Groomer to Groomer October 2020 by Barkleigh Productions

“THE GROOMING INDUSTRY’S TRADE MAGAZINE!” VOL. 39 ED.10 • OCTOBER 2020

WWW. GROOMERTOGROOMER .COM

(AND WHY THEY LOVE IT)

CATS VS DOGS: CARING FOR FELINE SKIN AND COAT

TURNING TIGERS

INTO PUR R FECT PETS Photo Credit: Helena Schmid catmosphere • Katzenbaden.ch

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CONTENTS | OCTOBER 2020

Purrocious Styles Feline Designs

TIPS for Marketing YOUR CAT GROOMING

BUSINESS

FILLING A VOID & BUILDING TRUST

16 by Jen Phillips April

by Lynn Paolillo

Faver: Cats VS Dogs: Caring for Feline Skin & Coat 6 Hansen: Cat Breeds, Colors and Patterns 50 Simplified Connor: Grooming on a Smaller Scale

12 Tutorial: The Dynamic Dino Trim

Knowles: Rules of Engagement: Settling Differences in the Salon

22 New Products

Hosler: Contented Cat Groomers (and Why 28 Classifieds 68 They Love It) David: Turning Tigers into Purrfect Pets 38 Calendar of Events

WHAT’S YOUR

Backup Plan ? 44

by Khris Berry

“THE GROOMING INDUSTRY’S TRADE MAGAZINE!” VOL. 39 ED.10 • OCTOBER 2020

WWW. GROOMERTOGROOMER .COM

(AND WHY THEY LOVE IT)

CATS VS DOGS:

CARING FOR FELINE SKIN AND COAT

TURNING TIGERS

INTO PURRFECT PETS Photo Credit: Helena Schmid catmosphere • Katzenbaden.ch

Copyright October 2020. Groomer to Groomer is published monthly by Barkleigh Productions, Inc, 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. Postmaster: Send change of address to Groomer to Groomer c/o Barkleigh Productions, Inc., 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. Annual U.S. subscription rate $25. Outside U.S. $79. year, surface rates. Groomer to Groomer is free to current Barkleigh Productions, Inc. customers. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. Editorial offices: 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. (717) 691–3388 FAX: (717) 691–3381 Email: info@barkleigh.com

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ON THE COVER Photo by Helena Schmid catmosphere • Katzenbaden.ch

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

DERM CONNECTION

by Dr. Cliff Faver

CATS DOGS VS

CARING FOR FELINE SKIN AND COAT The skin and grooming needs of cats are vastly different from those of dogs. One of the biggest differences is that cats groom themselves on a regular basis. We do not observe this on the same level with dogs.

ats also show quite different behaviors relative to the grooming process, which makes them a challenge, so we must approach the grooming process in a unique way. When working with cats, the first thing to consider is the less restraint we use, the better. The more you try to dominate a cat, the more they will fight back. Another aspect to take into consideration is that water can be intimidating to cats, so a gentle, slow approach is the best way to handle them. If you are in too much

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

of a hurry while bathing a cat, you will eventually have scars to remind you that does not work. When it comes to products and approaching skin issues, the science is the science. The skin and skin cycles are the same as other animals so, ideally, they should be groomed monthly. This is something foreign to a lot of cat owners. In some cases, it is even dreaded by the owners because of the “hassle” of transporting the cat to the groomer. Getting cats into the salon monthly should be our ultimate goal when possible—but the good news GroomertoGroomer.com

is, since cats self–groom (not like dog owners that “say” they groom regularly), they actually will do better than dogs. Of course, this is only the case if the cat as well as its hair and skin are in good health. If the hair and skin are in good condition, then maintenance becomes quite easy. The hair and skin need to be shampooed with a mild shampoo followed by an appropriate conditioner. Using harsh shampoos or dish soap can be very detrimental to the coat because it strips too much of the natural oils. This will leave a dry, harsh

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matted cat, have them get subcutaneous fluids the day before they get groomed. You and the cat will be pleased with the results!

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

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coat which tends to break easily, making it difficult for the cat to self–groom. One extreme difference between a cat and a dog is the cat’s tongue. The cat’s tongue has barbs (papillae) on its surface which behave as a comb or brush as it is run through the coat. This process wicks saliva along these barbs, which also helps hydrate deep into the hair. This function serves very well with healthy hair, but if the hair gets dry, brittle or matted, then we have an entirely different situation. Think about trying to run a brush through a matted dog. This is similar to a cat grooming its matted coat. It is very painful, so the cat stops grooming. Now we are left with a ratty–looking, matted cat. If we can return the hair coat back to normal hydration and eliminate matting, most of these cats will go back to grooming (if not arthritic or suffering from health issues that limit the ability to groom). Conditioning is the key here. A great technique to help this scenario is condition, shampoo and condition again (using appropriate hydrating conditioners). By conditioning first, it will break down the old sebum and pre–hydrate the hair and skin prior to the shampoo. This will lessen some of the harshness of the shampoo and will add back some of the elasticity of the hair, reducing the brittleness. This doesn’t mean you can use harsh soaps because you conditioned first. You will still need to use mild shampoos. Many of these cats will also present very “greasy,” so the general tendency is to reach for the degreasing shampoo. Makes sense, right? You will actually get the opposite result! The more the “grease” and oils of the skin are stripped, the more the skin will produce as a response. This may look visually appealing going out the door, but in the long run, they will be back for the same problem. If we use the condition–shampoo–condition technique and use a good hydrating conditioner, then many of these coats will be restored to having

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normal amounts of oil (versus excessive amounts). The conditioner must be hydrating to be successful (ideally, a humectant). If it is only an emollient that just sits on the surface, then the results may not be the same. Luckily, we do not see the frequency of skin issues in cats as we do in dogs. This is most likely the case because of the density of the hair. The denser hair of cats works as a good barrier to toxins,

allergens and parasites. It does not mean they cannot be affected by them, but it occurs at a lower incidence. Then the question of shaving cats arises. It’s a pretty simple response; if we take away the protection, they will be more vulnerable. Just like with dogs, we must routinely maintain the coat correctly, otherwise we deal with issues and have to make choices that might not be ideal.

