Dr Amanda Charles qualified as a vet from Liverpool University in 2002 and has been in small animal practice ever since. Amanda enjoys educating pet parents by giving them up-to-date and accurate information and loves the variety that being a vet brings.
Outside of work, Amanda has two very active young sons and an equally active Cocker Spaniel who keep her busy! She also has a Ragdoll cat with a big personality!
Amanda is a small animal veterinarian with over 20 years of experience and a special interest in skin conditions. She has a Postgraduate Certificate in Dermatology. Amanda works part-time in clinical practice primarily doing extended dermatology consultations, and also enjoys telemedicine alongside editing work.
Amanda graduated as a vet from the University of Liverpool in 2002 with a BVSc (Bachelor of Veterinary Science).
Grooming is a must for all cats, long-haired and short-haired alike, but do cats need to be professionally groomed? Not necessarily. You can groom your cat at home instead of splashing out on professional grooming, but there are some instances when it would be better to let a pro take over.
In this post, we’ll explore why grooming is so important and when a trip to a groomer is necessary. We’ll also share some tips on grooming your cat at home.
Why Grooming Is Essential
Though cats groom themselves, they still need us to offer a helping hand because there’s only so much self-maintenance a cat can do. If you have a medium or long-haired cat, they’ll need to be brushed every day to keep their coats free of knots, tangles, and mats.
Not brushing long-haired cats regularly enough can result in tight clumps that can become very uncomfortable for your cat and may need to be removed by a professional. Brushing is also beneficial for long-haired cats in that it prevents them from swallowing as much hair, therefore resulting in fewer hairballs.
Even short-haired cats need to be brushed, but not as frequently as longhaired cats. Brushing distributes the natural oils through the coat and clears out dirt, debris, and loose hair, which contributes to a healthier coat and skin. In addition, brushing gives you the opportunity to check for lumps, bumps, and injuries and is a great bonding experience for you and your cat.
All that said, grooming isn’t just about brushing: It also involves nail trimming, tooth brushing, ear checks, and occasionally bathing if recommended by a vet.
Image Credit: Stock-Asso, Shutterstock
Do Cats Need Baths?
For the majority of cats, bathing is unnecessary, but some do need regular baths, either for medical reasons or because they’re hairless. The skin of hairless cats gets greasy easily because they don’t have fur to distribute the oils produced by the skin. They need to be bathed about once every few weeks with a gentle, cat-friendly shampoo.
Another reason you may need to bathe your cat is if your vet has asked you to do so for medical reasons, such as a skin condition, or if they get something sticky, nasty or toxic on their coat.
If you suspect that your cat has a skin condition, please don’t head for the bath just yet—see a vet to get a proper diagnosis and advice on how to treat it.
Should I Take My Cat to a Professional Groomer?
If you’re taking care of all your cat’s grooming needs at home (brushing, nail clipping, tooth brushing, and ear checks) and it’s going well, there’s no need to take them to a professional groomer. However, if there’s something you’re not comfortable doing, like trimming your cat’s nails yourself, you may feel better involving a professional.
You should also contact a professional groomer or your veterinarian if your cat’s fur is seriously matted or clumped, and you can’t tackle the situation on your own without hurting them. Professional groomers are trained in dealing with all kinds of coats, breeds, and personalities. That said, if your cat is in pain or is showing signs of a skin condition, you’ll need to see a vet first.
Image Credit: Katerina Dalemans, Shutterstock
How to Groom Your Cat at Home: Top Tips
If you get into a good grooming routine at home, your cat may never have to visit a professional groomer. Here are some tips on how to approach grooming your cat in as stress-free a manner as possible.
1. Pick a Gentle Brush
It’s best to opt for a brush designed specifically for cats and that’s gentle enough to not cause discomfort. There are plenty of types to choose from, including bristle brushes, pin brushes, slicker brushes, and grooming mitts. Grooming mitts are worth trying out for cats who are nervous about brushing because it feels more like being petted.
You’ll also want to invest in a good deshedding tool if your cat is a heavy shedder, as this will help a great deal when shedding season arrives. A comb is also a good tool to have handy to work through more detailed areas.
