Furminator for dogs - what is it and how to use it correctly

How does a furminator for cats work?

The design of this product is very simple.
In shape, this device resembles a razor, but at the end there are not blades for cutting hair, but a specially shaped comb designed to remove dead hair. Moreover, the width of this ridge is selected based on the breed characteristics of the animal. Another integral part of this device is the specially shaped rubberized handle. The fact is that the procedure for getting rid of “extra” hair from an individual is labor-intensive. And it can be dangerous in the case of a “hot-tempered” pet

Hence, it is important that this simple device sits firmly in the hand without creating additional stress on the wrist. Therefore, the shape of the handle takes into account the anatomical features of the human hand

Another useful part of the furminator is a button for quickly cleaning the device. Not all products are equipped with it, but those combs that are so equipped greatly reduce the time it takes to clean the product from collected wool. With a light press you can remove the furminator from a whole bunch of hair.

Terms of use

The essence of the furminator's work is that it does not cut off the undercoat, but catches and lifts it above the coat, without affecting the spine. This makes the device look like a small rake.

A good tool should have the following features:

• anti-slip rubber handle;
• quick cleaning button;
• rounded teeth that will not scratch the animal's skin.

Products equipped with self-sharpening blades are preferable. This extends its service life.

Preparatory activities

Before using the Furminator, it is necessary to clean the dog's hair from tangles and dust. It is recommended to pre-bathe and brush your pet with a regular brush. Dirty hair will clog the teeth of the device, and the blades may cut the spine. Also, before combing, you need to make sure that the skin is not injured.

Bathing the dog

Combing procedure

The furminator should be used carefully, without sudden movements, moving the tool in the direction of hair growth.

Particular care must be taken to treat the peritoneum, tail and adjacent areas, and hind limbs. Because the nerve endings in this area are highly sensitive, the animal may avoid the device.

Dogs with medium hair need to be brushed from top to bottom. Long-haired individuals are combed from bottom to top. When the pet gets used to the operation of the furminator, the procedure will take no more than 20 minutes.

Upon completion of the manipulation, the instrument should be washed using detergent. The use of sponges or wet wipes for these purposes is not advisable, as they dull the blades.

Furminator movement direction

In what cases should the furminator not be used?

The device is not recommended for use in the following situations:

• the presence of tangles;
• weakly defined undercoat;
• abrasions and wounds on the skin.

The Furminator is not suitable for poodles, Bergamasco shepherds, lap dogs, Komondors, terriers, and Shih Tzus.

The Furminator is not suitable for dogs whose hair is curled into plaits.

Since dogs with smooth coats have little undercoat, the accessory will be useless. In such cases, the furminator is recommended to be used as an additional tool after using a hard mitten.

An animal should be accustomed to combing gradually, in a playful way, preferably from childhood. If the puppy is afraid of the procedure, you need to pet him. If the reaction to the device is positive, you need to treat your pet with his favorite treat.

Description of the device

The idea of ​​creating the Furminator belongs to American groomers. This device appeared in pet stores relatively recently; it is a special, improved type of comb designed to remove dying undercoat on cats, dogs and rabbits. This is a hand tool equipped with durable metal teeth. Externally, the furminator resembles both a massage brush and an electric hair clipper. Its design allows it to lift and capture dead hairs and then bring them to the surface. One of the popular models of the device is shown in the photo.

According to the principle of operation, it resembles a trimmer. Animals do not experience discomfort while using the device. The teeth lift up dead hairs that have already fallen off, and the blades located between them cut off the undercoat that is still attached to the skin.

Some pet owners are confident that the new invention works like a regular comb. However, while the brush simply combs the fur, capturing a small amount of fallen hairs, the Furminator effectively removes the smallest fibers. The device does not pull out guard hairs and maintains the integrity of the skin. After treatment, you need to collect the downy fibers with a damp cloth.

The invention removes about 90% of dead hair, so seasonal periods of shedding, when animal hair falls out actively, end faster. At this time, experts advise using the tool once a week. The use of such an accessory has a positive effect on the skin of animals. It is suitable for most types of cats. The tool is not suitable only for those species of animals that have poorly developed or absent undercoat.

Furminator for dogs - what is it from A to Z

Furminator for dogs - what is it and how does it work

The Furminator is an improved comb for removing undercoat on dogs, cats, rabbits, and horses. The tool was invented by American groomers Angie and David Porter. In 2000, they patented the FURminator deShedding trademark and launched production in China.

Externally, the furminator resembles a razor, but instead of blades, a comb is attached to the handle. The teeth along their length are covered with excisions invisible to the eye, and are rounded at the tips. The distance between them is strictly adjusted so that the guard hair can pass freely.

When combing, the comb catches dead hair and lifts it to the surface without cutting or tugging. “Living” guard and integumentary hair slips between the teeth and remains intact.