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The most common skin and hair issue I see with cats relates back to one of the most predominant health issues in cats—especially older cats—which is dehydration. I have always said that cats are like flowers; they are beautiful when hydrated, but when they get dehydrated, they wilt like a flower. As cats age, they are prone to kidney issues, which lead to dehydration. Keep them hydrated and their health and grooming issues become much easier to cope with. One thing to consider if you are grooming an older cat without success is that it may be time to recommend some blood work with the veterinarian. Other issues that will show similar signs in cats are hyperthyroid (too much thyroid, which is opposite of what dogs usually have), liver disease, heart disease, etc. Things are changing very rapidly in the cat world. Cats are living much longer (I recently had a 28–year–old cat in my practice), clients are taking better care of their cats and groomers are realizing that cats can be great grooming clients (contrary to the general belief). When you learn how to approach and relate to cats, they are wonderful pets to groom. It is also a fantastic niche market because not everyone has figured this out. Cat grooming can be an extremely rewarding, lucrative area for groomers to specialize in. & Dr. Cliff Faver graduated with a BS in Biology/BA in Chemistry before getting a Veterinary degree in 1987. He is the past owner of Animal Health Services in Cave Creek, Arizona and now the US distributor for Iv San Bernard products, teaches the ISB Pet Aesthetician Certification program, and speaks internationally on hair and skin. His passion is to merge groomers and veterinarians to aid in helping and healing pets. He is also a member of AVMA, AAHA, AZVMA, Board member with Burbank Kennel Club, and has served on Novartis Lead Committee, Hill’s International Global Veterinary Board, and a Veterinary Management Group.

by Daryl Conner

his year’s pandemic caused many groomers across the country to have to shut down for weeks or months. During that time, some of us took the opportunity to spruce up our workspaces, some took up baking or a new sport, while others binge–watched television and put on weight they did not intend to. But then there are people who channeled the creative energy they normally expend on pets into a whole new hobby. Maria Santella of Sicklerville, New Jersey is a groomer with 32 years of experience, and also teaches grooming at a local technical school. She thought it would be fun to dabble in the world of making room boxes. A room box is a display for three–dimensional, miniature environments. They are much like a doll house, but fashioned with just

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

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one room instead of a larger, multi– room structure. Typically made to a scale where one inch represents one foot, the sky is the limit when inventing a space in miniature. Santella said, “I have always been interested in miniatures, but only started working on them during the coronavirus shutdown. I originally started on a miniature house but wanted to do something different. I thought of just doing a room box of a grooming room. This was my first attempt at anything miniature. Since very few stores were open, I decided to make everything myself.” She found most of the materials used in her wee grooming room around her house. “I used some craft supplies that I already had. An example of some of the materials I used are foam board, popsicle sticks, bottle caps, toilet paper rolls, aquar-

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"There are a lot of tutorials on YouTube for creating miniatures, but I found little on the subject of pet grooming, so I just had to wing it on a lot of the things I made,” Santella says.

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ium tubing, a toothbrush, jewelry findings and printed pictures from the internet.” The tub sprayer looks like water could come spurting out at any minute. She fashioned that from an Apple ear bud! Everything in her room box was crafted at home except the poodle figure, which she purchased on Etsy.com. “I found doing this particular miniature was not very hard, but it was time–consuming since I made everything myself. There are a lot of tutorials on YouTube for creating miniatures, but I found little on the subject of pet grooming, so I just had to wing it on a lot of the things I made,” Santella says. From tiny shampoo bottles to soft terry cloth towels, everything a Lilliputian groomer could ever wish for is included in this tiny salon. There are even Barkleigh Clip Cards to keep record of every miniscule pet. With her first amazing project

completed, Santella plans to finish a miniature house done with a modern theme, and she has also started a house with a horror theme. Because building the actual houses does not

interest her, she bought both, one at a rummage store and one on the internet. These larger projects will be more time–consuming and complex. “Room boxes are the way to go

for newbies interested in miniature, as you can make any design or theme you can think of in a smaller area, making it as simple or elaborate as you want,” concludes Santella. &

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Marketing

YOUR CAT

GROOMING

BUSINESS E by Lynn Paolillo e

Whether you are opening a new cat grooming business, adding services to an existing salon or wanting to beef up your cat client list, you’ll need to have a game plan for your advertising money and efforts.

aving no plan is like throwing spaghetti against a wall and hoping something sticks. Marketing to the types of cat owners you want to work with doesn’t have to be frustrating or expensive, but it does require a plan.

1. ESTABLISH WHO YOU WANT TO WORK WITH This first step will lay the groundwork for the rest of your marketing strategy. “Cat owner” is too broad of a category, so you will need to narrow

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

down the type of cats and owners you want to work with in your business. Is it certain breeds, grooming styles, services or schedule frequencies? Cat owners typically want solutions that they can’t find at every grooming business, so your business should be clear about what services you offer and how you can help a cat owner. Unlike dog grooming, cat grooming is less about the style or shape of the haircut and focuses more on solving an immediate problem (like painful matting or excess shedding)

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and preventing it in the future. In turn, this should change how advertising is approached, both through how services are presented and how potential and existing customers are engaged with.

2. REACHING NEW CLIENTS How to get new clients in the door is always a hot button topic—for any business—not just cat grooming. Your business should take into consideration where the type of cat owner you want to attract would be looking for a new service provider. Never put all of

If you are also grooming dogs, make sure that cats have a clear representation amongst a sea of cute puppies. Many cat owners look for a quiet environment without barking dogs. your eggs in one basket when it comes to marketing; you’ll want to utilize multiple platforms without spreading your time or budget too thin. These days, an online presence is practically a necessity. This can include any combination of a website, search engine directories (like Google My Business) and social media business accounts. While it can be tempting to treat your business profiles as an extension of your personal one, you’ll need to develop a clear and consistent strategy for any platform you want your business to reside on.

