Schenk CFMG
CAT
GROOMER OF THE MONTH
Giselle Bahena
Joslyn Williams
TheFurryPhoenician
COVER
PATRICIA GAMMON LAWSON SALON
CRITTER WASH, VIRGINIA
EDITOR
MERCEDES SCHENK
ISSUE SPONSOR
ALL THINGS PAW
phoenician the furry
GET INVOLVED
Interested in becoming a guest speaker or volunteer in the clinic or classroom? Have extra supplies you’re looking to donate? Please reach out to:
MALISSA CONTI-DIENER MHG
MConti- Diener@evit edu
Pet Grooming Instructor
East Valley Institute of Technology
Power Campus Mesa AZ
IS IT
CHEATING CHEATING IS IT
In the grooming world, few things sting quite like finding out a long-term client went somewhere else Maybe they don’t rebook, maybe you see their pet on someone else’s Instagram--or maybe they come back after a long period like nothing happened
And there it is, that sinking feeling The deep belly anxiety that has your mind spiraling into a hundred different questions and emotions Was it something I did? Were they unhappy? Do they like the new groomer more than me? Are they better than me? What are they saying about me?
The concept of client loyalty (and loss) is something that every groomer has faced, and taking a moment to reflect with honesty and empathy will help reframe that anxiety and frustration
WHY CLIENTS LEAVE
In a recent pet grooming forum, a groomer had come forward asking business advice about how to deal with cheating clients They had communicated that this individual went somewhere else but then had decided to come back to them, the original groomer They asked, “how do you deal with a cheating client?”
Telling someone it’s not personal is about as comforting as telling someone to just calm down. The fact of the matter, is that it is actually deeply personal As small business owners, the retention of clients can be a direct reflection of our skill, business management, and prices As much as grooming is a service that we are providing, it is also a form of art We are providing a hygienic function as well as a visual aesthetic for our clientele If someone doesn’t like it, it’s only natural that we may experience hurt feelings, resentment, and even can become defensive if we think ourselves it is a great job
Over the years, regular clients are what keep our businesses sustainable The concept of client loyalty from an owner perspective is bred from anxieties regarding our financial stability and therefore our livelihood From a client perspective, their loyalty is bred from trust in that they know
what services will be rendered for what price and what result Of course, there’s more intricacies that can follow through within a long term working relationship, but specifically we’re analyzing today exactly what makes a client leave, even temporarily Because even though client loss affects us personally, it’s not in fact personal
Thanks to social media such as Instagram and Tik Tok, even following your current groomer can encourage search engine optimizations and algorithms to show you other groomers As a consumer, this is an incredible feature As a business owner, it can feel a little disheartening which is why some search engine organizations offer purchasable features that will put your business at the top of the list or remove suggested recommendations. That’s not even taking into consideration groomers who purchase advertising through these website It’s important to keep in mind that these purchasable optimization features are how Search Engine companies make money, and another company paying for advertising isn’t something they’re trying to do to you
Many individuals in the grooming industry report feeling somewhat territorial of their area After all, this is a service based industry and more options might feel like less money coming in The fact of the matter, is that there are thousands if not millions of pets in our community and there’s just not enough groomers to go around.
It's normal to feel hurt when clients leave, especially when you pour your heart into your work But it’s also important to remind yourself that you are running a business, and so are they The only real etiquette in place when you’re a groomer who has a new client from another groomer is to not talk poorly about the previous groomer In turn, it can feel really shocking if they come to you once and then promptly return to the previous groomer It can feel like cheating, a huge blow to the ego, and low key mess with your mind
With great emotional effort and humility, we must try to not see it as betrayal but instead use it as an opportunity for self reflection:
Were they the right clients for my grooming style?
Could expectations or communication have been clearer?
Are there ways I can strengthen my client experience?
Am I priced correctly for the services I’m rendering?
Did I do a good job?
