Where Does The Groom Take Place? What Do You Need?

In order to perform the groom I need access to an electrical outlet, flat surface, and a sink large enough to accommodate the size of the cat. I do not bathe cats in bathtubs as the space between the spout and side of the tub is inadequate for thorough washing and safety. The amount of handling required to maneuver the cat under the water can quickly agitate the cat, taking away constructive usable time towards grooming.

My preferred method is to utilize a kitchen counter or laundry room for the initial assessment. I will shave as needed/requested, then bathe them in that sink. Once bathing is complete I then return them to the bathroom for drying and the rest of services. This helps eliminate mess as well as keeps the cat comfortable and contained.

Modifications can be made per client request. For example, I have many individuals who prefer me to groom their cat on the kitchen island so they can observe and chat with me while I work. If cats and sink ratios are compatible, I can also wash them in the bathroom as well. It is very much on a per-client basis and their preferences. Please keep in mind even if requested, the safety and comfort of your cat will take precedence over preference.

Cats are more successful in a limited environment where they’re not focused on various means of escape. I do not require much space, and I frequently find that siting on the floor with them in my lap or on the ground to be the most comfortable for everyone involved. Some of my cats are exceptionally anxious and I will absolutely go to where the cat is more comfortable in the house. Please know if you are feeling anxious as well, you’re more than welcome to be present with me.

What Can I Do To Prepare For The Appointment?

1. Be Honest. The best thing you can do to prep for our appointment is be completely honest. Falsifying medical history, health complications, behavioral issues, or temperament concerns only puts the cat and I at risk. Most things can be modified or overcome, but before I can assess and service I do need full transparency.

2. Cats must be contained at the time of service. This means either in a bathroom, carrier, bedroom, or in-hand. I do not chase cats upon arrival. If the cat is not caught within 15 minutes of the groom, a late fee will be charged. If a cat is not caught within 25 minutes it will be considered a No Show and full cost of services will still be owed.

3. Two Adult Sized Bath Towels are required for the grooming. This is for both holds as well as wrapping after the bath.

Do You Require Vaccinations?

As a holistic groomer who is changing the narrative on feline health, handling, and hygiene, I am more lenient with clients as I get to know them and support them in proper care for their cat. Due to the fact that I come within the home and the risk of cross-contamination is virtually eliminated, I am able to be more flexible with vaccination records. I do however, require full transparency from owners.

Not being up to date with vaccinations will not immediately disqualify cats from being serviced, but it may affect the level of services they are able to receive. For example, a cat who has not been assessed by the vet and is beginning to show signs of stress may be treated more cautiously then a cat who has just gotten a full annual health clearance by a veterinarian.

Please note it is in your best interest as well as your cat to receive annual check ups to ensure the optimal health and safety of your pet. Upon assessment, I will know immediately if it is a groom I feel comfortable performing or not. If I am unable to initiate the groom due to safety or health, I will notify you immediately and only an assessment and travel fee will be charged.

Can I Be There During The Groom?

Yes! In my experience, cat-parents being present can actually help alleviate anxiety or stress. I do request that if cats are particularly anxious or in matted condition that an owner be present or at least available as I may need their quick assistance or attention.

What Does Estimated Time Of Arrival Mean?

Each appointment is set with an estimated time of arrival. Due to the nature of home based services and working with live animals, this is not an exact time and there is a two hour window of arrival before/after the appointment.

You are expected to be home and readily available within the appointment time frame, which is two hours before and two hours after an estimated ETA. Failure to be at your home upon the arrival window may result in late or No Show fees. I understand that this may be inconvenient for individuals who work out of the home or have appointments which is why I’m fully transparent and honest about the time commitment required for mobile grooming services. Unfortunately it is the realities of what it means to travel to clients and work with live and frequently unpredictable animals. Should you have conflicts with time and availability, a salon with set drop off times may be better for your needs.

However—no worries! I am a thorough communicator and am usually able to finalize the schedule a few days to the night before as long as there are no last minute cancellations or no shows. I will be sure to let you know as the day progresses as well if there is any change to my estimated time of arrival.

