Terry Suchernick is a professional cat groomer with the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City and the Northland Animal Wellness Society. She has over three decades of experience grooming cats.

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Is cat grooming necessary? Why?

While cats are usually self-sufficient and often groom themselves, cat grooming is necessary because it helps get rid of matted hair on long-hair cats and it helps avoid overgrown nails.

Describe a typical day on the job.

“With cat grooming, there is no ‘typical’ day on the job,” Terry said. Every day comes with new sets of challenges. Some cats love to be groomed and are very cooperative when being handled. Other cats can scare easily which can make it more difficult.

How do you modify your routine to accommodate a flustered feline?

Terry said that when dealing with flustered cats, it is important that the groomer slows down the process and is patient with the cat. The groomer must be very attuned to the cat's state of mind to provide the proper care without causing injury to the cat or the groomer.

Are there ways to restrain a cat to make it easier to groom?

While there are humane ways to restrain a cat, the available methods of restraint often restrict what groomers can do. For example, there are cat bags where a groomer can place the body of the cat in the bag and zip it closed. This method restricts much of the movement of the cat. It keeps claws in a safe place. It also helps the cat feel more secure. Unfortunately, if the body of the cat requires grooming (that is, clipping or trimming), the bag becomes more of an obstacle than an aid.

Likewise, there are cat masks, which cover the eyes and wrap around the back of the cat’s head. By blinding a cat, they are less likely to panic; however, if any grooming must take place on the head, the mask is in the way.

Terry said the usual form of restraint if there is any, is to use a towel.

What has surprised you about being a cat groomer?

Terry said one of the most surprising things about being a cat groomer is developing friendships with the owners. Often, people in animal care are in that field because they enjoy working with animals more than working with people. But in working with animals, the byproduct is working with people. And if you take care of someone’s animal in a way that pleases them, it is very natural to form a bond with the pet owners.

What is Paws for the Cause?

Paws for the Cause is an assistance program for pet owners who are unable to pay for veterinary care. It helps provide financial resources for veterinary emergencies. Learn More

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On average, how much does cat grooming cost?

While prices may vary by location, cat grooming is very affordable. Terry’s rates range from $35 to $50.

How often does cat grooming need to be done?

It depends upon the breed of the cat, but on average, once every three months is recommended; while some cats may need grooming more frequently than that. Some cats may not need any grooming.

The breeds that require grooming include:

• Persians
• Maine Coons
• Norwegian Forest Cats
• Long-haired cats
• Dense-coated short-hair cats with thick undercoats

Benefits of regular cat grooming include:

• Groomers can alert owners to changes in skin and coat
• Groomers can alert owners to bad breath
• Groomers can point out lumps and bumps that may need to be checked by a vet
• Well-groomed cats are usually happier and healthier cats

Cat grooming includes:

• Nail trimmings
• Ear cleanings
• Mouth examinations
• Tear duct cleanings
• Sanitary clipping
• Brushing
• Dematting
• Haircuts

Are there different ways to style a cat’s fur?

There are different ways to style a cat. The most popular style is the lion clip but there are also other styles like the fox clip and dinosaur clip.

How difficult is it to find a cat groomer today?

Cat grooming is in high demand. You can find cat groomers in your local yellow pages, Google, or by checking the Professional Cat Groomers Association of America.

What advice do you have for cat owners to help manage their cats at home?

Terry recommends regular brushing with a slicker brush and a greyhound comb. The most important consideration is to be patient and take your time. The earlier you introduce grooming to your cat, the more acclimated they will be to the process.

Cats love to be groomed. They don’t like being wet but they love to be groomed because grooming is a bonding experience for them.

How is cat grooming different from dog grooming and how is it the same?

Cat grooming is the same as dog grooming in that the groomer is looking for the same problems (skin and coat conditions) on both animals. The goal of both dog and cat grooming is to make the animals look good and to improve their health and well-being.

They are different in that dogs are driven to please humans while cats are more interested in pleasing themselves. Because cats can scare much easier than dogs, it is very important to be patient and to take a little more time in the process.

Connect with Terry on Facebook

Visit her website for more information

Email her at [email protected]