Advantages and disadvantages

With a regular comb it is difficult to reach the undercoat and remove it completely; the slicker scratches the skin and tears the living hair. The Furminator clearly wins over traditional instruments:

• Removes lifeless fur faster.
• Captures the undercoat deeper and completely removes already fallen hair.
• Reduces seasonal molting time by 2 times.
• Does not cause pain, does not leave scratches.
• Massages the skin.
• It does not tear the guard hair, and after treatment the coat looks healthy and neat.
• Evenly distributes fatty lubricant, which moisturizes the skin and forms a protective film on the surface.
• Prevents tangles from forming.
• During shedding, the house looks cleaner and tidier.

Types of furminators

The device is produced by different companies, but the designs of different models of furminators, as a rule, do not have serious differences. The main element is teeth with blades and slots. Manufacturers only change the design and shape of the handle. The ergonomics of the handle makes the working process more comfortable for the owner.

There are 5 varieties of the device, which differ in blade length. When choosing a suitable device, you need to take into account the weight of your pet. It is by this criterion that the optimal blade size is selected. Below is a table that describes all types of furminators:

A discrepancy between the size of the device and the size of the animal can cause discomfort when combing. A device that is too small will not achieve the desired effect. This table will help you make the right choice of product for any pet.

In addition to the presented classification, devices are divided into two types:

• professional;
• for home animal care.

Typically, cat lovers prefer classic models of devices. Some of them have interchangeable attachments that allow you to care for different animals. The newest versions of professional devices have a button for removing hair.

Popular brands in Russia

Modern devices for combing dogs have flooded the domestic market, so it is sometimes difficult for owners to choose the right tool. Some evaluate a product by cost, others by design, and some are looking exclusively for a trendy item.

Popularity rating

In each of the lines, you can choose a tool based on your pet’s fur type. All the brands listed in the table offer quality products.

The blades easily remove excess hair without damaging the dog's skin.

Furminator comb for cats: main advantages

The furminator comb has many advantages over regular brushes for combing cats. Therefore, if a kitten appears in the house, especially a long-haired breed, you must first purchase this important accessory for caring for the animal. It allows you to prevent the wool from rolling into tangles in a timely manner and, thus, prevents the occurrence of serious problems. Here are the main advantages of the cat furminator:

Suitable for all types of cats (except hairless). If the cat has long hair, the furminator should be used directly to comb long hair and thick undercoat, to eliminate existing tangles and prevent the appearance of new ones. If the pet is short-haired, the furminator can be used for an effective massage that helps improve the overall well-being and mood of the animal. Cats usually really enjoy being brushed using a fuminator. During the procedure, they can purr peacefully, caress towards their beloved owner and express their delight in a variety of ways, because each animal has its own unique character and way of expressing joy. Brushing a cat is also a daily ritual of communication between the animal and its owner. While combing, the owner can gently talk to the cat and stroke it. Nowadays, when the fast pace of life often does not allow us to allocate enough time to communicate with pets, such an opportunity to communicate with them in a calm environment is very important.

Cats always enthusiastically accept any attention from their owner. Even those cats that usually “walk on their own” and are not used to depending on the owner become tame and affectionate when they see their favorite comb in the owner’s hands. The furminator is also a stylish accessory.

If the animal has its own permanent place at home, the furminator will become a worthy decoration of the cat's house. Cats willingly play with a comb and can use it to sharpen their teeth and claws.

Here are the main advantages of this original accessory. Thus, a furminator for cats is truly an indispensable thing in the household of any cat lover.

Attention: if there are several cats at home, each animal must have its own Furminator. Under no circumstances should you use a furminator borrowed from the owner of another cat, because using someone else’s furminator can infect your pet with blood-sucking insects, as well as various infections.

Furminator rating

On the market you can find a wide range of furminators, differing in appearance and technical characteristics (size, metal of the working area, ergonomics, weight). When choosing a tool, you should pay attention to the brand; the quality of the product often depends on this. Popular manufacturers:

FURminator Ink

An American company that owns the patent for the invention of the tool. It produces original Furminators of the highest quality, evaluated by professional groomers. All models are equipped with self-sharpening blades, which ensures long-term use of the tool. The company's product range includes two main lines - Classic and Deluxe.

Trixie

German manufacturer of pet grooming tools, equipment for dogs and cats. A distinctive feature of the models of this brand is a wide working area, as well as slightly inclined teeth. Externally, the tool is easily identified by its ergonomic black handle with gray and orange inlays.

Foolee

This French company produces mid-segment combs. The line includes tools for dogs of different sizes and coat types. The advantage is the relatively low cost and high quality of the metal in the working area.

Kudi

A Chinese brand that specializes in the production of regular combs. Among the assortment there are several furminators recommended for combing wool and preparing for grooming.

When choosing a specific model, you must check the build quality of the product and the comfort of the handle.

Typically, the combing procedure takes a lot of time, so ergonomics plays an important role in the comfort of your work.

Popular models

Devices that are convenient and economical are suitable for home use. The most popular among such models are products from FURminator. Most reviews note the fact that the fur becomes much more well-groomed after combing with this furminator. There are no negative consequences for the pet even with constant use of the tool. As a result, blood circulation improves and the coat takes on a healthy, shiny appearance. The device is especially indispensable for Persian cats.