When all of our boxes are checked “Yes” and we offer nothing but Gold Star Status, it can sink us even further into that Big Ick Feel So let’s talk about why clients leave
CURIOSITY
As mentioned previously, social media makes it easy to see “what else is out there” A trendy cut, a viral video, or a beautifully edited photo can pique someone’s curiosity Most groomers have a specialty breed or style that they’re known for, and a client may try another groomer just to see if it’s a better fit or to experience something new This does not necessarily mean that they are dissatisfied with your services, sometimes, it’s the groomer equivalent of trying a new restaurant Maybe they say a unique style like Asian Fusion, creative coloring, or a specialty spa treatment that intrigued them Or maybe the groomer has a big social media presence
that made the experience look exciting or luxurious
Curiosity can also be driven by changes in their pet’s needs If their dog is aging, developing skin issues, or becoming anxious, the client may want to explore different grooming techniques, environments or even personalities to see what works best They may circle back to you once they realize what they had was already working
Rather than seeing curiosity as a threat, it can be helpful to view it as a part of the modern client journey People have access to more information and inspiration than ever before, and sometimes that leads them to experiment If they leave, stay in touch with kindness and professionalism Many will return once they realize the relationship, trust, and quality you provide is hard to replace
Let’s face it Times are tough Between inflation, tariffs, rising rent, groceries, and vet bills, pet parents are feeling the squeeze We know that grooming is a vital part of a pet’s health and wellbeing but to many clients, it’s a recurring cost that they may start to rethink when budgets get tight It’s not uncommon for someone to shop around for lower rates, even if they’ve been satisfied with the care and results they have received
From a client’s perspective, they’re just trying to “save a little here and there”, not fully realizing the difference in training, product quality, safety protocols, or grooming techniques that separate a budget groomer from a seasoned professional Because grooming is often under-valued in the broader pet care industry, many don’t understand the behind-the-scenes education and effort that justifies your pricing The continuing education, the premium tools, to the insurance, W-2 Employee
THEIR DECISION TO PAUSE OR GO ELSEWHERE IS MORE ABOUT THEIR CIRCUMSTANCES THAN YOUR WORTH.
pay, or the physical toll of the job.
It is worth remembering that pricing decisions aren’t always about cutting corners Clients can go through temporary financial hardships or major life changes--job loss, medical bills, new babies, or unexpected expenses Their decision to pause or go elsewhere is more about their circumstances than your worth That being said, it’s okay to feel disappointed or hurt-especially if you’ve built a relationship with that client and their pet
Your rates reflect your value, experience, and the quality of care you provide. You’re not here to compete for bargain grooming! You’re here to offer expertise, safety, and compassionate care The clients who return, often retur with a greater appreciation for what they had
Perhaps their dog was overdue, their cat was too matted to put it off another month and a half, or the days you have available they’re not These situations aren’t about dissatisfaction, they’re about timing
Believe it or not, the simple power of personal referral can urge a regular client to get a little bit curious Especially if they have an easy going pet with a standard service A trusted friend, coworker, or neighbor might rave about their groomer and curiosity kicks in They might try a recommended salon just once to see what the buzz was all about These clients often come back Why? Because the bond you’ve built, the way you know their pet’s quirks, sensitivities, and history those things matter. A first-time groomer, no matter how skilled, simply can’t recreate the trust and familiarity that comes from an ongoing relationship Clients may not realize how valuable that is until they go elsewhere and feel the difference
As much as a client may love your work and are willing to pay the price, sometimes life just get’s busy The reality is that the majority of people will make choices based off of ease and accessibility, whether it’s the grooming shop that’s open weekends, five minutes later, or has earlymorning drop offs.
Sometimes it can be as simple as a more convenient location This isn’t because it’s necessarily better, but it’s just easier
Clients are juggling a lot, just like us They have work, kids, errands, traffic, and tight schedules If another groomer offers walk-ins, online booking, or has more flexible hours it can tip the scales in their favor--especially for those clients who struggle to plan ahead or manage regular appointments
This doesn't mean you’re doing anything wrong. It’s not about loyalty or quality but about logistics If Samantha and her chihuahua have been a loyal customer for a year, but suddenly her daughter starts ballet next to another groomer, life may pull her in a different direction If Kenneth got sick and had to reschedule but now there’s nothing that fits his work schedule, he may need to find temporary support in the interim
Think of it like people who love their local coffee shop but still grab Starbucks in the drive-thru when they’re in a rush It’s a compromise, not a reflection on the coffee
As groomers, we often form deep, personal connections with our clients and their Petes So when someone drifts away due to something as mundane as parking or traffic, it can feel frustrating or even hurtful But it’s important to take a step back and recognize that in most cases, it’s not about you--it’s about what fits into their day Clients who leave for convenience often return when things shift again--when their schedules open up, their new spot isn’t quite the same, or they realize that the experience you offer simply isn’t something they can get anywhere else
REFERRAL OR EMERGENCY
We have all had a Kenneth Someone who reschedules last minute, then forgets to re-book, only to try and request an appointment to realize that you don’t have anything available for a month and a half Sometimes a client books with another groomer not because they were looking to leave, but because they had to.
