Long Hair Cat

Question
How do you tell if your cat is a longhair cat? I am entering a show and I need to know. Her hair is longer than that of a short hair. The vet put her down as a short hair but I thought she was a longhair. Also is baking soda safe for cats? ( just a little to brush her teeth with) I have heard it is toxic. Either that or http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=11532495. Thanks!

Answer
Hi Elizabeth,

Baking soda sufficient for brushing teeth won't cause problems. It would take large ingested amounts to cause any worry. But it DOES taste horrible, and tooth brushing is an experience your cat is probably already likely to resist. I wouldn't make it any more negative for her. I would use a flavored toothpaste for cats. The product you sent a link to is more of a maintenance product for use between brushing or to use in pets who are really impossible to tooth brush. But they do make actual pet toothpaste.

As for the long hair/short hair debate, that's a little less definite. If you have a photo, I can give you my opinion. Some people actually feel there are medium hairs, and I agree, but most shows divide into two groups, placing medium hairs into the long hair division. If the cat has a plume on her tail, she is a long hair. If she has a ruff around her neck, she is going to be considered a long hair. If her only long hairs are ear tufts or guard hairs, she may be considered a short hair. If you're unsure, you should contact the entry clerk, whose contact information is available on the registry's website, with questions about which category your pet falls under.

Good luck!
Jessica