Online marketing is not a “set it and forget it” medium. The more active your business is, the more your posts or pages will reach new people. So, dedicate time each month to plan out posts, pictures and even videos that can bring your cat grooming services to the forefront. If you are also grooming dogs, make sure that cats have a clear representation amongst a sea of cute puppies. Many cat owners look for a quiet environment without barking dogs. To show this, post finished cat grooms not only demonstrating the styles you

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offer, but also to show how relaxed the cats look after their appointments. One thing to keep in mind with social media accounts is that many platforms offer paid advertising options. This means your reach to show up in potential clients’ feeds is increased by spending money. Boosting posts is an inexpensive way to do this, but you should choose posts carefully so that it encourages engagement. While a beautiful groom can lead to likes and reactions, paying for any ad should lead to someone clicking on it so that they are led to where they can make

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

There are many email marketing platforms that are relatively inexpensive where promotional and informative emails can be sent to keep your business at the front of your customers’ minds. an appointment. This is referred to as a “call to action.” Meaning, your image (or video) was eye–catching enough to make a stranger stop scrolling, read the caption and is so intrigued that they take action. An example could be adding, “And to book your cat’s appointment, call us at (your phone number),” at the end of your post. Paying for social media boosts or ads can be utilized at almost any budget, even as low as a few dollars. However, it can take a lot of trial

and error to figure out what types of posts, images and copy lead to the customers you want.

3. STRENGTHEN STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS Ask any groomer where they got a lot of new clients from, and many will say, “word of mouth.” But what does that mean exactly, and how can you get more cat clients from it? This is where strategic partnerships play a big role. A lot of cat

owners will ask for referrals or recommendations from other pet professionals including veterinarians, pet store owners/workers, pet sitters and even other groomers. It is important to build and nurture relationships with other businesses in your area to establish credibility and lead to a full book very quickly. One of the huge benefits of grooming cats is that referrals will come from other grooming salons since few want to or even offer cat grooming.

4. KEEPING THE CLIENTS YOU WANT The most cost–efficient marketing is to get existing clients to come back for frequent, repeat visits. The best way to do this is to make time for engagement, which can be done both online and offline, including email marketing, social media posting and commenting, mailed postcards and promoting re–booking in person. While having several hundred or several thousand followers on your Facebook or Instagram may seem like an impressive way to compile clients and potential clients, keep in mind that content shared and accounts connected to those accounts aren’t owned by your business. This means that at any time there could be changes to the algorithm, your accounts could be blocked or inaccessible and you will have lost all of that information. Always keep client contact information where you can save and back it up. The easiest method is through an email list. There are many email

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

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marketing platforms that are relatively inexpensive where promotional and informative emails can be sent to keep your business at the front of your customers’ minds. Whenever you send an email, post on social media or otherwise reach out to your clients through these platforms, the biggest thing to remember is to follow up with engagement. Interact with your clients how you want them to interact with you by replying to their comments, sharing pictures and posts they would like, and following up with any questions or concerns. Engagement is not only a way to build and maintain personal connections with your customers, but it also boosts your organic reach on social media. For cat owners, many of the problems they need help with can

be solved with regular grooming schedules. Make it easy for them to come in more frequently by offering packages or setting up a reminder system. For example, owners lamenting over sharp cat nails may like the idea of a nail trim loyalty program or punch card, or a pre–booked nail caps schedule every six weeks. Because your focus with cats should be on selling the solution, not the service, when booking initial appointments for a new client, discuss an appropriate schedule at the same time. Then, once they’ve seen their clean, fresh–smelling kitty, it is easier to follow up with booking their next appointment on the spot. And if they don’t pre–book, set yourself a reminder to reach out a few weeks before the next time you’d like to see them.

5. CREATING A STRATEGY Marketing shouldn’t be a “fly by the seat of your pants” task. Set aside time to come up with a plan, what you’ll need to do to implement it, and finally a way to track and analyze the results. Start by doing an audit on your current marketing efforts: What are you actively doing to bring in new clients and to retain existing clients? What is your success rate and how much does it cost you per new client? Using what has worked for you, lay out the next 3–6 months of actions that you need to take. Here are some examples to get you started: • Plan three social media posts per week. • Schedule one day every two weeks to take photos of pets for sharing. • Stop by two local pet businesses per week to drop off marketing materials and goodies. • Send an email with two articles and one service/product promotion each month. • Research local sporting events and request prices for sponsorship. Not all of these examples will be part of your strategy, and don’t feel you have to overload yourself right off the bat. A grooming salon that has been established for a number of years will have very different marketing efforts than a new business just getting off the ground. This can take some trial and error, so start small before investing large amounts of money or time. Knowing the type of client you want to attract and tailoring your efforts to them will help you craft a functional and successful marketing plan at every stage of your cat grooming business. &

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

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@123petsw

@123pet

by Michelle Knowles

RRUULES LES E NGAGEMENT : R ULES

ne of the most aggravating things to deal with is trying to settle a disagreement with someone. Each party feels they are right, and often feel like they are not being heard by the other person. Clients can be argumentative, colleagues get snarky and bosses can be downright bossy at times. The only thing one can control is oneself when circumstances present a disagreement. Learning how to manage strong feelings while having a discussion or disagreement will help you see more clearly, and get to an acceptable resolution quicker without doing more damage to the relationship. In the salon, we work day after day under stressful conditions. Any conflict that should arise is magnified by the energy of the staff and the pets that are in various stages of fight, flight, avoidance and acceptance. It is important to remember that clear communication under these circumstances is of the utmost importance if you have any chance at all of keeping the stress level at a dull roar. Even on the best of days, when everything is calm, you may get that one panicked or overwrought client that throws everyone’s mood into a tailspin. A little practice and preplanning can give you the coping mechanisms to remain calm and diffuse the potential calamity. When an event occurs, emotions are heightened and sharp words and residual feelings can affect everyone in the salon—as well as the comfort of the pets that we are caring for. Learning how to negotiate a win-win solution benefits everyone involved and strengthens trust between peers so that when another event occurs, the participants have more experience in helping to find common ground. Here are some ground rules to remember when entering a discussion

E NGAGEMENT: E NGAGEMENT: SETTLING

DIFFERENCES IN THE SALON

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

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Agree to make a conscious, sincere effort to refrain from unproductive arguing, venting and narration, and agree to use the time in mediation to work toward what is perceived to be the most constructive agreement possible.

