Should you shave a long haired cat?

It is ok to give your long-haired dog or cat a “summer cut”—trimming their long hair may make it more manageable. However, it is best to allow a professional groomer to perform the haircutting, and never shave down to the skin or try to cut the hair yourself with scissors.

Is it a bad idea to shave your cat?

Shaving is dangerous because the cat's skin is so thin from age and/or health issues. The risk of nicking or cutting the cat is very high. Shaving the pelt off requires using a clipper blade very close to the cat's skin, and sometimes the ability to see what is underneath is inhibited by the pelt.