Do Cats Actually Like Being Brushed? A Guide to Purrs, Not Hisses

If you’re a cat owner, you’ve probably asked yourself this question, likely while holding a brush in one hand and dodging a swat from the other. The battle of the brush is a common one in many feline households. Some cats seem to melt into a purring puddle at the first stroke, while others transform into a hissing, clawing whirlwind. So, what’s the deal? Do cats like being brushed?

The short answer is: it’s complicated. A cat’s enjoyment of grooming is not a given; it’s a cultivated experience. It depends on their personality, past experiences, and, most importantly, your approach. The good news is that with a little understanding and a lot of patience, you can transform grooming from a dreaded chore into a beloved bonding ritual.

More Than Just a Pretty Coat: Why Bother Brushing?

Cats are master self-groomers, equipped with a barbed tongue that acts like a built-in comb. So why do they need our help? While they do a great job, many modern cats, especially long-haired breeds, simply have too much fur to handle on their own.

Regular brushing is a crucial part of their healthcare routine for several reasons:

• Preventing Painful Mats
  Mats are more than just an eyesore. They are tight, tangled clumps of dead hair and debris that pull on your cat's sensitive skin with every move, causing constant pain.¹ Left unchecked, mats can trap moisture and lead to nasty skin infections. In severe cases, they form a hard "pelt" that can only be removed by a professional shave.¹ Regular brushing stops these tangles before they start.

• Reducing Hairballs
  Every strand of loose hair you brush out is one less strand your cat swallows. While the occasional hairball is normal, frequent ones can signal that your cat is ingesting too much fur. This can lead to vomiting and, in serious cases, life-threatening intestinal blockages.

• Promoting a Healthy Skin & Coat
  Brushing helps distribute the natural oils (sebum) produced by your cat's skin, which waterproofs their coat and gives it a healthy sheen. The gentle stimulation also improves blood circulation to the skin.

• Strengthening Your Bond
  A gentle, pleasant grooming session can be a wonderful way to spend quality time with your cat, reinforcing trust and affection.

Speaking Cat: How to Read the Grooming Report Card

Your cat can’t tell you if they enjoy being brushed, but their body language speaks volumes. Learning to read these signals is the key to a successful session.

Signs of a Happy Customer (Contentment)

• Purring: The classic sign of a happy cat.

• Relaxed Body: A loose, floppy posture, maybe even exposing their belly.

• Leaning In: Actively pushing into the brush, especially with their head and cheeks.

• Slow Blinking: The famous "cat kiss" that signals deep trust and relaxation.

• Kneading ("Making Biscuits"): A sign of ultimate comfort and security.

• Tail Held High: A happy, confident tail is a great sign.

Warning Signs (Discomfort and Stress)

• Tail-Thwacking: A tail that starts twitching, flicking, or thumping is the first warning that their patience is wearing thin.

• Skin Rippling: You might see their skin visibly twitching, a sign of overstimulation or irritation.

• Flattened "Airplane" Ears: Ears pinned back or to the sides are a clear sign of annoyance or fear.

• Growling or Hissing: These are unmistakable vocal warnings to back off.

• Trying to Escape, Swatting, or Biting: If you see these, you’ve missed the earlier signs. Stop the session immediately.

The Root of the Rejection: Why Your Cat Might Hate Being Brushed

If your cat runs at the sight of the brush, it’s not because they’re being difficult. They have a good reason. Understanding why is the first step to fixing it.

• It Hurts!
  This is the most common reason. Trying to brush out an existing mat is painful because it pulls on the skin. Your cat may also have an underlying issue like arthritis that makes being handled uncomfortable.

• Bad Memories
  Cats have long memories. One painful or scary grooming experience is all it takes to create a lasting fear of the brush.

• Wrong Tool for the Job
  A brush with sharp wire bristles or rough edges can scratch and irritate your cat’s sensitive skin, making grooming an unpleasant experience.

• Sensory Overload
  For some cats, the repetitive stroking of the brush is simply too much stimulation, even if it isn’t painful.

The Ultimate Cat Grooming Kit

Using the right tool is half the battle. What works for a fluffy Persian will be different from what a sleek Siamese needs.