Furminators from the German manufacturer TRIXIE also deserve a high positive rating. The offered models are designed for different levels of undercoat. Capable of handling hair of any length. The combing process using the TRIXIE furminator is quite simple and does not require much effort. The working part of the tool is made of high-strength stainless steel. The plastic handle is additionally equipped with a rubber grip. The teeth have a special structure, thanks to which only completely dead undercoat is removed.

The HelloPet furminator made in Taiwan has a lot of positive reviews. As many as 65 teeth distinguish this modern pet combing tool. With its help, you can get rid of excess hair quickly and without much effort. The set includes both a straight comb and a curved one, designed for careful processing of individual areas.

IPTS is one of the most sold brands. The low price of the furminator for cats is combined with the excellent ability of the tool to comb out fur efficiently. The device is intended primarily for representatives of the British and Scottish breeds. Unlike more expensive models, it has one drawback - the blade requires replacement every 2 years. However, this can always be done at a low cost.

Foolee furminators are incredibly stylish and colorful. They have a comfortable, curved body. A wide range of colors allows you to choose the instrument to suit your taste. According to consumer reviews, it removes undercoat best – up to 95%.

You can now see the current price of the furminator and buy it right here:

Kinds

All furminators differ in size. The area of ​​the working surface, as well as the length of the teeth, depends on this parameter. When choosing, you should take into account the breed of the dog and the characteristics of its coat. Basic types of furminators:

• Small . Recommended for small short-haired dogs. Usually has a blade up to 4.5 cm. Allows you to work with animals up to 9 kg.
• Medium . A universal solution that suits most dogs. The tool is equipped with a blade from 6 to 7 cm, the weight of the dog should not exceed 23 kg.
• Large _ Furminator for large breeds and giants. The blade has a length of 10 to 13 cm and can handle hair up to 5 cm. The optimal weight of the dog should be between 24-41 kg.

A Furminator for permanent use should be purchased when the backbone is formed and the first adult molt begins.

How to use?

Before using the device, you need to carefully examine the animal’s skin: there should be no abrasions, wounds, ulcers, or bruises. If any damage is found, the device must not be used. You cannot use the furminator if there are tangles; if there are any, they must be removed. Before combing the cat's fur with a furminator, it is advisable to bathe the cat, dry the fur well and comb it with a brush, which is usually used for combing a pet.

Long-haired cats should be combed from the lower layers, and the upper part should be lifted with hairdresser's clips. The fur is combed out in strands from the tummy to the spine, slowly moving from the base to the ends, without pressing or staying in one place for a long time.

Particular care should be taken when combing the abdomen, paws, and under the tail, especially in males.

When grooming long-haired cats, a problem can arise when too much hair is caught. It’s easier with short-haired pets: you can start combing them from any place, but you need to move according to the hair growth. This video shows the device in action.

How often should you brush your fur with a furminator?

Maximum shedding occurs at the beginning of spring and autumn. During this period, you should comb your pets more often - 2-3 times a week. With the beginning of summer, when hot weather sets in, the use of a furminator for cats is also recommended, even in the absence of shedding. Judging by the reviews of people who have used the device, removing excess undercoat will help the animal cope with the heat more easily.

For long-haired cats, it is enough to use the Furminator once a month throughout the year. Short-haired dogs can be combed no more than 5-7 times a year.

What breeds should the Furminator not be used on?

The device is not used for cats that are hairless or have no undercoat. Such breeds are La Perm, Sphinx, Cornish Rex, Devon Rex, Turkish Angora, Tiffany, Balinese (Balinese), Singaporean, Ragamuffin, Burmese, Oriental, Corrat, Bombay, Javanese, York Chocolate, Turkish Van and some other short-haired cat breeds.

The reason why it is not allowed to use the Furminator for the listed cat breeds is their lack of undercoat. They may not be hairless, because the undercoat is not visible under the main guard hair. The undercoat provides additional volume to the coat. The listed short-haired cat breeds should be combed 5-6 times a year with a regular brush.

If there are no contraindications for use, then today there is no better remedy for combating shedding in cats. The device is easy to use and painless for your pet. After using it, there will be much less wool in the house.

Terms of use

Before you start using the tool, you must read the instructions. There are general rules regarding how to properly use a furminator:

• The animal's skin must be carefully examined for wounds, abrasions, bruises, and ulcers. If there is any damage to the skin, the device cannot be used. All tangles must be removed.
• It is advisable to bathe your pet before the procedure. Dry the wool thoroughly and comb it with a regular comb.
• Combing with a furminator is carried out only in the direction of hair growth. Otherwise, we risk damaging the guard hair. Movements should be light, without pressure. Using force can cause pain and irritation to your pet. Particular care should be taken with the brush in the genital area, on the stomach and paws. It is advisable to watch the video before you start using the furminator for cats and cats.