over a disagreement: 1. Agree to take turns speaking and to try to not interrupt each other. 2. Agree to call each other by first names, not “he” or “she,” or worse. 3. Ask questions of each other for the purposes of gaining clarity and understanding and not as attacks. 4. Agree to listen respectfully and sincerely try to understand the other’s needs and interests. 5. Recognize that, even if we do not agree with it, each of us is entitled to our own perspective. 6. Seek to avoid dwelling on things that did not work in the past, and instead focus on the future we want to create. 7. Agree to make a conscious, sincere effort to refrain from unproductive arguing, venting and narration, and agree to use the time in

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One of the most important things to remember is that no disagreement is personal; it often depends on the mood of the people involved at the time.

mediation to work toward what is perceived to be the most constructive agreement possible. Training yourself to actually listen instead of waiting for the other person to be finished so you can talk is one of the hardest skills to learn, but will pay dividends when you get it right. Be warm and attentive and show that you are listening. A genuine desire for a positive outcome will help win the day. When the other party does not follow the ground rules, a strategic break is a good way to help calm nerves and get the discussion back on course. These rules will help guide the discussion and avoid pitfalls like name calling, dredging up the past and hyperfocusing on points that have little to do with the main issue. One of the most important things to remember is that no disagreement is personal; it often depends on the mood of the people involved at the time. You always have complete control of your own words and actions. Sometimes it is best to refrain from engaging in a discussion gone wrong until tempers are cooled and the facts can be separated from emotion. Good communication is a skill that can be learned with practice and a calm mind. Learning how to come together to find solutions is always better than letting differences tear us apart. &

References: Dana, Daniel. Managing Differences: How to Build Better Relationships at Work and Home. 2nd ed., MTI Publications, 1999. Melamed, James. “Sample Mediation Ground Rules.” Mediate.com, www. mediate.com/articles/melamed7.cfm. Accessed 1 Aug. 2020.

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GROOMING GAB

by Kathy Hosler

CONTENTED

GROOMERS (AND WHY THEY LOVE IT!)

The phone rings, and when I answer it I hear, “Do you groom cats?” Hardly a day goes by that I don’t get a call like that. When I started grooming many years ago, I was seldom asked that question. But,

times have really changed.

hat phone call got me wondering if other stylists were also being inundated by people needing their cats groomed. I know there are some groomers who wouldn’t touch a cat with a 10–foot pole. But of those of us that do groom cats, I was curious about how many find it to be a lucrative, satisfying part of their business. So, I interviewed some stylists who love grooming cats, and got their views

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

on why they prefer to groom cats and what they enjoy most about it. I asked Justine Cosley, a Nationally Certified Master Groomer (NCMG), Certified Feline Master Groomer (CFMG) and winning creative grooming competitor, who operates a cats–only salon, Cat Around Town Grooming (C.A.T. Grooming), why she no longer grooms dogs. “I made the decision to go cats– only because there is such a need for GroomertoGroomer.com

people who specialize in cats,” says Justine. “We get so many that have been turned away from other grooming shops. We aren’t taking new customers unless they are referred by veterinarians for behavior issues or are too old to be sedated. We know we are sometimes their last resort. I love being able to be there for those cats that need us the most. “I would never go back to grooming dogs,” Justine continues. “I do

“Some of the best

–Justine Cosley, NCMG, CFMG

miss it sometimes, but cats are in my blood. Grooming bad cats that no one else can do—those are my trophies now.” When I asked Justine to comment on some of the things that make cat grooming more enjoyable for her than dog grooming, she said, “Some of the best things about being cats–only are no black nails, no plucking ear hair, no shaving faces, pads or poodle feet, and nothing over 35 pounds. And, when it rains, they don’t come in covered in mud because they come in carriers. “Additionally, cat owners tend to be more appreciative than dog owners, and will flat out tell you if their cat is a butthead. Cats really aren’t that bad; they just have a bad reputation. That’s okay because it helps me charge more for a cat than I could for

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

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things about being cats–only are no black nails, no plucking ear hair, no shaving faces, pads or poodle feet, and nothing over 35 pounds.”

a dog,” Justine concludes. Then, I spoke to Aubrey Bird, who is the owner–operator of The Little Bird Stop. She also began her career grooming dogs. “When I was a new groomer, I worked at a corporate salon,” shares Aubrey. “I would often help the cat groomers with difficult felines. The more seasoned groomers encouraged me to start grooming cats. “My favorite thing about grooming cats is getting to know all their individual personalities. It’s also nice how much the owners appreciate me. They’re just so happy to find someone to help their kitty.” Since Aubrey has groomed both dogs and cats, I asked her if she used a similar technique for both of them. “I have found that cat grooming is very different from grooming

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“I’m able to charge a premium price because I offer a service with very little competition, which helps me plan for growth, retirement and not living paycheck to paycheck.” Lynn Paolillo, CFMG dogs,” Aubrey said. “In dog grooming, the dynamic is more you are in charge and the dog listens to you. This isn’t true for every dog, but for the most part, dogs are more eager to please and will follow your direction or lead. “With cats,” Aubrey continues, “I feel more like we’re working together. It’s a compromise. You have to work within the cat’s comfort zone. Never force a service on a cat who

can’t tolerate it. The energy of the groomer can drastically affect the cat too. It is so important to stay calm and confident when handling a cat.” Lynn Paolillo is a lifelong cat owner, but she started her career by grooming dogs. “I loved seeing the transformation that a groom could do—soft, fluffy hair, happy pup and happy owner,” recalls Lynn. “Soon I thought, ‘why can’t I do the same