It can sting when a loyal client steps away, even temporarily But try to approach it with grace and openness Follow up kindly if you feel it's appropriate, keep the door open, and don’t take it as a reflection of your value More often than not, they’ll remember who made them and their pet feel most cared for.
It’s not cheating It’s life Clients will come and go, and your energy is best spent focusing on the ones who choose you not chasing the ones who don’t Keep growing Keep evolving And most of all, keep grooming with heart Be confident enough to bless and release Sometimes a client outgrows your business--or you outgrow them That’s okay Don’t chase Attract
Always plan for the worst Save roadside assistance and emergency contacts in your phone and post them inside your unit Carry extra water for you and your pets, as well as backup power banks Never leave pets unattended in the van--even for a minute
AIR CONDITIONING
WATER AND HOSES
Het can cause hoses to crack and water tanks to warp or leach plastic Check for leaks, soft spots, and mildew
HOT TIPS FOR COOL RIDES
THE MEOW MOBILE
Your AC is your lifeline! Clean filters weekly, check refrigerant levels, and inspect for airflow issues Always carry backup fans in case of failure.
TIRES
Tires degrade faster on hot asphalt Check tread depth, look for dry rot, and monitor tire pressure weekly Underinflated tires are more likely to blow in extreme heat
FLOORING
Moisture + heat = warping and rot Ensure your floors are sealed and water-resistant Check for soft areas or bubbling under vinyl, especially around bathing stations
AXLE
Heavy loads plus rough roads = stress on your axle Inspect for rust, unusual sounds, or uneven tire wear Overloading can also affect braking, so balance your weight!
INSULATION
Good insulation keeps your unit cooler and protects equipment Inspect for soft spots or damage in the walls and ceiling Reflective shades, thermal curtains, and window tint can make a huge difference
BATTERIES
Extreme heat shortens battery life Test your battery monthly and ensure all terminals are clean and tight Consider carrying a jump box- heat damaged batteries can fail without warning
u l e
SATURDAY
October25
BeOurGuest
Learnhowtocreatea5StarExperience foryourclientsandelevateyour business.Inthisonehourlectureand networkingevent,youwillunderstand howtousehospitalitytoreduce complaintsandsetpolicieswith kindnessandclarity.
SUNDAY
Bibbidy-Bobbidy-Boundaries
MONDAY
October26 October27
Thisfull-dayworkshopisdesignedto supportgroomersinbuildingahealthier, moresustainablecareer.We’llexplore practicalstressmanagementtechniques, recognizingburnoutandcompassion fatigue,andhowtosetboundarieswith clientsandyourcalendar.
TheAristocats
Inthishourlonglectureandnetworking event,youwilllearnhowtoposition yourselfasaluxuryfelinegrooming businessbyusingvisualsandpricingto conveyyourquality.Getfeedbackon yourbrandvoiceandconsistencyby otherfelinecatgroomingspecialists.
DISNEYLAND CAT GROOMER RETREAT
Step away from the grooming table and into a space designed just for you The Disneyland Cat Groomer Retreat is more than a getaway it’s an intentional pause to reconnect with yourself, your peers, and your purpose in the feline grooming world.