Although the procedure for combing your pet using a furminator can be carried out at any time, experts recommend doing this during the animal’s molting period. It usually occurs at the beginning of spring and end of summer. Brushing is done at least 2 times a week. At other times, the procedure is done once a month. For short-haired breeds, 5–7 times a year is sufficient. It is recommended to comb your cat in hot weather. Removing excess fur will ease its condition, helping it cope with the heat.

How to choose?

When looking at purchasing one or another product for combing and at the same time trimming excess hair from cats, you need to pay attention to several factors. For example, a key purchasing criterion is the length of the teeth, which must correspond to the length of the hairs of a particular animal.

If your cat has long hair, a model with short and fine teeth will not cope with the undercoat, as it simply will not be able to reach it. The same can be said about models for short-haired animals. Furminators with long and sparse teeth are not suitable for them.

It is important to choose the correct width of the comb you choose. If it is too small, then combing the fur will take a lot of time, and not only the animal, but also the owner will get tired

For a large cat you need a large comb, for a small kitten - a small one. At the same time, having picked up the model you like, it is important to have at least a rough idea of ​​how you will comb out the hair in hard-to-reach places with it.

No less important is the quality indicator of the teeth. They must be even and smooth, without any nicks or other defects. Such a comb is completely unsuitable for use, since it will cling to the hair and injure the skin, like a slicker brush. To assess the quality of the degree of sharpening, you can run a comb through your hair. If the brush doesn't tug or tear them, it's good. You can buy such a thing, but when even the slightest discomfort is noticed, you should not take the product.

There are times when purchased brushes slip out of your hand during use. To easily remove excess hair with a furminator for cats, you need to look for a device with a comfortable handle. You can determine the degree of convenience by holding the product in your hand. The end of the handle should be convex. It is good that it itself is made of rubberized material. If the accessory is uncomfortable, your hand will quickly get tired in the process of removing dead hair.

If you have enough funds for the purchase, it is better to purchase a product with an injection button. It simplifies the cleaning of the device itself, which is very convenient for cat owners. However, if the budget is strictly limited, you will have to purchase an option with manual cleaning of the device. The only consolation for the buyer in this case is the fact that monolithic devices last longer.

In order not to doubt the quality of the product, you need to inquire in advance about the store’s rating from customers. This can be done online by scrolling through information about a specific supplier of a particular brand. You must choose a product from a trusted seller with a good reputation. If desired, the buyer is always provided with documentation for any product in the form of operating instructions and a quality certificate.

Who is not suitable for?

The Furminator can be used for dogs with coats of varying lengths and thick undercoat. The tool is not recommended for the following conditions:

• multiple tangles throughout the body;
• lack of undercoat;
• mechanical damage to the skin: abrasions, wounds;
• breeds with silky hair - lap dogs, Shih Tzu, Yorkshire terriers;
• rough coat (Airedale Terrier, Schnauzer, Irish Terrier and Spaniel);
• Breeds with curled hair are Puli, Havanese and Komondor.

A Furminator is not required for those with very short hair, as well as for hairless dogs (Chinese Crested Dog, Peruvian Hairless Dog).

Furminator for cats - what is it?

Pets are like the treasure of your home. All household members love, cherish, protect and pamper the cat. He repays not only affection, but also the ubiquitous fur. It’s annoying to find wool on clothes, towels and household items. The shedding process is also unpleasant for cats: when licking, the fur gets into the stomach and causes discomfort, including vomiting.

There is a simple solution to this problem (adhesive tape and brushes are unlikely to help completely). The Furminator allows you to significantly save energy and time on cleaning.

Important! The Furminator will help reduce the shedding period by half. The tool appeared on the initiative of a groomer from the USA (pet hair care specialist)

A cat comb (Furminator) is similar to a razor, but the tool is designed for thoroughly and accurately combing out unwanted fur. There are different sizes of furminators for different animals, but in general the design consists of a handle and a comb blade

The tool appeared on the initiative of a groomer from the USA (a specialist in caring for pet hair). A cat comb (Furminator) is similar to a razor, but the tool is designed for thoroughly and accurately combing out unwanted fur. There are different sizes of furminators for different animals, but in general the design consists of a handle and a comb blade.

The secret to the effectiveness and popularity of this comb is the special arrangement of the teeth and their sharpening. The uniqueness is that it allows you to remove dead hair while leaving a healthy coat. Thanks to the teeth, fluff clings to the teeth and is removed, while healthy hairs slide between them.

Note! The Furminator distributes the oil that accumulates at the roots of the hair throughout the coat, making it healthier and more well-groomed in appearance. Advantages of the tool over a regular comb:

Advantages of the tool over a regular comb:

• reduces the intensity of hair loss by 90%;
• does not pull out the integumentary hairs, gives them shine and silkiness;
• can be used on dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs and other animals with similar coats;
• is elementary to use;
• eliminates tangles and helps make the coat as well-groomed as if the cat had just been picked up from a professional beauty salon.

Furminator for dogs: varieties and rules of use

Every pet needs care. Many owners are concerned about the nutrition and health of their four-legged friends, but ignore grooming procedures.

Given the abundance of hair on some pets, brushing can be a lot of trouble. An indispensable assistant in home grooming is the furminator for dogs.