2. Brush Longhaired & Curly Cats Daily
Long-haired and curly-haired cats need to be brushed daily as their coats can quickly become tangled and matted. By contrast, a weekly brush should do for a short-haired cat.
Image Credit: Sergey Fatin, Shutterstock
3. Let Your Cat Get Used to Grooming Tools
If your cat isn’t used to brushes, combs, and deshedding tools, it’s wise to give them time to thoroughly investigate these items before you start using them. This helps your cat feel more secure and in control, as cats are wary of new things.
Ideally, cats should be groomed from kittenhood so they don’t fear the experience as an adult, but you can certainly bring a reluctant adult cat around with a bit of time and patience. Put the brush near the cat and let them sniff and rub against it in their own time to let them get used to its smell, feel, and presence.
4. Go Slowly
Start brushing slowly and in small areas, like on the back or in the place where your cat most enjoys being petted. Do a few strokes, then take a break, then do a few more to let your cat get used to the sensation. Reward your cat quickly after you first start brushing to encourage them to feel positive about the experience.
The same goes for if you’re trimming your cat’s nails. Even if you just manage one nail at a time before your cat runs away, it’s fine—you can come back to it later or the next day. If it takes several days to get all the nails clipped, that’s okay.
Complete Set - These cat nail clippers include both a large and small pair, meaning it works well as...
Razor Sharp Stainless Steel - The most comfortable cat nail clippers for indoor cats provide a fast...
Safety First - With a safety nail guard and locking spring, you can make sure every grooming cut is...
Trimming your cat's nails at home can be hard, but having a professional do it can be expensive. With the help of great tools like Hepper's Cat Nail Clipper Set, you can easily and quickly trim your cat's nails at home. This set includes two pairs of stainless steel clippers with safety guards and locking mechanisms, plus a built-in nail file and a convenient pouch.
At Catster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!
5. Have Someone Assist
You may feel a bit more confident having someone there to hold your cat and talk to them in a soothing voice while you do what you have to do. This may be especially useful if you need to gently restrain your cat for nail clipping.
Image Credit: Serhii Ivashchuk, Shutterstock
6. Avoid the Quick
When you trim your cat’s nails, avoid cutting into the pink part of the nail. This is the quick, and it hurts and bleeds when you cut it. If you accidentally cut the quick, you can stop the bleeding with styptic powder.
7. Use Gentle Restraint if Necessary
If your cat struggles when they get their nails trimmed, you may need to do the burrito technique, which involves wrapping your cat in a blanket with their head and one paw sticking out. You can do this by placing the cat on a blanket and folding it upwards over and around them. Having an assistant hold your cat while you trim the nails could be extra helpful.
Final Thoughts
To recap, you can groom your cat at home to save money on grooming fees, but if something complex or potentially uncomfortable needs to be done (if your cat is very matted or you’re having trouble cutting their nails), it would be wise to see a professional groomer.
If you spot any signs of skin conditions, like dryness, redness, patchiness, flakiness, and so on when grooming your cat, consult your vet to find out what’s going on.
Kit Copson is a freelance writer and lifelong animal lover with a strong interest in animal welfare. She has parented various furry beings over the years and is currently a proud cat mom of two—one very chilled (unless hungry) Siamese and a skittish but adorable Domestic Shorthair—and dog mom of one—an adopted Bichon Poodle cross. When not writing about or spending time with animals, Kit can be found doodling in her sketchpad, reading, or more often than not, drinking tea.
Kittens are born helpless and blind—dependent on mom to get them through life. After the first several weeks, mom and onlookers alike will be shocked at how quickly they grow and become independent entities apart from their caretaker. If you...
Cats are quirky creatures, especially when it comes to eating. Some are super picky and seem to barely eat anything at mealtime. Others are ravenous and will eat just about anything, and they will not be shy about it. Whether...
Begonias are flowering plants that many homeowners grow in their flowerbeds and in large pots due to their colorful blooms. If you’re a cat owner who loves begonia plants, you should know that begonias are poisonous to cats if consumed....
While humans often see catnip as a “drug” for cats, it does not work in this way. Instead, catnip contains an oil that is similar to a pheromone that cats produce. This substance is called nepetalactone and can cause a...
Some cats have sensitive stomachs. Whether due to genetics or their gut microbiome, some kittens can’t handle the same foods that other cats can. The stomach upset that follows can be frustrating for you, but it can be quite painful...
