Neville’s hair is coarser these days than it was, and mats more easily. This, I suspect, is an effect of his diabetes left largely untreated due to insulin having no influence on his body any more. But his coat, at least, can be managed. Yesterday, he was shaved.
The groomer, experienced and skilled, trims Nev’s hair as a favour to our rescue-group, a favour for which I am thankful. But there was a problem with the shave this time. The clippers’ blades seemed to have been dulled by the very difficult job that had been completed previous to Neville’s. It was tough going with his thick and dense hair. The clippers were pulling at him, and though he usually becomes restive as the exercise continues, he started to lose his temper early on. This was no one’s fault, but we decided to suspend the hair-cut until other trimmers could be produced. This resulted in a half-shave that looked a bit silly on my boy. (In fact, when Neville first came to me, his initial veterinary visit resulted in a similar shave, though that one was done for inexplicable reasons.)
But a new tool was acquired that afternoon, loaned by another group member, and the groomer was generous enough to come over and complete the job. This one proceeded more rapidly, and more smoothly. Neville still didn’t care for the attention, but accepted it better, though I think he was put out because he thought he had finished his odious chore earlier. Even so, it was quickly done, and done very well, too. For that I am indebted to the groomer.
Though not slender (did I once call him the Thin Man?), Neville seemed quite a bit smaller than he was the day previously. As I predicted he would, he took to his bed; it was a very pleasant, perfectly warm spring day Saturday, but the air must have felt cool on his nearly naked body. The days are going to get warmer, however, and Neville’s thick coat would have been a disservice. As well, the knots and mats, found especially on his belly, must have been an irritant. And if he is feeling a chill right now, that is more a matter of acclimitisation (almost literally) than a lasting effect. I will keep the windows closed at night for a week or so, and Neville will curl up on blankets and in cat-beds.
I think he feels relief and, once he is used to his new leanness, he may even feel gratitude. Maybe.
I didn't realise how long his fur had grown until I saw him half shaved. I am sure he feels much more comfortable now.
ReplyDeleteNeville looks silky smooth after all his ordeal. Short fur may indeed be pleasant with warm weather finally arriving.
ReplyDeleteAhh...Nev, you'll always be a beautiful cat, haircut notwithstanding.
ReplyDeleteHe looks sleek and content in the final pics. And oh so soft to touch, I'm sure. I can imagine how much better he'll feel without all that fur!
ReplyDeleteI bet he is so happy to fur-less! What a transformation.
ReplyDeleteI have to say that is quite an amazing possitive change. I bet he'll love it when the heat rises. Till then there's always a blanket and cosy bed to enjoy and extra treats because he needs to keep up his energy.
ReplyDeleteERin
That probably does feel much better now sweet Neville.
ReplyDeleteOh Neville, my darling handsome sweet boy. No more pulling on your poor boy from mats...your Dad had to have that done. It will be alright. Smoochies, dear Neville.
ReplyDeletePoor Mr Neville.
ReplyDeleteHe's a lovely 'little' fella...love him to bits..! :O).
ReplyDeleteDid Neville's undercarriage also get shaved?
ReplyDeleteIt did. His belly and chest are smooth, too, and free of mats.
DeleteSuch indignities, Nevsky! And TWICE!
ReplyDeleteYou and Da Boyz had some rough times; here's hoping they are all in the past now.
I didn't realize Nev's fur was so long! Kudos to that groomer, she had quite a job on her hands. It must be a great relief for him to shed that heavy coat.
ReplyDeleteWhat a handsome boy, with or without his fur.
ReplyDelete