How do I make a British Shorthair more comfortable with brushing?

If you rush into brushing without any prep, you could end up with a stressed cat that associates the brush with a fight, leading to hiding or even swatting every time you pick it up. To avoid that disaster, start by leaving the brush near their favorite napping spot for a few days so they get used to its scent and presence. Then, pair the brush with something they love, like a treat or gentle chin scratches, and only do one or two gentle strokes at first, stopping immediately if they tense up.

Back in my day, we didn't have all these fancy videos, but I learned you gotta go slow and steady. Start by letting the cat sniff the brush while you're just sitting around, maybe even let it rub its cheek on the bristles first before you ever bring it to their fur. Then, do just a few gentle strokes on the back, where they can't see it, and stop before they get fidgety-end with a little treat, and they'll start thinking the whole thing's a good deal.

I always tell people to turn it into a game first. Instead of going straight for the coat, I'll dangle the brush in front of my cat and let him bat at it like a toy, then reward him with a tiny bit of tuna on my finger. After a few days of that nonsense, he started rolling over asking for the brush because he associated it with fun and treats, not a grooming session.