A cat groomer speaks
Updated: Aug 24, 2020
byDawn Falzone, CFMG
About a week ago, I was finally able to get my haircut after the quarantine. I have never been so excited about getting my locks cut…but truth is, not only was I better groomed, but more comfortable.
Animals are no different. Certain dog breeds get groomed every 4-6 weeks, but not many people think about cats when it comes to grooming. But certain feline breeds do benefit from a nice groom. Whether it be because of the breed, its age, or its weight, cats also can enjoy the comfort of being clean.
So how would you know if your cat needs grooming? First let us start with the breeds that have long hair. Ragdolls, Persians, Himalayans, and of course…Maine Coons!! We also find some kitties who lick themselves excessively, causing them to vomit hair balls on a regular basis. Or maybe it is a senior citizen who has stopped grooming themselves. Another common case are animals with furry rear ends that are collecting deposits from the litter box. All of these cases make them an excellent candidate for grooming.
Other common “grooming-needed” issues are dry skin, oily skin and dandruff. Just like humans, cats can have skin conditions that lead to discomfort. Regular treatment for poor skin or hair can keep these issues at bay and lead to our four legged companions being happier and healthier.
The last topic we see on a regular basis is more about human health, both physical and mental. NAILS!! Anyone who is ever had an animal knows that nails can be a weapon. They can pierce our skin, and destroy our furniture. Keeping a cats’ nails clipped help keep us safe. And if you want to combat your furniture taking the brunt of the damage, consider adding soft paws to your cats’ nails. Soft paws nail caps from the conveniently named Company, Soft Paws, and come in many different colors from translucent to the hysterical glow in the dark version. They go on with glue and stay on for a few months as long as they stay dry. They allow your kitty to scratch until their heart is content without sacrificing your couch.
Services for all the above can range from $10-$100 depending on a few variables including temperament, coat, and age. It’s best to find a groomer who has experience with cats since their skin is very delicate and most felines don’t care for the process.
Good luck with your search and enjoy your cat’s new haircut.
Dawn Falzone is a Certified Feline Master Groomer with 12 years’ experience. She grooms cats on Kitty Mondays, dogs the rest of the work week at The Refined Pup Pet Boutique in Horse Shoe.