Frequently Asked Questions – Professional Cat Grooming
What are your opening hours?
Our opening hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 6:00pm. Weekends and later evening appointments may be available upon request, but we are generally closed at weekends and after 6pm.
How should I bring my cat to the salon?
We require all cats to be brought in a secure carrier or carry crate. Please ensure each cat has its own crate, as cats may behave differently towards one another after grooming due to changes in appearance and scent.
If cats groom themselves, why do they need professional cat grooming?
Although cats are known for grooming themselves, this does not replace the need for professional cat grooming. Certain aspects of grooming can only be done safely and effectively by a trained cat groomer using professional equipment.
Professional cat grooming services help with:
Cat nail trimming: Cats cannot trim their own nails, which can become overgrown or ingrown.
Mat and flea removal: Mats, tangles, and parasites require safe professional removal.
Cat ear and face cleaning: Wax buildup and tear staining need regular attention.
Sanitary grooming: Professional groomers remove soiled fur safely and hygienically.
Dandruff control: Cat grooming improves skin health and reduces flaking.
Shedding reduction: Cat baths and blow-dries remove excess hair.
Hairball prevention: Less loose fur means fewer hairballs and digestive issues.
Allergy reduction: Regular cat baths help reduce allergens in the home.
Early health detection: Certified cat groomers often notice skin and coat concerns early.
Professional grooming supports your cat’s health, comfort, and overall wellbeing.
Is professional cat grooming worth it?
Yes. Professional cat grooming services provide important health benefits beyond appearance.
Benefits of cat grooming include:
Preventing hairballs and digestive discomfort
Keeping your cat clean, fresh, and comfortable
Reducing allergens that affect allergy sufferers
Supporting flea and parasite control
Minimizing cat hair shedding in your home
Preventing painful matting and pelting
Maintaining healthy nails, ears, eyes, and skin
Promoting a clean, shiny, low-maintenance coat
A professionally groomed cat is often a healthier, happier cat.
How much does professional cat grooming cost?
The cost of cat grooming depends on your cat’s coat condition, temperament, and grooming needs.
Base pricing is available on our Services page, with final pricing provided after an in-person assessment.
Do short-haired cats need professional grooming?
Yes. Short-haired cats still benefit from professional grooming and are often significant shedders.
Regular grooming helps remove dead hair and excess oils, improving coat condition and reducing shedding around the home. Professional cat bathing and blow-drying also support healthier skin and a cleaner, more comfortable coat.
Even short-haired cats can develop issues such as dandruff, grease build-up, or excessive shedding, all of which can be managed effectively with routine professional grooming.
How often should a cat be professionally groomed?
Most cats benefit from professional grooming every 4–8 weeks, although some may only need an appointment every 8–12 weeks.
The ideal grooming frequency depends on factors such as age, health conditions, coat type and length, coat colour, breed, and lifestyle. After assessing your cat, we will recommend a tailored grooming schedule to help keep their coat healthy, comfortable, and free from mats.
Is professional grooming stressful for cats?
When carried out correctly, professional cat grooming is generally low-stress and can be a positive experience for most cats.
Regular grooming appointments help cats become familiar with the process over time, which often reduces anxiety.
Routine grooming also prevents painful matting and supports overall comfort, hygiene, and wellbeing, helping your cat feel more relaxed and comfortable in the long term.
What are mats and pelts in cats?
Cats naturally produce oils, and as they shed, loose hair can become trapped in the coat. Without regular grooming, this can form tangles that tighten into mats. Over time, multiple mats can merge and spread across the body, creating larger areas of compacted fur known as pelts.
Matting and pelting can be uncomfortable or painful for cats and may lead to skin irritation, infections, or restricted movement in severe cases. In some situations, the coat may need to be clipped or shaved, occasionally with veterinary support.
Regular professional grooming is the most effective way to prevent matting and keep your cat’s coat healthy and comfortable.
How long does it take for cat hair to grow back after shaving?
Cat fur typically begins to regrow within 2–3 months, although full regrowth can take up to 18 months depending on the cat.
Regrowth time varies based on coat type, the stage of the natural hair growth cycle, seasonal changes, and your cat’s overall health and condition.
Do you sedate cats for grooming?
No. We never sedate cats for grooming.
All grooming is carried out without sedation to ensure the safety and wellbeing of every cat. If a cat cannot be safely groomed without sedation, we will recommend that the procedure is carried out under veterinary supervision.
How long will it take for you to groom my cat?
We typically allow around 2 hours per appointment to ensure each cat is given plenty of time and care throughout their groom. This also allows for breaks during the session if needed, helping to keep your cat as calm and comfortable as possible.
Grooming times can vary depending on each individual cat’s needs, temperament, and coat condition, so some appointments may take slightly less or more time.
What are Soft Paws Nail Caps?
Soft Paws are safe, humane vinyl nail caps that are designed to be fitted over your cat’s existing nails. They are shaped like a cat’s claw but are hollow, allowing the nail to function normally.
They do not prevent normal movement or extension of the claws, and most cats tolerate them well when applied correctly.
Do cats like getting a bath?
Contrary to popular belief, most cats do not mind being bathed. With the right approach, many cats remain calm throughout the process and can become more comfortable over time.
At Purr-fectly Pampered, we use gentle, cat-specific techniques to gradually introduce each cat to bathing, helping them feel safe and relaxed during their grooming experience.
Do cats really need baths?
Yes. Professional cat baths are an important part of coat and skin care.
While cats are naturally good at preening themselves, they do not always remove all dirt, excess oils, dandruff, or allergens from their coat. Professional bathing helps keep the skin and coat clean, healthy, and in good condition.
Although some cats may be hesitant at first, many adapt well when bathing is introduced gently and carried out by a trained groomer using appropriate techniques.
Do you offer a service without a bath?
Generally, no — all cats are bathed as part of our grooming process.
However, if you are only looking for a sanitary trim, belly shave or nails, we will be happy to assist without a full grooming package.
Can you do a dry bath instead?
Dry bathing products are not a suitable replacement for a professional cat bath. They do not effectively remove built-up oils, dirt, dandruff, or parasites from the coat and skin.
While they may offer a temporary freshening effect, they do not provide a deep or thorough clean. Professional bathing is still the most effective way to maintain proper coat and skin hygiene.
Many owners are surprised to find their cats are noticeably calmer and more comfortable after their grooming session.