5 Signs Your Cat Could Use a Professional Groom

Cats are famously good at grooming themselves, which is part of why professional cat grooming isn't as widely offered as dog grooming — plenty of groomers simply don't take cats. But there are real situations where a cat benefits from professional help.

Signs It Might Be Time

• Matting, especially around the belly, armpits, or behind the ears — mats can pull painfully on the skin and are hard to remove safely at home.
• A long-haired cat shedding heavily or developing a greasy, unkempt coat, which can happen as cats age and become less flexible.
• Overgrown nails that are starting to curl or catch on carpet and furniture.
• A cat that's stressed by bath time at home, where a calmer, more practiced approach can help.
• Senior cats who are grooming themselves less due to arthritis or reduced mobility.

None of these are emergencies, but left unaddressed, matting in particular can become uncomfortable enough that it needs to be shaved out rather than brushed out. Catching it early makes for a much easier visit.

Because not every groomer works with cats, it's worth calling ahead to confirm cat grooming is offered before you show up.