Features of using the accessory and a review of leading brands are discussed in the article.

Furminator for dogs

Tips for grooming dogs

Almost all breeds need help getting rid of lost hair. To accustom the animal to this event, you should start combing from an early age. Taking into account the characteristics of the fur, the owner must choose a suitable tool that will not cause discomfort to the pet.

Over the past decades, a large number of hair care products have been developed.

Hair care is considered both an aesthetic and hygienic manipulation. The brushing process removes any insects that have gotten into the fur, including parasites. In addition, dirt, dead hair and dust are brushed away. As an added bonus, this ceremony is a good massage that has a positive effect on blood circulation.

During combing, subcutaneous blood circulation is stimulated

Recommendations for optimizing the procedure:

1. First of all, you should use a comb with rare teeth. This rule does not apply to short-haired individuals.
2. In dogs with long hair, especially spaniels and setters, special attention is paid to the ears, hindquarters and tail. In schnauzers and lap dogs, the muzzle is considered the most vulnerable place.
3. At the end of combing, it is advisable to run a special brush in the direction of hair growth, starting from the head.
4. The slicker is used mainly for pets with a normal type of hair. It is not suitable for long-haired individuals.
5. If combing is not possible at home, you should contact a groomer - an animal care specialist.

The master will not only be able to give the coat a well-groomed appearance, but will also remove tangles or thorns.

Combing depending on coat type

Since there are 7 types of hair, it is necessary to figure out which type of hair your pet belongs to. This will help you properly organize your care procedures and choose the appropriate accessory.

Dogs have 7 types of coats

Table 1. Dog coat types

TypeCharacteristic

How and with what to comb a dog's hair

Many accessories have been developed to keep your pet's coat in good shape:

• scratchers;
• combs;
• furminators;
• puffers;
• gloves;
• tangle cutters.

The comb is considered a universal tool for combing

There are certain requirements for choosing combs:

1. To prevent damage to the animal's skin, the comb must have blunt teeth. The owner can experience the safety of the tool for himself.
2. It is recommended to choose a comb whose teeth are shorter in length than the dog's fur.
3. It is advisable to buy 2 combs - for primary care in order to remove matted hair and finishing.
4. A comb with 0.5 mm teeth is designed to remove parasites. It will not cope with thick hair, but it will help remove shed hair.

For pets with silky and long hair, use a large brush.

The slicker is suitable for thick coats

Table 2. Grooming Tools

Tool typeFeatures of use

Furminators for dog grooming

This device is a godsend for owners of pets with a pronounced undercoat. The Furminator has the following characteristics:

• painlessly cuts off dead hair;
• accelerates the molting process;
• promotes shine of the coat;
• prevents the formation of matted hairs;
• reduces combing time;
• does not damage guard hairs;
• does not injure the skin;
• Suitable for almost all breeds, with the exception of representatives with a small undercoat.

Furminator - an effective tool for grooming

After using the furminator, matted hair that interferes with normal heat exchange is removed. Without this procedure, the animal will suffer from overheating in the summer.

In addition, after this manipulation, the new coat grows faster, and the dog feels more comfortable in the cold. The tool is convenient and easy to use. No other grooming accessory can provide such an effect.

Even with manual plucking it is not possible to achieve such results.

This manual assistant is indispensable before pets participate in competitions and exhibitions. After using it, the coat looks well-groomed and healthy.

Furminator solves the problem of the presence of wool on household items

What breeds are the Furminator suitable for?

This accessory is necessary for pets with dense undercoat. The length and thickness of the coat are not taken into account when selecting a combing product. Typical representatives of this type are:

• shepherd dogs;
• setters;
• retrievers;
• husky;
• Saint Bernards;
• bobtails;
• likes;
• spaniels.

It is advisable to use the device once a month and throughout the molting period.

The possibility of using a furminator does not depend on the length of the coat

Furminator selection

The Furminator should be selected based on the length of your pet’s fur:

1. For long-haired individuals, such as Golden Retriever, Hovawart, Kuvasz, Groenendael, Afghan Hound, it is advisable to purchase a tool with a large working surface and teeth of maximum length.
2. For pets with short hair, such as the Russian Hound, Miniature Dachshund, Kangal, German Boxer, Amstaff, a tool with smaller teeth that fit tightly together is suitable.

Description of the furminator

The Furminator is a hand-held tool for pet hair care, with which you can easily and painlessly rid your pet of dead fluff that has not yet begun to fall out and, thereby, significantly reduce the amount of hair in the house.

Types of furminators

Externally, this device, which makes life easier for owners of cats, dogs and other living creatures, resembles a small rake mounted on a rather thick handle, often equipped with spikes. Some come with interchangeable attachments to suit cats with different coat types, making them especially convenient for owners of multiple pets.

