few gentle strokes. Focus on areas your cat enjoys being petted, like under the chin or along the back. Keep sessions short—maybe just 1-2 minutes at first—and gradually increase the time as your cat gets more comfortable.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

Cats love a good reward, so make sure you have some treats ready. After every brushing session, offer your cat their favorite snack or engage them with a toy. This helps them associate grooming with something they enjoy, making them more likely to cooperate in the future.

Pro tip: You can also use soothing words and a calm voice while brushing to help your cat feel at ease.

4. Pick the Right Time for Grooming

Timing is everything! If your cat is in the middle of their daily zoomies or hyperactive moments, attempting to brush them will likely end in frustration for both of you. Try to catch them when they’re relaxed, like after a meal or during a nap time.

Brushing them when they're already calm increases the likelihood that they'll tolerate—or even enjoy—the grooming session.

5. Focus on Short Sessions

It’s important not to force your cat into a long grooming session if they’re clearly unhappy. Instead, aim for several short sessions throughout the week. This can reduce the stress associated with grooming and make it feel like less of a chore for your cat.

Try brushing for just a minute or two each day, slowly increasing the length of time as they become more accustomed to the process.

6. Use Distraction Techniques

Sometimes, all you need is a little distraction. Try giving your cat a toy or something to chew on while you brush them. This can divert their attention away from the grooming and make them less likely to resist.

Another great idea is to brush your cat while they’re engaged in something enjoyable, like eating. You can introduce brushing during mealtime, where your cat is already focused on their food, making the grooming process much less stressful.

7. Try Different Brush Strokes and Pressure

Not all cats are the same, and some may prefer lighter or slower strokes, while others enjoy a firmer, quicker motion. Experiment with different strokes and pressure levels to see what your cat responds to best.

Start with gentle strokes along their back and avoid more sensitive areas like the belly or legs until they’re more comfortable. Over time, you can gradually work your way to those harder-to-brush spots.

8. Know When to Stop

If your cat is showing signs of serious distress, such as hissing, growling, or trying to bite, it’s important to stop immediately. Pushing them beyond their limits will only make future grooming sessions more difficult. Instead, try again another day when your cat is in a better mood.

Final Thoughts

Brushing a cat that hates being brushed might feel like an impossible task, but with the right approach and the right tools, you can make it a lot easier—for both of you. The Buddy System Combo Bristle Pet Brush offers a gentle yet effective solution to keep your cat's coat healthy without causing discomfort.

By taking it slow, using positive reinforcement, and creating a calm environment, you can help your cat grow more comfortable with grooming. It may take some time and patience, but in the end, you’ll both be happier for it!