Catnip is a perennial herb popular with felines for its stimulating, possibly hallucinogenic effects. Catnip is generally safe for healthy adult cats, but some veterinarians suggest that kitties with histories of seizures avoid it, as concerns have been raised regarding...
The Oriental Shorthair cat is known for its unique appearance. They have a triangular head, almond-shaped eyes, large and erect ears, elegant coats, and long, tubular bodies. As for temperament, these cats are loving, intelligent, and curious. They make terrific...
Cats are great at masking pain, which makes it more difficult for kitty parents to identify what’s an emergency and what’s not, particularly early on. Here are some signs in cats that call for emergency vet care, no matter the...
Stay informed with expert pet care insights delivered straight to your inbox! Discover professional guidance on animal behavior, feeding tips, trusted product picks, and much more.
You may opt-out at any time. View our Privacy Policy for more information.
Sign up for the Catster Email Newsletter
Stay informed with expert pet care insights delivered straight to your inbox! Discover professional guidance on animal behavior, feeding tips, trusted product picks, and much more.
You may opt-out at any time. View our Privacy Policy for more information.
Do Cats Need Professional Groomers? Vet-Reviewed Cleaning Facts & Tips
VET APPROVED
Reviewed & fact-checked by
Dr. Amanda Charles
BVSc GPCert (Derm) MRCVS (Veterinarian)
Dr Amanda Charles qualified as a vet from Liverpool University in 2002 and has been in small animal practice ever since. Amanda enjoys educating pet parents by giving them up-to-date and accurate information and loves the variety that being a vet brings. Outside of work, Amanda has two very active young sons and an equally active Cocker Spaniel who keep her busy! She also has a Ragdoll cat with a big personality! Amanda is a small animal veterinarian with over 20 years of experience and a special interest in skin conditions. She has a Postgraduate Certificate in Dermatology. Amanda works part-time in clinical practice primarily doing extended dermatology consultations, and also enjoys telemedicine alongside editing work. Amanda graduated as a vet from the University of Liverpool in 2002 with a BVSc (Bachelor of Veterinary Science).
View authorThe information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more about Catster’s Review Board
Share
In this article
Grooming is a must for all cats, long-haired and short-haired alike, but do cats need to be professionally groomed? Not necessarily. You can groom your cat at home instead of splashing out on professional grooming, but there are some instances when it would be better to let a pro take over.
In this post, we’ll explore why grooming is so important and when a trip to a groomer is necessary. We’ll also share some tips on grooming your cat at home.
Why Grooming Is Essential
Though cats groom themselves, they still need us to offer a helping hand because there’s only so much self-maintenance a cat can do. If you have a medium or long-haired cat, they’ll need to be brushed every day to keep their coats free of knots, tangles, and mats.
Not brushing long-haired cats regularly enough can result in tight clumps that can become very uncomfortable for your cat and may need to be removed by a professional. Brushing is also beneficial for long-haired cats in that it prevents them from swallowing as much hair, therefore resulting in fewer hairballs.
Even short-haired cats need to be brushed, but not as frequently as longhaired cats. Brushing distributes the natural oils through the coat and clears out dirt, debris, and loose hair, which contributes to a healthier coat and skin. In addition, brushing gives you the opportunity to check for lumps, bumps, and injuries and is a great bonding experience for you and your cat.
All that said, grooming isn’t just about brushing: It also involves nail trimming, tooth brushing, ear checks, and occasionally bathing if recommended by a vet.
Do Cats Need Baths?
For the majority of cats, bathing is unnecessary, but some do need regular baths, either for medical reasons or because they’re hairless. The skin of hairless cats gets greasy easily because they don’t have fur to distribute the oils produced by the skin. They need to be bathed about once every few weeks with a gentle, cat-friendly shampoo.
Another reason you may need to bathe your cat is if your vet has asked you to do so for medical reasons, such as a skin condition, or if they get something sticky, nasty or toxic on their coat.
If you suspect that your cat has a skin condition, please don’t head for the bath just yet—see a vet to get a proper diagnosis and advice on how to treat it.
Should I Take My Cat to a Professional Groomer?