Over the course of three inspiring days, join a community of likeminded cat groomers for a one-of-a-kind experience that blends professional enrichment with personal renewal Together, we’ll dive into the topics that matter most: mental wellness in a demanding industry, sustainable business practices, and the evolving future of feline grooming Whether you’re a solo operator, a shop owner, or a passionate cat advocate, this retreat offers a welcoming space to reflect, learn, and grow
Set against the enchanting backdrop of Disneyland, our mornings will feature optional relaxed, business-focused sessions designed to spark conversation, encourage collaboration, and provide fresh insights you can bring back to your grooming practice
In the afternoons, give yourself permission to play explore the parks, rest at your own pace, or share laughs and memories with fellow attendees
This retreat is about more than sharpening your skills; it’s about filling your cup We believe that taking care of ourselves mentally, emotionally, and socially is the first step in building a long, fulfilling career in grooming This is your opportunity to invest in your wellbeing while reigniting your passion for the work you do
Because sometimes, the most professional thing you can do is take a break and what better place to do that than the Happiest Place on Earth?
TRAVELING THIS SUMMER?
Pets are often considered part of the family, but traveling with a pet isn’t as simple as just booking a flight or driving across the border They need the correct paperwork to avoid being held up during travel The U S Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has launched a new website devoted to international pet travel which you can access at https://www aphis usda gov/pet-travel
If you are considering taking your pet from the USA to another country, you can contact a USDA-accredited veterinarian as soon as you decide to travel They will help you determine your destination country's pet entry requirements and assist you through the process
All dogs and cats entering Arizona need: Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) Rabies Vaccine PRIOR to Entry (must be 12 weeks and older), Titers are not accepted for entry
State Veterinarian’s Office: 602-542-4293
CVI@azda gov
HOME AWAY FROM HOME
tive creatures who depend on routine and a dden change in environment with new smells, can make them feel unsure or scared The iar animals, especially barking dogs or hissing ause anxiety Unfortunately, many boarding y focus on dogs often overlook the needs of es, cats are sometimes kept in closet-sized small cages with little space to move, hide, or per hiding spots or high perches, cats may feel ble
or being forced out of hiding can also increase or shy or nervous cats Loud noises like ms, or even loud music can easily startle them m cleaning products or other animals can nsitive noses If there’s nothing to do no toys, to watch cats may become bored or even tter box, or one placed too close to their food, ort or bathroom problems Separation from o lead to anxiety, even in more independent n’t feeling well, stress can make it worse or ges that are often misunderstood
HOW I HELP CATS FEEL SAFE AND RELAXED
ility, I focus completely on the comfort and ’ve created large, open suites where cats can freely, and feel at home never confined to a te includes cozy hiding spots and high perches fe and in control of their space I use calming e, relaxing music throughout the day to create ere The entire facility is quiet, with no barking ng noise Litter boxes are kept clean and placed ble areas, with fresh air and calming scents e
eel even more at home, I always encourage ng their cat’s favorite bed, blankets, or toys objects can provide comfort and make their also provide toys, climbing options, and quiet s that match your cat’s personality and energy tly, I offer gentle, patient care tailored to each y feel safe, understood, and loved every day
LET’S GET WILD
Hi everyone I’m Giselle the owner of The Dusty Puppy LLC and creative groomer located in North Phoenix Let’s talk animal print! Animal print is such a fun and easy way to practice creative grooming Whether it’s natural print, or Lisa frank inspired the possibilities are endless!
One thing I always like to recommend for people who are first starting to do any animal print designs is use a point of reference I like to google pictures of the animal I’m trying to replicate and I will zoom in on their coat patterns to get an idea of how to paint them on my pup! The best thing about animal print? It doesn’t need to be perfect! No two animals coats are exactly the same which takes a load of stress off of the shoulders of the perfectionists out there lol
Don’t want to do natural colors for the animal print? Say no more throw the colors of the rainbow on there and have your very own walking Lisa frank pup Have fun with it!
While it may seem intimidating at first once you get in the groove you’ll be wanting to bit leopard print on every dog. I can’t wait to see what all you lovely groomers have in store get wild!
A PURR-FESSIONAL AT HER BEST
Hi there! Tell us a little bit about yourself
I own Alex's Paw Spa I am the owner and groomer and have owned my business since February of 2018 I am a Certified Feline Master Groomer and specialize in grooming cats!
What are you most passionate about when it comes to grooming?