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for cats?’ I attended seminars and took classes, then went through the National Cat Groomers Institute’s program and earned my CFMG (Certified Feline Master Groomer) certification in 2011. A year later I joined their team as an instructor and Certifier.” I asked Lynn to comment on why she now prefers to cater to a cats– only clientele. “I love how quiet my salon, Cat Naps Cattery, is,” shared Lynn with a smile of sheer contentment. “I am much less stressed at the end of the day. My body is thankful that I’m not lugging big hairy dogs back and forth. Also, I do a lot of grooming and drying while sitting down.” Then Lynn adds, “In addition, I’m able to charge a premium price because I offer a service with very little competition, which helps me plan for growth, retirement and not living paycheck to paycheck.” When I spoke to Kage Coven of Come Stay and Play Pet Resort, he told me that grooming cats just came natural to him. “Honestly, I have just always felt a deeper connection with cats,” says Kage. “It’s like we have an understanding. I love the feeling of accomplishment and knowing that I’m helping these cats have a safe, healthy, happy life. I also love the rapport I have with my customers because of the work I do.” Kage works on both dogs and

cats, so I asked him if he had any suggestions for working on cats. “Cat grooming is different from dog grooming in many ways. Cats don’t usually stand for their grooms, so you’re dealing with an animal curled up in a ball most of the time,” says Kage. “Trust yourself as an expert. Know what you do well in dog grooming and find a way to translate that into the cat world. If you feel uncomfortable, unsure or afraid—say no. It will not be the end of the world if you turn down a service that you aren’t 100 percent confident can be done safely for the pet (and you).” Sandra Gonyea, owner of Fur Real Mobile Pet Spa has been grooming dogs and cats for 47 years. In 2013 she started her mobile business which catered to dogs under 50 pounds and to cats. She is no longer accepting dogs, and plans to be completely feline exclusive by 2021. I asked Sandra why she decided to go with a cats–only mobile business. “The reasons I chose to go cat exclusive are many,” says Sandra. “In 2017, I took a long, hard look at my business, and asked, ‘How am I different? How can I stand out in the crowd? What services can I offer that other mobiles do not?’ The solution was to focus on my cat grooming services. Good cat groomers were few and far between. But I needed to do it right. Continuing education and certification were the answer for me. “Cats are generally quicker to do and I can charge more,” Sandra continues. “My average ticket has gone up significantly and I work less hours. I especially love how quiet cats are. Yes, you get the occasional talker, but it is nothing compared to a salon full of barking, whining dogs. With no distractions, you can stay focused. It’s amazing how much better you feel without all that noise.

“And finally, I find cat owners to be so much more appreciative of the work I do. Because good cat groomers are hard to find, they tip well, and tell their friends. With education, they rebook and stay on schedule,” Sandra says. I found that not everyone transitions from dog grooming to cats. Deborah Hansen is proof of that. “I actually don’t have any professional dog grooming experience,” says Deborah. “I was a kindergarten teacher. Learning to groom my own cat was on my bucket list. I found out about the National Cat Groomers Institute of America, attended the school session and earned my CFMG (Certified Feline Master Groomer) in March 2013.” Deborah then opened Kitty’s Purrfect Spa, an exclusive house– call cat grooming business. “I have always believed that house–call is the best environment for a feline to be groomed,” says Deborah. “Unfortunately, with COVID–19 and stay–at–home orders, it limits house–call grooming in many places.” I asked Deborah if she could give some suggestions on where to start if you think you might want to groom cats. “For someone who thinks they might be interested in grooming cats, but unsure where to start, I recommend looking into resources like Groomer To Groomer magazine,” shares Deborah. “Then start following people you are curious about on social media. Look for cat grooming– specific groups. Ask questions. Then, when you are ready, invest in a high– quality cat grooming school.” Cat grooming is big business. Although there are more groomers than ever before who specialize in cats, the feline part of the grooming industry is still underserved. Could cat grooming be your next venture? & GroomertoGroomer.com

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SALON SPOTLIGHT

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ats don’t hate water, it’s all about how you introduce them to it,” says Certified Feline Master Groomer (CFMG) LaDean Gordon. “Out of the thousands of cats that we have groomed over the years, we have had maybe five who were truly hydrophobic. The rest just needed proper introduction and reassurance.” LaDean debunks a lot of popular myths about cats in her cat–only grooming salon, Purrocious Styles in Hampton Roads, VA. “There are myths about how cats shouldn’t be groomed because they

‘hate water’ or it’ll strip the natural oils in their fur. But none of that is true. Professional grooming is good for the cat’s hygiene, just like it is for a dog’s. Regular grooming removes dirt and extra hair so the cat doesn’t swallow it and suffer with hair balls. It also prevents matting and pelting of the fur.” According to LaDean, “A lot of owners don’t know cat grooming is a thing until they need it.” She says some pet insurance plans now cover cat grooming, and she has 17 veterinarians in her area who refer cats to her. Purrocious has

over 800 cat clients on their books. When LaDean and her family arrived in Hampton Roads, VA in 2014, she decided to open a cat grooming salon. “I’d owned a cat and dog grooming salon previously, but here, I saw a need for a cat–exclusive salon. There were no cat groomers in this area, but there was a dog grooming salon on practically every other block. And since my daughter Dezarai and I were Certified Feline Master Groomers (CFMG), it was the best thing to do.” She opened Purrocious in a

remodeled home office in 2015. “I wanted to start small and grow the cat clientele.” In 2018, she moved the salon to a commercial building, and in June of this year, completed an expansion project. Now she rents a 2,200 sq. ft. facility complete with a new cat boarding resort. LaDean says many cat owners are nervous when they bring their kitty in for the first time. “The owners are nervous that the cat will have a bad experience. We try to record video of the experience—‘this is what your cat is like in the bath, or in the dryer.’ It helps relieve the owners when they see their cat is calm.” She then walked me through a first–time visit. “The owner brings the cat in and we discuss the various grooming options and services we offer. Then, we do a temperament assessment which starts with looking at the cat in the carrier. Their behavior in the carrier is a good indicator of how comfortable they are and will be with the process. We always inform the owners it could be two to two and a half hours, because if the cat gets nervous, we want to slow down the process and reassure the cat.” They’ll bathe and brush out the cat. Do the nails. If the cat is badly matted and needs shaving, they’ll do that too. “Some cat owners want their cat to have a lion clip so we need to see if the cat will accept it. We have a clipper– tolerance test, but some cats don’t like the vibration on the skin. Sometimes we can work up to it over time. Cat grooming is based on trust and respect. We respect the cat’s boundaries, and most get better with each groom as you build trust,” LaDean says. Speaking of boundaries, it’s no secret to many pet professionals that cats prefer a dog–free environment. Even if the cat gets along with the family dog, that’s “their”

In 2018, she moved the salon to a commercial building, and in June of this year, completed an expansion project. Now she rents a 2,200 sq. ft. facility complete with a new cat boarding resort.