If you’re taking care of all your cat’s grooming needs at home (brushing, nail clipping, tooth brushing, and ear checks) and it’s going well, there’s no need to take them to a professional groomer. However, if there’s something you’re not comfortable doing, like trimming your cat’s nails yourself, you may feel better involving a professional.
You should also contact a professional groomer or your veterinarian if your cat’s fur is seriously matted or clumped, and you can’t tackle the situation on your own without hurting them. Professional groomers are trained in dealing with all kinds of coats, breeds, and personalities. That said, if your cat is in pain or is showing signs of a skin condition, you’ll need to see a vet first.
How to Groom Your Cat at Home: Top Tips
If you get into a good grooming routine at home, your cat may never have to visit a professional groomer. Here are some tips on how to approach grooming your cat in as stress-free a manner as possible.
1. Pick a Gentle Brush
It’s best to opt for a brush designed specifically for cats and that’s gentle enough to not cause discomfort. There are plenty of types to choose from, including bristle brushes, pin brushes, slicker brushes, and grooming mitts. Grooming mitts are worth trying out for cats who are nervous about brushing because it feels more like being petted.
You’ll also want to invest in a good deshedding tool if your cat is a heavy shedder, as this will help a great deal when shedding season arrives. A comb is also a good tool to have handy to work through more detailed areas.
2. Brush Longhaired & Curly Cats Daily
Long-haired and curly-haired cats need to be brushed daily as their coats can quickly become tangled and matted. By contrast, a weekly brush should do for a short-haired cat.
3. Let Your Cat Get Used to Grooming Tools
If your cat isn’t used to brushes, combs, and deshedding tools, it’s wise to give them time to thoroughly investigate these items before you start using them. This helps your cat feel more secure and in control, as cats are wary of new things.
Ideally, cats should be groomed from kittenhood so they don’t fear the experience as an adult, but you can certainly bring a reluctant adult cat around with a bit of time and patience. Put the brush near the cat and let them sniff and rub against it in their own time to let them get used to its smell, feel, and presence.
4. Go Slowly
Start brushing slowly and in small areas, like on the back or in the place where your cat most enjoys being petted. Do a few strokes, then take a break, then do a few more to let your cat get used to the sensation. Reward your cat quickly after you first start brushing to encourage them to feel positive about the experience.
The same goes for if you’re trimming your cat’s nails. Even if you just manage one nail at a time before your cat runs away, it’s fine—you can come back to it later or the next day. If it takes several days to get all the nails clipped, that’s okay.
Trimming your cat's nails at home can be hard, but having a professional do it can be expensive. With the help of great tools like Hepper's Cat Nail Clipper Set, you can easily and quickly trim your cat's nails at home. This set includes two pairs of stainless steel clippers with safety guards and locking mechanisms, plus a built-in nail file and a convenient pouch.
At Catster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!5. Have Someone Assist
You may feel a bit more confident having someone there to hold your cat and talk to them in a soothing voice while you do what you have to do. This may be especially useful if you need to gently restrain your cat for nail clipping.
6. Avoid the Quick
When you trim your cat’s nails, avoid cutting into the pink part of the nail. This is the quick, and it hurts and bleeds when you cut it. If you accidentally cut the quick, you can stop the bleeding with styptic powder.
7. Use Gentle Restraint if Necessary
If your cat struggles when they get their nails trimmed, you may need to do the burrito technique, which involves wrapping your cat in a blanket with their head and one paw sticking out. You can do this by placing the cat on a blanket and folding it upwards over and around them. Having an assistant hold your cat while you trim the nails could be extra helpful.
Final Thoughts
To recap, you can groom your cat at home to save money on grooming fees, but if something complex or potentially uncomfortable needs to be done (if your cat is very matted or you’re having trouble cutting their nails), it would be wise to see a professional groomer.
If you spot any signs of skin conditions, like dryness, redness, patchiness, flakiness, and so on when grooming your cat, consult your vet to find out what’s going on.
See Also:
Featured Image Credit: artcasta, Shutterstock
Want content like this delivered to you?
Sign Up For Our Newsletter
News, insights, expert advice, and everything cat
* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.
How useful was this post?
Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)
Help us improve Catster for pet parents!
Your feedback really matters.
What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?