When it comes to grooming, I am most passionate about teaching the community and my clients how to properly care for their pets Most pet owners don't know the importance of grooming and diet and I have a great passion for sharing my knowledge to give these pets the happy and healthy life they all deserve!
What’s one thing you always do to keep your motivation high, especially on tough days?
I keep my motivation high by reminding myself of the impact I make on these pets lives They may not always understand I'm helping them- but I do and It's clear once the grooming is over and they prance around and their mood perks up more than it ever has
Do you remember the moment you decided you wanted to be a groomer? What drew you to this career?
I started grooming when I turned 18 I wanted to do any job that worked with animals while I went to school to be a veterinarian Not long after that I fell in love with grooming! I loved seeing the transformations after their haircuts, helping matted animals feel themselves again, and seeing how the pet parents eyes widened and their faces lit up after seeing their babies new haircut
What would you consider your style of grooming to be?
My style of grooming is Intuitive and Relationship-focused I listen to the subtle cues that cats give during grooming- a shift in breathing, the way they act when moved into positions, etc It's extremely important to listen to these cats during grooming, it can tell you a lot even though they can't speak with words I also focus on creating strong bonds with my clients and their pets, I love them like they are my own and treat them as such This creates strong bonds and lasting relationships- I care about the clients like their my family- not just their pets!
If you could be any animal, which one would you be and why?
I would be a Lion! I'm a Leo so I'm a little biased- but I've always loved lions They're strong and majestic animals that are protective and loyal I think grooming one would be a blast too!
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not busy at work, slaying it?
I am definitely a huge foodie and traveler I love traveling to new states and countries and exploring the architecture and cuisines I like to find new restaurants all over Arizona and try them all It is my biggest joy in life next to grooming!
If you could have any snack or drink delivered to your station daily, what would it be?
I'm a sucker for Jimmy Johns- I would get their italian unwhich with salt and vinegar chips- yum!
What’s your secret to success? Any hidden talents we don’t know about?
My success to grooming has always been that I'm extremely resilient and give my clients the best possible customer service I believe in taking care of my clients any way I can and making sure they feel comfortable with their babies in my care and are equipped with all of the knowledge they need for them- they are what keeps my business going and deserve to be treated as such! I am also extremely resilient When it comes to grooming/mobile there are SO many bumps in the road such as mechanical issues, difficult pets, etc which can lead to burnout fast I never let anything get me down for long- grooming is my passion and you just have to keep moving forward!
What’s been the biggest turning point or milestone in your grooming career so far?
My biggest milestone in my career was becoming a Certified Feline Master Groomer and realizing that I wanted to focus more on cats in my mobile business.
How has the grooming industry changed since you started?
There has been a massive growth in pet ownership since I became a groomer- especially with cats! COVID sparked a huge rise in pet adoptions so more people then ever own cats now I've also seen a growth in mobile groomers and holistic style grooming, which I definitely support!
If you could groom any celebrity’s pet, who would it be and why?
I would groom Katy Perry's cats! Her cats name is Kittty Purrycan't get cuter than that!
Cats are famously...opinionated. How do you win their trust during a grooming session?
Cats feel our energy- its important to always have a calm and confident demeanor when grooming cats to earn their trust and to show them you're there to help them and make them look beautiful!
If cats could talk, what do you think they’d say about their spa day with you?
I think they would say something like "I didn't plan on liking this grooming session, but I did Alex walked in my space calm and respectful and let me set the tone- which felt refreshing Now look at me with my handsome cut! Definitely worth it "
What’s the funniest or most unexpected thing a cat has ever done while you were grooming it?
Funniest thing? One cat straight up hit the emergency eject button on me I was mid-bath with this sassy little Persian who was totally chill at first, lulling me into a false sense of security Then out of nowhere she stood up and launched from the tub like she was auditioning for Cirque du Soleil! Needless to say she was ready to head home She let me finish her grooming and she was on her way looking cuter then ever
ING THE
We have all heard the cliche that cats hate water, but any professional cat groomer will tell you it’s nothing but a tired old trope Mainstream media has promoted cats in our culture as being this villainous creature who shirks human interaction and is so fiercely independent that owners feel not only compelled but comfortable leaving them for days on end while they vacation We’re told that because cats lick themselves with a textured tongue they’re obviously self cleaners, so the thought of bathing is not only characterized as cruel but unnecessary
And you know if enough people say it, it must be true Enter eye-roll emoji
So where does this “myth-conception” happen?