I only take a certain amount of clients a day so that I have the opportunity to take my time and allow each cat their own time. Each client receives my undivided time and in the moment attention. For this reason, I usually run earlier rather than later.

Once the previous groom is finished, I will notify you of an exact arrival time.

As of June 26th, 2024, due to high inquiries and long waitlists individuals who cancel after scheduling will not receive rescheduling priority. In addition, multiple reschedules may result in having to pre-pay for an appointment or removal from the client list entirely.

How Long Are Appointments

Appointment times vary depending on services. Nail trims and Pedicures usually take anywhere between 5 and 15 minutes. Full standard grooms for regularly maintenance cats usually take 30-60 minutes. Lion cuts without matting usually take about 30-60 minutes depending on the cat’s conformation and condition. Matting and pelting usually requires much more time.

Please note that the duration of your appointment is completely dependent on your cat. I come ready and able to provide all services, but it is up to them how much they are able to tolerate.

How Do You Keep Cats Safe?

I am a holistic groomer. This means I prioritize your cat’s mental health as much as I prioritize their physical health.

If your cat begins to show signs of stress, I will pause, observe, and then continue with the appropriate modifications if able.

On rare occasions, the groom may need to be postponed or broken up into two appointments. This is particularly common if cats are geriatric, pelted, severely obese, or aggressive. In these extreme cases usually one appointment is made to take care of main points of concerns such as mat removal and then a follow up appointment is made for bathing.

Cat’s have what I like to call a “turkey timer”, which means when they’re done, they’re done.

Signs of stress can include:

• Frequent urination
• Frequent defamation
• Irregular Breathing
• Irregular Movements
• Panting

Clients are more than welcome to be present to witness all of these signs and if I have any concerns I will immediately ask you to come so you may witness them as well.

It is important to emphasize that full cost of services are owed even if your cat is unable to finish the groom. I do not offer “make up” appointments.

Your cat’s health and safety is my first and foremost priority. In some situations modifications may be necessary such as towel drying rather than blow drying, or breaking up grooming goals into separate appointments. If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to reach out to me!

My goal of each groom is to complete the services before their turkey timer goes off. When cats know that you respect their autonomy and are listening to their bodies, they will be much more likely to let you work on them next time.

How Do You Know If My Cat Is Stressed?

Believe me, you’ll know. Signs of stress include:

• Frequent urination
• Frequent defamation
• Irregular Breathing
• Irregular Movements
• Panting

Behavioral cues that they are done will also be extremely evident. “Popcorning” and sudden/acute aggression will be immediate signs their “turkey timer” has gone off.

Will My Cat Like Being Groomed?

Believe it or not, most of the cats I groom love water..or at least tolerate it. What the majority of them seem to hate is either the brushing or the blow drying. Some cats have never been groomed before then just like brushing a tangled toddler’s hair, there can be some protest. However, with regular maintenance and grooming they do learn to enjoy it.

Even if they’re not the biggest fans during the groom, I’ve yet to come across a cat who is not immensely comfortable and happy afterwards. My clients frequently report a sudden positive change in their temperament and overall mood afterwards.

If you have anxiety about your cat’s temperament and anxiety, please reach out to your veterinarian about acquiring some Gabapentin, which can help take the edge off. If you do not have a history of anxiety or needing this medicine, I do prefer to assess cats without the medication, at least the first time.

I do not groom cats on Acepromazine, Trazadone, Valium, or any other medication aside from Gabapentin.

What Happens If My Cat Can’t Handle The Full Groom?

Your cat will let us know if we need to throw in the towel and call it quits. But most of the time cats need a moment to feel their feelings before continuing. At all times I am assessing and modifying things as needed so their experience is specifically tailored to their temperament and needs.

What Is The Order Of Events During The Groom?

Upon arrival I assess the cat for temperament and condition. My first task is to cut the nails and then begin treating problem areas such as excess dead hair or matting. After an initial brush through, I then immediately wash the cat. After their bath, facial, and calming massage, I then dry the cat. I then clean their ears and eyes.