• For Long-Haired Cats (Persians, Maine Coons, Ragdolls)
  These beauties need daily attention. Your go-to tool should be a wide-toothed metal comb to work through the coat down to the skin and gently tease out tangles.
  You can follow up with a slicker brush (use gently!) to remove loose undercoat hair.

• For Short-Haired Cats (Siamese, Burmese, Domestic Shorthairs)
  A weekly brush is often enough. A rubber curry brush or a grooming glove is fantastic for lifting loose fur while giving a nice massage.
  A soft bristle brush can be used afterward to give their coat a beautiful shine.

• For the Brush-Averse Cat
  A grooming glove is a game-changer. It feels just like you’re petting them, making it much less intimidating.

Tip: Our Furgo cat detangling brush is designed for short-haired cats and long-haired breeds, preventing mats while keeping the coat silky. Shop now →

A Step-by-Step Guide to Winning Them Over

Ready to turn grooming time into bonding time? It’s all about patience and positive reinforcement.

1. Set the Scene
   Choose a time when your cat is already calm and relaxed, like after a meal or a nap. Pick a quiet spot away from household chaos.

2. Make a Good First Impression
   Don’t just ambush your cat with the brush. Leave it out for a day or two so they can sniff it and get used to it. You can even try storing it near their food to build a positive association.

3. Let Them Take the Lead
   Hold the brush out and let your cat rub their face and cheeks on it. This lets them feel in control and mark the tool with their scent, which is a sign of trust.

4. Keep it Short and Sweet
   The golden rule is to always end on a positive note, before your cat gets annoyed. The first few sessions might only be a few gentle strokes. That’s a win! 

5. Reward, Reward, Reward
   Immediately after a few successful brush strokes, give them a high-value treat, lavish praise, or some chin scratches.¹ They need to learn that brushing makes good things happen.

Example: The story of Rama, a nervous cat who would hiss at the sight of a brush, shows this method works. His owners started by simply letting him rub his head on the brush. They watched his body language carefully and stopped at the slightest sign of irritation. Over time, Rama learned to associate the brush with pleasure and eventually enjoyed full-body grooming.

When to Call for Backup: Troubleshooting and Professional Help

Sometimes, you need a little extra help.

• Tackling Mats
  For small tangles, you can try gently working them apart with your fingers, sometimes with a sprinkle of cornstarch to help. But for tight, established mats, never use scissors! A cat’s skin is thin and elastic, and it’s incredibly easy to cut them badly.¹ This is a job for a professional groomer or a vet, who can safely shave the mat off.

• When You Need a Pro
  Using a professional groomer isn’t a sign of failure; it’s a sign of responsible ownership. They have the training and tools to handle anxious cats and difficult jobs safely. They are also often the first to spot hidden health issues like lumps or skin infections. When looking for a groomer, ask about their experience with cats and look for certifications like the Certified Feline Master Groomer (CFMG) to ensure your cat is in expert hands.

Ultimately, turning brushing into a positive experience is a journey of trust. By learning your cat’s language, choosing the right tools, and having a world of patience, you can make grooming a healthy, happy, and loving part of your life together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cat Grooming

Q1. Can Kittens Be Groomed?
A: Yes! Kittens can and should be gently introduced to grooming early on. Starting young helps them get used to the process and makes brushing less stressful later in life. Always use soft, kitten-friendly tools and keep sessions short and positive.
Read more about grooming kittens →

Q2. How to Get Rid of Fleas on Cats?
A: Removing fleas requires a combination of thorough combing, appropriate flea treatments, and cleaning your cat’s environment. Using a flea comb can help remove adult fleas, while your vet can recommend safe and effective preventive products.
Full guide on flea removal →

Q3. How to Reduce Cat Shedding?
A: Regular brushing is your best defense against shedding. It removes loose hair before it ends up on your furniture (or in your cat’s stomach as hairballs). A healthy diet, hydration, and seasonal grooming adjustments can also help.
See detailed tips for reducing shedding →

Q4. Why Is My Cat Overgrooming?
A: Overgrooming can be caused by stress, allergies, skin irritation, or even boredom. If your cat is licking or biting themselves excessively, it’s important to identify the cause and address it promptly to prevent skin damage. 
Learn more about overgrooming causes and solutions →