Persian cats have the longest, densest coat of any common breed, and a flat face that makes self-grooming harder. Left alone, that coat mats – often close to the skin, where it pulls and hurts. A short daily routine prevents almost all of it.
Daily combing: ten minutes that save the coat
A Persian’s undercoat is so fine that loose hair tangles into mats within days.
- Comb every day, ideally at the same calm time, such as after a meal.
- Start with a wide-toothed metal comb, then a fine one. Combs find tangles that brushes glide over.
- Work in small sections, from the skin outward. Hold the hair near the skin when you meet a tangle, so you don’t pull.
- Pay attention to the armpits, belly, behind the ears, the ruff and the “trousers” on the back legs.
- Keep sessions short and end with a treat. A cat who expects grooming to be pleasant comes back for it.
Never cut out a mat close to the skin with scissors – cat skin is thin and easy to nick. A tight, large mat is a job for a groomer or vet.
Do Persian cats need baths?
Unlike most cats, often yes. Many Persians need a bath every four to six weeks, because the coat gets oily and the face and rear collect mess. Our guide to whether you can bathe a cat covers the basics.
Before: comb out every tangle; water tightens mats. Trim nails. Have everything ready, with warm (not hot) water and a non-slip mat.
During: use a shampoo made for cats – human shampoo and many dog shampoos are not suitable. Our Gentle Daily Shampoo is made for dogs and cats; the soft Violet Leaf & Muslin scent is a good fit for a cat that lives on your sofa. Lather slowly, keep clear of the eyes, take extra care around the face and rinse until the water runs clean.
After: towel-dry, then use a quiet dryer on a low, warm setting while combing, if your cat tolerates it. A Persian coat left damp mats quickly.
Between baths: waterless care
For cats who hate water, or for a coat that is just a little oily, the Dry Foam Shampoo is made for dogs and cats and is leave-on safe. Massage a small amount through the coat, avoiding the eyes, and comb through as it dries.
Eyes and face
The flat Persian face often means tear staining. Wipe gently around the eyes once or twice a day with a soft cloth dampened with clean water, from the inner corner outward, using a fresh section for each eye. Keep the folds of the face clean and dry. Red, swollen or weeping eyes, or a change in discharge, need a vet.
Hairballs and the rear end
Daily combing removes the loose hair your cat would otherwise swallow, which is the best defence against hairballs. Many owners ask a groomer for a “sanitary trim” around the rear to keep it clean.
A simple Persian routine
| How often | What |
|---|---|
| Daily | Comb to the skin; wipe the eyes |
| Weekly | Check ears, nails and the rear |
| Between baths | Dry foam for an oily coat |
| Every 4–6 weeks | Bath after a full comb-out; dry completely |
| Every 2–3 months | Groomer for a tidy and sanitary trim |
When to see a vet
Matted fur close to the skin, red or flaky skin, sores, eye discharge that changes colour, constant scratching or a cat who suddenly stops grooming all need a vet.