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

LaDean’s younger daughter, 13–year– old Tabetha, recently became the world’s youngest CFMG, passing her final practical exams through the National Cat Groomers Institute just this August.

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dog. Strange dog smells and barking are a completely different matter and they stress the cat out. LaDean adds, “The risk of injury to both cat and groomer are higher when the cat is stressed. You need to be able to read cat body language. Some dog groomers treat cats as though they’re dogs because they’re not trained to groom cats.” She’s a stickler for safety, health and education. “We’re certified in pet CPR and we’re certified Fear Free to facilitate a positive experience. We’re also certified by Iv San Bernard for healthy skin and coat.” Most recently, she and her daughters were COVID–Certified through MOEGO pet software. LaDean’s younger daughter, 13– year–old Tabetha, recently became the world’s youngest CFMG, passing her final practical exams through the National Cat Groomers Institute just this August. Besides her obvious passion for cat grooming, LaDean has a message for other pet groomers: “We need cat groomers. There are less than 500 cat groomers in the whole world, and millions of cats. Cat grooming is so rewarding. If you love cats and it’s something you feel like you can do compassionately, then invest in the training. It’s amazing. It makes such a difference to the cats.” &

BUT WHY?

by Jonathan David

into

I’ve always been more of a dog person than a cat person. While I like cats, I had this idea that felines weren’t as smart, affectionate or trainable as dogs. It wasn’t until I added a cat to my family that I discovered that I was flat out wrong.

even years ago, a beautiful little kitten entered my life and my heart—and changed everything that I thought I knew about cats and how to deal with them. It’s been an interesting journey learning about cat behavior and how to approach training and grooming a cat versus a dog, but I learned along the way that you have to change the way you approach the situation. Dealing with cats takes a very different mindset than dealing with dogs. But why is it so different?

To answer that question, one needs to understand the history of cat domestication in comparison to how long dogs have been a part of our lives. It’s estimated that dogs have been human companions for somewhere between 20,000 and 40,000 years, whereas cats have been domesticated for only about 8,000 years. It’s believed that both began their relationship with early man by way of wild ancestors learning that living near humans gave opportunities to scavenge food, and could provide shelter and safety from

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other predators. As the humans and dogs formed trusting relationships, the journey of selective breeding for loyalty, trainability and specific traits began, resulting in the variety of breeds and types that we know today. Dogs were selectively bred to perform various tasks such as guarding, hunting and working, or simply for companionship. Cats were a bit different in their affinity with humans. It’s believed that about 8,000 years ago, cats likely self–domesticated by hanging around

It’s believed that about 8,000 years ago, cats likely self–domesticated by hanging around farming communities and settled into a mutually beneficial relationship with humans. farming communities and settled into a mutually beneficial relationship with humans. With their keen hunting skills, they provided rodent control while their human counterparts provided food, safety and shelter. Over time, not much has changed with cats other than color, coat types and slight physical traits. Cats have served primarily as pest patrol and companions, therefore very little has changed with regard to physical structure and appearance. Whereas dogs have been selectively bred to perform so many different tasks, their GBfall-2020-Oct-GroomersBest.pdf 1 9/14/2020 size, structure, coats and tempera-

ments have changed so greatly over time, which has made dogs more easily trained and useful to humans. Because of this history, another interesting fact about cats versus dogs is that because dogs have had such vast physical changes over a longer period of time, it takes many generations of selective breeding to create a new breed. The variety of DNA makes creating desired physical attributes a longer and more difficult process than cats. Since cats have not changed all that much through time, new breeds are able to be established within a 4:41:07 fewPMgenerations, as compared to the

decades it can take for a dog breed to become established. But even with these established breeds in the cat world, cats across the board remain more similar to one another in their behaviors than dogs, and cats have retained much more of their instincts and behaviors of their wild ancestors. For this reason, one has to approach training cats from a very different mindset. In short, dogs perform for us because it pleases them to make their humans happy, whereas cats perform for us to benefit themselves, in most cases. When I brought my Abyssinian

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cat, Abyna, into my family, I had done my research. I wanted a cat that was the most “doglike” that I could find. I knew that I wanted a cat that would tolerate bathing and brushing to reduce shedding, and I wanted a cat that would allow me to fuss with her without her fighting me. This is the approach that we, as groomers, need to employ when we take on kitty clients. Early conditioning is key to a cat tolerating the grooming process. I started bathing my kitten weekly when she was 12 weeks old. I always trimmed her nails before the bath to avoid injury to myself, and I made it a positive experience—even though I’m convinced she thought I was trying to drown her. The one thing I learned with cats is that you really can’t dominate them. This is a recipe for an angry cat that will fight until you’re either bleeding or bitten. I always used light flowing water, I massaged her and talked to her softly, and after the bath, I wrapped her in a warm towel and tried to towel–dry her as much as I could before the blow dry. I never used a high velocity dryer in the beginning, always a light stream of air, and I used the towel to keep her “swaddled” to avoid being scratched. I was surprised to find that, rather quickly, she became quite content with this process and each bath got easier. If you groom cats, it’s always best if you can start them early and repeat the process frequently because kittens can become conditioned to things more easily than an adult cat. And where a dog may respond to corrections or even a simple “no,” a cat will not. Keeping a calm demeanor and using a gentle touch goes much GroomertoGroomer.com

further with both dogs and cats, but especially cats. Another thing to consider is that many cats we encounter have not been conditioned to accept grooming from an early age. The experience of coming to a salon with dogs barking, dryers blowing and strange people handling them can put a cat into a very frightened state of mind, and put them on the defensive. A good idea for those of you that groom cats is to have a specific day or half day set aside exclusively for cats. This gives you the opportunity to create a more relaxed and calm environment for the cats, and a calmer cat is always easier to deal with. Sometimes the assistance of another groomer may be required to help hold the cat in order to avoid injury to both the cat and the groomer. There are also many products available for groomers to use to aid in the safe restraint of cats during grooming. With that being said, not all cats are candidates for grooming. Some that may have been feral or have had a negative grooming history may need special equipment, or possibly need to be groomed under the supervision of a veterinarian. As far as training a cat, the approach is very different than that of a dog. Training a cat is about learning how to sway them rather than trying to dominate them. It’s very similar to being in a relationship—you get much further being sweet than you do being sour. I apply the same philosophy when grooming cats. Cats can be frustrating and even scary to groom at times, but with some patience and a calm approach you can turn those tigers into purrfect pets! &