Stereotypes are generalized beliefs, often oversimplified and not entirely accurate This stereotype of cat’s not being receptive to grooming is just that: a generalized and oversimplified assumption that is not just inaccurate but negatively impacting the feline species in domestication
When it comes to cats, there doesn’t seem to be a happy medium It’s either, “Yes I can groom cats” or “Hell no, there’s no way I’m grooming cats.”
First and foremost, I’m an advocate for people staying in their own lane and not challenging themselves beyond what they feel comfortable or capable Everyone loses in those situations; injury, death, traumatization, you name it--for both the cat and the groomer
There is no better teacher than hands on experience (aka Professor FAFO), and as a Certified Feline Master Groomer and cat exclusive business, I wanted to share with you some key triggers to keep in mind so you set both you and the cat up for success in the salon
REMIND YOURSELF IT’S A CAT
It may sound ridiculous or potentially condescending, but I mean it in the most sincerest and supportive way Whenever I teach a class, I like to take a moment to remind everyone, and have them say out loud: domestication is not a classification
Again, it may sound a bit condescending but there’s actually science behind it Think of it this way, a kindergarten teacher is suddenly asked to substitute a senior high school class Classroom management, behavioral support, and even teaching methods are going to be widly different The same vice versa If you are a dog groomer who does only a few cats a week, sometimes that mental
check is just enough to remind us of who we’re working with Your muscle memory, rationalizations, problem solving modifications are based on heavily trafficked ‘dog neuropathways’ In other words, it’s what you’re used to doing, and here is this other four legged furry pet that is kind of in the same shape, so your mind and body go on autopilot
Mainstream media of course, reinforces this idea culturally Cats are constantly being compared to dogs We take the two species, and say, “dogs are sociable, want attention, beg for food” and are thereby man’s best friends Because cats do not socialize and seek attention in the same way, rather than recognizing their attributes we claim, “cats are anti-social, independent,“ and they make quiet roommates
But again--domestication is not a classification They’re their own species, with their own set of temperament triggers, behavioral anomalies, wants/needs, with specific and specialized handling techniques and grooming approaches for them
SCAREDY CAT
People stereotype cats as being incredibly fearful and anxious but the truth is they’re just under-socialized Cats do not have a wide point of reference when it comes to the world They’re not a domesticated pet that usually gets invited out of the house
A well socialized dog would be a dog who responds well to guests, is good for car rides, behaves well in public and doesn’t react negatively to stimuli This is often achieved by purposeful socialization The dog gets to go on car rides--and it could be to go get a pup cup, the park, a party, the vet, to grandmas, to get shots, out to eat, they just don’t know There’s so many options, that it doesn’t immediately correlate an A to B connection
When a cat goes into the car, it’s usually for something stressful such as a long move or a trip to the vet A well socialized cat is often considered a cat who will approach guests when they come to the house and shows interest Most individuals do not take their cats out on leisurely trips so it’s not unrealistic that they get frightened or worried when they see the cat carrier come out
As groomers, we can take this into consideration and set the cat up for success by doing our best to re-frame the mindset that cat’s just can’t to positive re/conditioning
No one would second guess why a doodle hates being groomed if they’re only finally coming to the salon at three years old and severely matted No one would question why a rescue-dog might have some trauma at being touched when they come from an inconclusive back ground
Keep in mind most individuals are getting their cats from rescues or their friend’s neighbor’s brother’s house who had a litter of kittens Out of the vast majority of clients I help in Arizona, only a minimal percentage are actually purposefully bred
a new client, and making sure to ask where they got their cat from can let you know in advance, if you’re working in a situation where the cat may be a little more sensitive or reactive to some situations
Consistency is key to positive conditioning, and even more consistency when reconditioning Advising your client that the more you do this, the faster they’ll acclimate isn’t just going to make your job easier but it’s going to help the cat have an easier time
SENSORY OVERLOAD
When we talk about sensory overload, we’re talking about external stimuli that plays an immediate or long-term effect on the cat This could be anything from barking dogs in the salon, the sound of the generator in a van, loud backfire bangs on the street, or even people walking in and out