The Furminator is truly capable of reducing the molting period of an animal by almost half, and its effectiveness is due to the fact that the working surface of the tool has a special sharpening, and the distance between its teeth is calculated with incredible accuracy. The teeth themselves also have an original shape: they are designed in such a way that they do not catch or tug on the guard fur, but at the same time do an excellent job of combing out fluff. Moreover, the furminator also distributes the fatty lubricant that accumulates at the bottom of the hair along the entire length of the hair, due to which the animal’s fur becomes smooth, shiny, silky and looks well-groomed.

They all differ from each other in the design of the working surface, while the handle they all have is almost the same in the type of its device. Basically, these differences relate to the width of the nozzle, the distance between its teeth and the length of the teeth itself.

All furminator models can be divided into two types: deluxe and classic. Their main difference is the material the handle is made of and how ergonomic the device is when using it. In classic-type devices, the wool is removed manually after combing. And deluxe furminators are equipped with a special button, when pressed, the tool is cleared of combed wool.

Advantages and disadvantages

If you compare the Furminator with a regular cat comb, the comparison will clearly be in its favor and here’s why:

• Using this device, you can remove up to 90% of hairs, including those that have already died, but have not yet completely separated from the animal’s skin.
• Thanks to the special design of the furminator teeth, the guard coat does not get touched or injured during combing.
• Even in animals with thin and long hair, after treating them with this device, tangles do not form.
• During the procedure, the cat’s skin is enriched with oxygen, which helps improve the condition of the epidermis.
• The sebaceous glands begin to work more actively and more productively.
• The Furminator helps to distribute the fat layer more evenly throughout the coat, which improves its condition and gives the pet a well-groomed appearance. In addition, it helps protect the cat's fur from negative external influences.
• Using this tool does not cause pain or discomfort to the animal; on the contrary, many cats like this procedure much more than brushing with a comb.

The Furminator not only gives cats a beautiful and well-groomed appearance, but also relieves them of such unpleasant consequences of shedding as swallowing fur while licking, which helps to avoid many diseases, such as gastritis.

Is it suitable for all cats?

Despite the fact that the Furminator is very convenient and that many of its models have been developed, seemingly suitable for any domestic cat, there are breeds for which this tool is not suitable for one reason or another. These include:

• All varieties of sphinxes, as well as their mestizos, which by nature do not have hair.
• Devon Rex
• Laperm
• Burmanskaya
• Singaporean
• Oriental
• Turkish Angora

The main criterion when determining whether a furminator is needed to care for a cat's fur is the presence of undercoat. If it is absent or almost undeveloped, this device turns out to be completely useless. Therefore, animals of these and some other breeds, which are characterized by the absence of undercoat, should be combed with a regular cat comb.

Where to buy a furminator?

In a specialty store for pets.

The advantages of the purchase are the opportunity to see and touch the product live, they will also give you a receipt and, most likely, warranty support. The downside of the purchase is that in almost all specialized stores the price for the furminator is overestimated by an average of 15-30%.

Online.

Online stores offer a huge selection of all kinds of models, the price of which can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer, model and the store itself, as well as the availability of discounts and specials. proposals. The disadvantage of buying online is long delivery, the process of which is almost impossible to control.

Advantages and disadvantages

Despite the fact that the device does not make any revolutionary changes in the care of cat hair, it has its advantages over a slicker or a regular brush for combing hair. Due to its ergonomic shape, the furminator is more convenient to use. It is easier to use than a regular comb. It allows you to get rid of all dead hair, no matter how much it is.

Rarely does a breeder think about the fact that cats wear dead fur for months. It accumulates in the deep layers of the coat, and therefore does not allow new wool to grow fully. The Furminator does an excellent job of removing dead undercoat, which not only falls out, but also clogs the body, collecting in tangles. Its blade is made of strong and durable steel, it does not pull guard hairs, and its use does not cause pain to the animal.

By promptly removing dead hair, the device helps improve the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Due to the ergonomics of the handle, the load on the owner’s hand is reduced when using it

Due to the built-in spotlight, cleaning the device does not require much effort, which is important for the owner. To some, the device may seem like a useless waste of money, but practice proves that the furminator has its advantages compared to a slicker brush or a regular brush.

• His trimmer blades don't dull long enough. The device does not need sharpening.
• It pays for itself, while during the same period of use you have to change several combs and brushes.
• Dead fur is combed out in one movement, which is not the case with combs and classic combing brushes.
• Using the device allows you to shorten the period of seasonal shedding and get rid of most dead hair at once.
• In the process of combing the fur using a furminator, the natural fatty lubricant is evenly distributed, protecting the guard hairs and undercoat from dirt, dust, water and parasites.
• Cats like these devices more than other combs and slickers; over time, pets get used to them and enjoy the procedure.
• The accessories do an excellent job of combing out fur, thereby reducing the volume of swallowed hairs that end up in the cat's stomach when licking.

Cleaning the furminator is easy; it does not harm the skin during use. This product can be used for pets of different breeds; it is often purchased for dogs and guinea pigs. It has a beneficial effect on blood circulation, as a result of which it can be used as a massager. Manufacturers claim that regular use can reduce hair loss.