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Backup Plan ? WHAT’S YOUR

Groomers are some of the fiercest and most resilient workforce in the world

today. But this ability to maneuver through one of the nation’s most hazardous professions (and make it look easy, most days) often comes at a cost.

roomers begin to believe that they are invincible, and don’t always have plans in place for when the worst events that life can bring upon us occur. When the wheel of destiny chooses a groomer for its recipient—illness, injury, bad luck, financial hardship, etc.—this workforce will often rally and support one another. GoFundMe pages abound for groomers in trouble. This industry is comprised of generous souls who come to the aid of one another over and over again. Who reading this hasn’t offered financial assistance (even when we barely could afford it) to another pet professional?

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

But what if there are other plans you can put into place to protect yourself? The pet grooming industry is moving forward at light speed these days, and as we persevere toward becoming a unified, professional workforce, this comes with responsibility and adjustment to our old thought and behavior patterns, as well as learning to navigate new territory as professionals. Since life can send even the most prepared professional a curve ball when we least expect it, none of these are more important than entering the realm of “Backup Plans.” Injury and Illness are worst-

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case scenario, but perhaps the most common a groomer may face. Being injured on the job or falling ill can range from a short time period to a lengthy absence from the workplace. The collateral damage of this scenario comes in several flavors—all equally devastating. In my time in the industry, I have seen groomers lose their housing and their entire life fall apart from missing a few days of work. I have also seen groomers who were suddenly faced with debilitating illness or injury, requiring months of recovery. Each scenario is equally devastating and comes at a price to the people involved.

You work in one of the most dangerous professions in the United States— you simply must have access to good health care when and if you need it.

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When planning for this scenario, the first wave of defense is to secure and maintain good health insurance coverage. You work in one of the most dangerous professions in the United States—you simply must have access to good health care when and if you need it. Many groomers immediately assume this is a dream; however, it is both necessary and responsible for you to find a way to afford health insurance. Make it a priority. Options abound, from individual care policies to employer-supplemented plans. Plainly put, this is a luxury that you cannot afford to go without. Employers should be examining their business models to prioritize this for employees, whether it’s adjusting pricing, profit margins, staffing or their entire business infrastructure. Every pet professional needs to step up on this one and prioritize your health and wellbeing. When injury or illness strikes, this is the first wave of protection. Disability insurance is a viable option, and while an expensive luxury, those who need to invoke its benefits are grateful to have it. The next backup plan sounds as if it comes from your grandparents. (They were most likely very wise, and we should all be listening to them.) Maintaining a healthy savings account will support every worst-case scenario you will experience. From time off work to mandated closures such as many pet professionals recently experienced, maintaining a safety net of savings to fall back upon ensures that you are prepared for most scenarios. I witnessed countless stories of groomers and grooming salons during the COVID-19 shutdowns who willfully defied their local and state government mandates and continued operations due to financial strains. Money is no excuse to operate illegally. Your lack of planning does not consti-

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tute a free pass to break the law. Sorry if this one strikes a nerve, but it needs to be repeated. Whether healthy savings for you is one week of pay set aside or six months or more, you have a responsibility as a professional to protect yourself and your business. We are all in this industry together, and our movement toward professionalism is happening as a collective. More and more, due to the lucrative wages associated with the profession, I am meeting grooming professionals who are the primary breadwinners in their household. Groomers are supporting children, partners, car payments, keeping their businesses open and facing stress at a higher rate than ever before. These

adjustments are difficult to make when you are already financially strained. This can be facilitated with learning to follow a budget (remember to include health insurance) and learning to practice restraint. I write this from a very personal point of view. Together, with an amazing family infrastructure, I am blessed to operate multiple highly successful grooming salons. When one of my family members was recently and suddenly stricken with a life-changing illness, everyone around me struggled to maneuver to “make it work”. Having health insurance has been critically important to ensure that she receives the care she needs to be able to recover. When she will walk back into a grooming salon is unclear

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at this point. However, because the plans above are in place, everyone can immediately focus on healing and the future. I can only imagine how this could have gone differently if there had not been health benefits, access to immediate and top-notch medical care, and most of all, if she had not been able to maintain the financial responsibilities on her plate. While this is a cautionary tale, it is repeated daily in the lives of groomers. I am advocating that we all begin with self-care and move toward having the plans and programs in place that we need to protect ourselves from hardship. Having a backup plan will ensure your professional journey continues toward being the invincible, incredible groomer that you are. &

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CAT BREEDS,

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In the dog world, most owners know that they have a black Lab, a white Poodle, a multipoo or a mutt. Yet when it comes to cats, most owners give a blank stare when asked what kind of cat they have.

uch of our dog breed knowledge comes from the American Kennel Club (AKC). While most dog owners do not have purebred dogs, the AKC gives us the words we need to describe dogs. We can say an owner has a Lab, Labradoodle or a Lab mix. All those words describe the breed of dog.

In the cat world, there are two organizations that promote the wellbeing of all cats while focusing on the promotion and improvement of recognized breeds. These organizations

give us the words we need to describe the cats we groom. The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) was founded in 1906. Currently, the CFA recognizes 45 breeds of cats, of which 42 are eligible to compete. The second organization is The International Cat Association (TICA) that was founded in 1979. TICA currently recognizes 71 breeds with an additional six breeds being considered for recognition. Both organizations also acknowledge a household pet category. The more common purebred cats my grooming business grooms are Persians, Exotics, Maine Coons, Scottish

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

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RECOGNIZED CAT BREEDS

Folds, Ragdolls, Siamese and Turkish Vans. In my area, other purebred cats that are groomed include the British Short Hair, LaPerm, Russian Blue, Norwegian Forest Cat and Manx. While some owners have purebred cats, and other owners have cats that highly resemble the purebred version, many owners “just have a cat.” We categorize these cats by the length of their coat. When it comes to mixed–breed cats, we call the breed Domestic Short hair (DSH) or Domestic Long hair (DLH). After you know the breed of cat that the owner has presented to you,

Out of the 45 recognized breeds by the CFA, there are eight main colors of cat coats: the next identifiers used are the color and pattern.