Especially for cats who have been rescued or do not live in noisy active homes, this can be particularly distressing Remember-there’s a good chance that they were already upset prior to arriving by being put in the crate and then whatever travel time
Some ideas for mitigating sensory overload:
Cat only hours: no dogs allowed, limits barking and predator threat
Shortening wait times: groom cats as they arrive so they don’t have time to “stew”) calling families immediately for pick up Use Happy Hoodies and Air Muzzles to help deafen sound and visual view
Warm almost hot water: Cat’s body temperature runs at 102 degrees. This means if you’re washing them hoping to not scald them, if the water is cool to you it is extra cool to them
Using an appropriate nozzle: cats are reactive to sound and you want a stream that is effective but not too forceful, quiet as possible
Don’t spray their face, less pressure when washing sensitive areas
Cat Nipped is a humane and targeted TNR initiative that safely traps feral cats, provides them with spay/neuter surgery, administers any necessary medications, and then returns them to their original location--healthier and no longer contributing to the cycle of overpopulation
This approach is widely recognized as the most effective and compassionate way to manage feral cat populations While some cats can be rehabilitated, the majority cannot and we believe in returning them to their known environment with known and accessible methods of resources
Donations are essential in running this program, as well as volunteers To contribute to this program, please visit us at wwwWhatsTheMewscom
THE TOUCH THRESHOLD
Over or mishandling a cat is the number one way to piss it off
The Touch Threshold is what I like to refer to as the amount of time the cat has before they completely flip out The National Cat Groomer’s Institute refers to this as “The Turkey Timer”, because you can’t unhook a turkey Once they’re done--they’re done There’s no going back
When I say threshold, I’m referring to a boundary; a point at which psychological and or physiological effects begin to occur When we reach the threshold, we are at a level where the cat is telling us, okay I’m done When we pass this threshold, when we go beyond what the cat is capable of, we are in traumatization territory.
We are not in the business of torturing cats There’s a fine line between I don’t like something and I am afraid for my life This is not something that I can explain with words, but a palpation technique that is learned through hands on education and experience Instead, what I can offer is things to consider when grooming to make sure you’re using your time efficiently \
We can support a cat’s threshold by:
Completing the groom quickly and efficiently No grooms should last more than one and a half/ two hours
Do not flip the cat over and around repeatedly
If you are struggling with getting a certain area by yourself, ask for support
No full body holds: cats do not like full body restraints and being held down, especially by multiple people can make them escalate quickly and reach their threshold quicker
Learn the signs of distress vs discomfort by a feline grooming specialist Continuing education is key, just make sure you find someone who actually works with cats at a high volume on a regular basis
Ask about health issues: cats with arthritis may be more sensitive to certain positions and tasks. Many cats don’t get to go to the vet for regular check ups, so keeping the cat’s age in mind can help your handling modifications
NO EGO IN SAFETY
Our first and foremost priority as groomers should be the safety and wellfare of the animals in our care There is no room for pride or ego when it comes to working with live animals There’s no special prize that anyone wins for being the best cat groomer, the groomer that can work with the worst behaved cats
We do ourselves and the cat a disservice when we take on temperaments or cases that are out our skill level There is no shame in saying, “this is out of my comfort zone” and referring to someone else When I first started, I frequently referred out It shouldn’t feel like losing business, it should feel like gaining trust from your clients
We are in a competitive industry where everyone wants to be the best Everyone wants a “piece of the pie”, and in a niche as small as cat grooming there’s so much room for all of us
So often, I recieve referrals from other groomers and vets on “unworkable” or “untouchable cats” Cats that have had to be fully sedated before they were even able to do a simple sanitary trim More often than not the cat is reactive due to fear or anxiety Knowing when to refer out is essential It is professional There are some cats that I have attempted to do inside their home as a house call groomer, and they were so incredibly fractious and territorial that I’ve recommended doing them in a van or salon, away from the “Lion’s Den Syndrome” They have been successful And vice versa