However, the accessory cannot be called a device for all problems with cat hair. You need to use it, like a comb, constantly. It is a measure to prevent tangles and reduce dead fur. The Furminator does not replace regular brushes, and therefore they are also necessary in caring for your pet’s coat.

What it is

To make grooming a dog easier, the pet industry offers various tools - combs, brushes, rakes, slickers.

A new “word” in pet care is the furminator, which can easily replace all other devices.

If you use the device regularly during periods of shedding, then very soon you can forget about such an unpleasant factor as tufts of fur all over the house.

Design and principle of operation of the device

The Furminator, even before it went on sale, immediately became indispensable in animal care. The device is easy to use and completely harmless to pets.

If we talk about design features, then these are the same rakes, but more advanced in design and outwardly similar to a cutting machine. The knife, mounted on a comfortable handle, has well-sharpened teeth, which allows you to smoothly remove hair rather than pull it out.

The working surface of the device has different sizes (standard 3-13 cm), which makes it possible to choose a tool for the type of your pet.

As for the principle of operation, everything is simple here too: the teeth of the knife capture only dead undercoat, without affecting the healthy coat (as if passing through it). In this case, there is no contact with the skin completely.

This action is ensured by design features. In a metal comb system, the teeth on one side of the blade are longer than the other.

How to choose a furminator for a cat

When choosing a comb for your pet, you should know that there are two types of original furminators:

• Deluxe;
• Classic.

Both types of instruments are of high quality. They differ only in the material, ergonomics of the handles and the presence of a button for ridding the furminator of fur in the Deluxe type.

Deluxe type furminators are equipped with ergonomic handles

Furminators vary in comb width:

• 3.2 cm - for kittens;
• 4.5 cm - for cats weighing no more than 5 kg;
• 6.8 cm - for large breed cats weighing more than 5 kg.

There is also a tool for long-haired and short-haired cats, the difference is in the size of the metal teeth. The correct choice of the device plays an important role, since only in this case you will not cause pain to the pet or damage its fur.

How to spot a fake

You can often see furminators at a fairly low price (100–250 rubles) in stores or on the Internet. Most likely, such products are fake, because the original furminator costs at least two thousand rubles. It is difficult for an ordinary person to determine whether this is an original or a fake, but it is still possible to distinguish them. Most often, unscrupulous manufacturers completely copy the appearance and packaging of the product, but do not pay due attention to small details:

• On the top of the package there should be the words “anti-shedding tool” printed in four foreign languages.
• The blades of the original tool are slightly curved; in the fakes they are straight.
• The original handle has a metal base under rubber; in fakes the handle is entirely rubber.
• The blade of the original has the original number stamped on it, while the fake has the number one for all tools.

How the furminator dog comb works and how to use it correctly

Many dogs need weekly grooming. But since visits to the groomer require certain financial costs, owners groom their pets at home. The number of treatments per week depends on the breed and its coat type, and some of them require a Furminator.

After domestication and centuries of selective work, dogs have developed many varieties of coats. They all differ in structure, length, density and fluffiness, as well as in the nature of the fit. Conventionally, several types of wool can be distinguished:

• short-haired (with or without weak undercoat) - Doberman, Boxer;
• long-haired (straight, curly, wavy, corded) - Collie, Italian lap dog, Portuguese water dog;
• “wild” (normal, short, long) - German Shepherd, American Staffordshire Terrier;
• wire-haired (wiry, conical, spindle-shaped) - Dachshund, Jack Russell Terrier, Jagdterrier.

Between each variety, transitional forms can be distinguished, which differ in the abundance of undercoat, structure, etc. There are also hairless breeds (Mexican Hairless Dog) and with lamellar hair (Puli).

What is it for?

The history of the instrument begins at the end of the twentieth century. In 1997, American animal groomers came up with the Furminator. Its main purpose is to comb cats and dogs with a variety of coat types.

The device removes dead hair, tidies up the undercoat and reduces the number of grooming sessions. The invention turned out to be very effective and quickly gained worldwide popularity.

It is purchased by both groomers and ordinary pet owners.

A dog is scratched with a furminator

Today, there are many brands that produce tools for caring for dogs, cats and even rodents. Furminators are manufactured not only by the USA (FURminator), but also by Germany (Trixie), Taiwan (HelloPet) and other countries.

Dimensions

The tool is available in several sizes, since its main “audience” is animals of different types and sizes. The smallest model is the “toy” model. The width of the working surface ranges from 1.25 cm to 3.2 cm. The “small” variety is slightly larger - 1.75-4.5 cm.

For larger pets there is a “medium” type. Its dimensions are as follows: 2.65-6.7 cm. For large dogs, “large” models are available - 4-10.2 cm. The “giant” type is created for very large pets, such as the Caucasian Shepherd Dog.

Its working surface width is 5-12.7 cm.

There is a division of furminators according to the length of the blades: short (for coats up to 5 cm) and long (for coats larger than 5 cm).

How to use it correctly

Before using the furminator, your pet must first be combed with a slicker or comb to get rid of tangles in advance. Otherwise, the tool will pull out the fur, which is fraught with severe pain and an aggressive reaction on the part of the pet.