Authored by
Kit CopsonJoin the conversation
Catster's Digital Magazine is Back!
Vet-approved health & behavior advice
Real cat stories & community features
When a Cat Becomes a Water Fountain – Why Cats Vomit After Drinking
Seeing a cat drink water and then promptly bring it back up can be confusing. Sometimes the explanation is fairly simple, particularly if...
Chatting About Sleeping Positions, Loafing & Cats in Tubes | Chatty Cattys, Episode 33
In this episode of Catster’s Chatty Cattys podcast, Dr. Karyn and Nicole dive deep into the fascinating world of feline sleep behaviors. From...
The Bite Stuff: The Truth Behind a Cat’s Sudden Nip
A cat bite that seems to come out of nowhere is one of the more confusing things a cat owner deals with. Everything...
Your Cat’s Purr Proves They’re One of a Kind
There are few sounds more comforting to a cat parent than the familiar rumble of a purring cat. You probably know your own...
More related
How to Keep Ants Out of Cat Food (Quick & Simple Vet-Approved Tips)
Ants! Ugh! They can get into anything, and annoyingly, they seem to love your cat’s food. If you see one ant, there’s going...
Why Does My Cat Meow So Much? 6 Reasons (Vet Answer)
Cats can be the most loving, loyal, and fun companions. They can be less time-consuming than other pets and often fit more easily...
Can Cats Be Allergic to Litter? Vet-Approved Facts & Safety Guide
Humans aren’t the only ones unlucky enough to be affected by allergies. Cats can also be allergic to various items, like pollen, food,...
6 Best Scratching Posts for Maine Coon Cats in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks
Maine Coon cats are well-known for their playful personalities and large size. Maine Coons have muscular bodies, large paws, and can weigh more...
Keep reading
When Can Kittens Leave Their Mom? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ
Kittens are born helpless and blind—dependent on mom to get them through life. After the first several weeks, mom and onlookers alike will be shocked at how quickly they grow and become independent entities apart from their caretaker. If you...
10 Best Slow Feed Cat Bowls in 2026: Reviews & Top Picks
Cats are quirky creatures, especially when it comes to eating. Some are super picky and seem to barely eat anything at mealtime. Others are ravenous and will eat just about anything, and they will not be shy about it. Whether...
Are Begonias Poisonous to Cats? Vet-Verified Facts, Risks & Safety Guide
Begonias are flowering plants that many homeowners grow in their flowerbeds and in large pots due to their colorful blooms. If you’re a cat owner who loves begonia plants, you should know that begonias are poisonous to cats if consumed....
Does Catnip Calm Cats? Vet Approved Facts, How It Works & FAQ
While humans often see catnip as a “drug” for cats, it does not work in this way. Instead, catnip contains an oil that is similar to a pheromone that cats produce. This substance is called nepetalactone and can cause a...
8 Best Kitten Foods for Sensitive Stomachs in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks
Some cats have sensitive stomachs. Whether due to genetics or their gut microbiome, some kittens can’t handle the same foods that other cats can. The stomach upset that follows can be frustrating for you, but it can be quite painful...
Can Catnip Cause Seizures in Cats? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQs
Catnip is a perennial herb popular with felines for its stimulating, possibly hallucinogenic effects. Catnip is generally safe for healthy adult cats, but some veterinarians suggest that kitties with histories of seizures avoid it, as concerns have been raised regarding...
Oriental Shorthair Cat Health Problems: 12 Vet-Reviewed Issues
The Oriental Shorthair cat is known for its unique appearance. They have a triangular head, almond-shaped eyes, large and erect ears, elegant coats, and long, tubular bodies. As for temperament, these cats are loving, intelligent, and curious. They make terrific...
When to Call an Emergency Vet & How to Find One for Your Cat – Vet-Approved Advice & Guidance
Cats are great at masking pain, which makes it more difficult for kitty parents to identify what’s an emergency and what’s not, particularly early on. Here are some signs in cats that call for emergency vet care, no matter the...
Love Cats? So Do We! Join the Catster Community
Stay informed with expert pet care insights delivered straight to your inbox! Discover professional guidance on animal behavior, feeding tips, trusted product picks, and much more.
You may opt-out at any time. View our Privacy Policy for more information.