Communication with the client is essential in achieving fair and collaborative care When we begin recognizing certain triggers, we can then work on avoiding them We can focus on positive conditioning and building happier experiences
When we take on cats who are out of our depth, or label them as unworkable, we’re denying them an opportunity for care and permeating this idea that cat’s hate this or that It’s simply untrue Instead we must focus on attaching reactions to triggers, and work within the grooming community around us to help find them the right care To help educate mainstream media and the clients we have that cat’s do not inherintly hate water, they just need to be trained To experience it in a positive way When a groomer claims that “cats hate the high velocity dryer” because they haven’t found how to do it ethically or appropriately, they insinuate that those who have achieved that skill are immoral for doing so
When we understand what is setting them off, understand the behaviors before us, we can avoid the catalysts that send them over the edge
SHAMPOO HELPS, BUT SALMON OIL SLAYS
A cat’s coat isn’t just about aesthetics it’s a direct reflection of their internal health When properly nourished, a cat’s fur appears soft, glossy, and dense On the other hand, a dull or unkempt coat may signal dietary imbalances or other health issues Whether at home or in a professional salon setting, understanding the link between nutrition and grooming is essential to keeping cats healthy and comfortable
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN NUTRITION AND COAT HEALTH
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require nutrients found only in animal-based foods. Protein is one of the most vital components for coat health Hair is made primarily of keratin, a protein that needs constant replenishment and without sufficient high-quality protein, cats can experience poor hair growth, increased shedding, and a brittle coat
Essential fatty acids also play a major role Omega-3s help reduce inflammation and improve coat sheen, while omega-6s are necessary for skin moisture and elasticity A deficiency in either can lead to dry, flaky skin and a dull, lifeless coat- basically turning your pet from runway-ready to rough and ragged real quick!
It’s important to know that vitamins and minerals complete the picture Vitamin A supports skin regeneration and oil production B vitamins, particularly biotin, are essential for hair strength and texture Antioxidants like vitamin E protect skin cells, and trace minerals such as zinc and copper help maintain coat color and prevent skin lesions Even hydration influences coat health cats on dry food diets may experience dehydration, which can manifest as dry or itchy skin, which is why it’s important to always include some wet food in your cat’s diet to ensure they’re getting the hydration they need Cats need vitamins and water to stay healthy just like us!
HOW POOR NUTRITION AFFECTS GROOMING
When cats don’t get the nutrition they need, the consequences often show up in their grooming routines Cats with nutrient deficiencies may shed excessively, and their coats may tangle or mat more easily The weakened hair shaft breaks and falls out, while skin lacking in natural oils can become flaky or irritated
JOIN THE GUILD
The Arizona Professional Groomers Guild a non-profit organization comprised of professional pet groomers in the state of Arizona Originally founded in 2022; it began as a social club, establishing a strong community first before collaborating into an association to better support each and every groomer To be a member of the Arizona Groomers Guild is to prioritize competency and compassion through continuing education and community
There is no license or certification required to groom in the United States The APGG recognizes the importance of continuing education and the impact professional development has on individuals and the animals and people we serve
Working with live animals can be an emotionally taxing career, and compassion for oneself as well as the animals we service is vital The APGG prioritizes whole health for both humans and animals and actively seeks to find methods in bettering everyone’s overall well-being
Our organization is founded on community and mutual collaboration We pride ourselves in open discussion to learn new skills and ways of thinking Together we develop, support, network, advocate, and connect to enhance not just our industry but to grow professionally
FROM THE EDITOR
I may be biased, but every month should be cat month
I’m so excited to share the cover photo and it’s spectacular groomer, Patricia Gammon Lawson of Virginia!
Patricia started out in exotic pet care in 1985 but opened her own grooming shop in 1992! Since then, she has transitioned into a small animal veterinary clinic, working as a vet assistant since 1986. Her photo won in the Professional Cat Grooming Facebook Group, which hosts over 2 3 thousand members
It is an honor to share her work with you all! The world needs more beautifully groomed cats, just like hers
As always,
AZGroomersGuild@gmail.com