All grooming procedures are carried out exclusively on dirty wool.

Once the combing is complete, work with the furminator begins. They are smoothly and slowly moved in the direction of the fur, parallel to the skin (so that the blades do not scratch), collecting dead hairs, as in the photo. The most sensitive areas of a dog are the stomach and groin area. Any incorrect actions in those places cause discomfort. Therefore, it is highly advisable not to use a furminator there, but to limit yourself to a powder brush or comb.

Since dogs with thick hair shed quite profusely, the owner should lay a cloth on the surface on which he will place the combed hairs.

A German Shepherd is processed with a tool

Benefits of the new tool

Perhaps the most important advantage of the furminator is its durability. The blades are made of durable steel that does not become dull over time. Conventional combs will have to be changed at least once a year. Therefore, it is better to spend a little money initially, but buy a reliable tool.

The Furminator helps make the combing process easier and faster:

• The device removes about 90% of dead hair in one session.

  It’s amazing how much dead undercoat the Furminator removes in one session

• You constantly need to remove the wool from the comb with your hands, but with a furminator you won’t have to do this.
• The Furminator is safer to use than a comb. It removes only dead undercoat without harming the main hairs. An ordinary powder brush can also catch living hairs.
• The sharp tips of the comb can scratch the animal, and in cheap options, the wire teeth can come off and remain in the cat's fur. This cannot happen with a furminator.
• The special structure of the teeth allows the Furminator to penetrate deep into the fur without causing any impact on the skin.

For my ordinary non-pedigreed cat, I used to use a simple slicker brush. The undercoat was combed out, but there was no less hair flying around the house. It got to the point that she combed the poor animal almost twice a day. Then a friend told me about the furminator, praising its effect. I hesitated to buy for a long time, but still bought it. She sighed calmly, in just a few times the fur practically disappeared. Nothing flew or accumulated in the corners, the carpet and clothes were clean. Combing now occurs 1-2 times a week.

Device selection

Many manufacturers produce various models of furminators, differing in the set of devices and functions they perform. But their main difference is what animal they are designed for.

For long-haired cats

The peculiarity of such wool and the difficulty of caring for it is that the undercoat is usually thin and soft and the hairs that come out form clumps. During the molting period, they fly around the rooms, get into the eyes and respiratory tract of household members, irritate, often cause allergies, and settle on furniture and clothing.

In this case, the guard hair gets tangled with the remaining undercoat and falls off, forming unsightly tangles. They are always difficult to remove; you often have to cut them, which affects the appearance of the cat.

Furminators for long hair easily cope with both of these problems, because:

• The teeth of the trimmer comb are long enough, they easily reach problem areas, allowing you to avoid damaging the skin and healthy hair.
• The teeth are located at a greater distance from each other, which also allows you to comb the animal without damaging the fur.
• There are special models that take into account the age and size of the cat. So, there is a special device for an adult cat and a small kitten of the Persian breed, which has the longest and thickest hair.
• All this data is indicated in the technical specifications for the device.

Models for long hair have the word Large in the name. They are available in two modifications. The first is intended for cats with hair up to 10 cm and weighing up to 10 kg. The second is designed for fur lengths over 12.5 cm.

For short-haired breeds

Such animals have a different problem when molting. The hairs are usually short and coarse. They quickly get stuck in clothes, on upholstery and blankets, and are quite difficult to remove.

For cats with short hair, furminators have the following functions:

• The teeth of the trimmer comb are shorter than for breeds with long hair.
• The comb has finer teeth designed for short fluff.
• There are special models for different types of wool - hard without undercoat (for example, Abyssinian) and densely padded (British and Scottish cats).
• Models have been created for animals of different ages and sizes.

Available in Small and X-Small versions. The first model is intended for cats weighing up to five kilograms and with a hair length of 4.5 centimeters. The second is for very small animals and kittens (hair -3.3 centimeters).

The Medium modification has a tooth length of 6.7 cm, the weight of the animal for which the device is designed is up to 10 kg.

When purchasing a furminator you should also consider:

• brand of the manufacturer;
• the quality of the material from which the device is made;
• price.

All modifications are carried out in the classic and deluxe categories, differing only in the design and material of the handles. In addition, the second option has a special ejector button that allows you to remove hairs from the comb not manually, but automatically.

Mr. Cat recommends: for whom the furminator is contraindicated

Furminator should not be used if there are scratches, wounds, irritations, or any skin diseases on the cat’s body.

There is no point in using this device for hairless cats:

• Canadian Sphynx;

• Don Sphynx;

• Peterbald;

• Ukrainian Levkoy;

• Elf;

• Dwelf;

• Bambino.

When caring for cats with very short hair that does not have undercoat and lies tightly to the body, you should also not use a furminator:

• Bengal;

• Toyger;

• Abyssinian;

• Burmanskaya;

• Laperm;

• Devon Rex;

• Singaporean;

• Oriental.

This procedure will not harm them. If you wish, you can purchase the device, but you need to use it half as often.