CAT COAT COLORS Out of the 45 recognized breeds by the CFA, there are eight main colors of cat coats: black, chocolate, cinnamon, red, blue, lilac, fawn and cream. Cats with an orange appearance are classified as red and gray–colored cats are called blue. The

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

black

chocolate

cinnamon

red

blue

lilac

fawn

cream

unique color of ruddy is reserved for the Abyssinian. Ebony, chestnut and tawny are colors unique to the Octicat and Oriental breeds. An important tidbit for groomers is that the diluted colors (blue, lilac, fawn and cream) tend to have a more cottony coat which has a higher chance of matting than the dominate coat colors do. These coat colors do need a shorter grooming schedule to

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prevent matting.

CAT PATTERNS This is where most owners seem to get confused. Tabby is a pattern in the coat, not a breed. Cats can have one of four tabby patterns. When you can see an “M”–shaped marking on the forehead of a cat and/or narrow stripes on the cat’s face, they have a tabby pattern.

The four tabby patterns include: MACKEREL–NARROW STRIPES RUN ALMOST PARALLEL DOWN THE SIDE OF THE CAT’S BODY CLASSIC–CATS THAT APPEAR TO HAVE A “BULL’S EYE” ON THE SIDE OF THEIR BODY TICKED–CATS THAT HAVE NO SPOTS OR STRIPES BUT HAVE THE TABBY MARKINGS ON THE FACE SPOTTED–THE TABBY PATTERN THAT HAS SPOTS COVERING THE CAT’S BODY

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

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The four tabby patterns include, Mackerel, which have narrow stripes that run almost parallel down the side of the cat’s body; Classic, which are the cats that appear to have a “bull’s eye” on the side of their body; Spotted, which is the tabby pattern that has spots covering the cat’s body; and Ticked, which are cats that have no spots or stripes but have the tabby markings on the face. When a tabby–patterned cat has multiple colors on their coat, we add the word “patched” to the tabby pattern. Cats can also come in solid colors. But when you are looking at a solid–colored cat, look closely. After a bath and in direct sunlight many of these cats’ tabby markings will be visible. These faint tabby markings are called shadowing and are a result of the tabby gene not being fully blocked. Cats that have a bit of white are always identified by their main color and “with white” and are officially categorized on a gradient scale. You may be looking at a blue with white or a red with white cat color pattern. A tuxedo cat would be considered black with white bicolor, usually about grade four on the gradient scale. Any two–colored cat is also referred to as a bicolor. The color referred to as “smoked” are cats with solid black or blue coats with white roots. There are also silver– shaded cats that have black tips on a white coat, and golden–shaded cats that have a cream coat tipped with black. Multicolored cats are also a category of patterns. The tortie (tortoiseshell) is a cat with a mixture of black, red and cream colors on the coat. A diluted tortie is a blue and cream–colored cat. The calico–patterned cat is a cat with the coat color combination of black, red and white. Diluted calico cats have coats that are a mixture of blue, cream and white. Many cat owners have pointed cats. The most common breeds for the

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Breeds, colors and patterns can get very confusing. The key to correctly describing the cat in front of you is to recognize the breed, then describe the color and pattern the cat most resembles. pointed cat pattern tend to be Persians, Himalayans, Siamese, Scottish Folds and Exotics. Many domestic short– and long–hair cats are also pointed. The pointed pattern can be seen on the ears, feet, face and tail. Points are simply a different color from the color on the cat’s body. Points on cats are identified by the following colors and patterns: seal, blue, chocolate, flame, lilac, cream, tortie (black and red) and lynx (tabby markings on points).

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

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So, what kind of cat does your grooming client have? They may have a Flame Point Persian, a Seal Point Siamese, a Russian Blue, a Lilac Lynx Point DSH, a Silver Shaded Persian, a Brown Mackerel Exotic, etc. Breeds, colors and patterns can get very confusing. The key to correctly describing the cat in front of you is to recognize the breed, then describe the color and pattern the cat most resembles. While it can be overwhelming, this knowledge impresses cat owners while making you an expert in your field. Spending the time needed to master breeds, colors and patterns will not only build your reputation as a cat groomer, but also build trust, respect and a positive relationship with your feline grooming clients. For specific breed standards, colors and pattern information, visit the CFA (https://cfa.org) or TICA (https://tica. org) website. &

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BEFORE

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E by Lynn Paolillo e FIG. 1

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he Dino trim is a popular request to add a bit of style to a traditional Lion Cut. While not an option for every cat, the Dino Trim can be a fun design with a lot of variations to play with. The first step is to determine if this cat is a good candidate for a styled Lion Cut. This shouldn’t be a trim that is promised on a first visit to your salon, and instead should be saved for cats that are relaxed while lying on the table. The cat should also be patient as this style will add a bit of extra time to the appointment, depending on how fancy you want to be.

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Fig. 1) After the nails have been trimmed and the cat assessed for any matted areas or problems, use a clipper with #10 blade and start shaving long swipes on either side of the spine to set a wide mohawk that connects down the back to the cat’s tail. Be generous to leave extra hair as you can always shave more, but once it’s gone, you can’t put it back! Fig. 2) Once the mohawk is set, shave the rest of the cat into a traditional Lion Cut. If the cat is comfortable on the table, then gently roll the cat side to side in order to access the sides around each leg, leaving a “boot”

FIG. 2

ending at the elbow of the front leg and just above the hock bone on the back leg. Finish up the belly, rear end and chest by either rolling the cat fully onto one side or gently laying the cat on your lap to access those areas. Fig. 3) Once the rest of the shaving is done, clean up the sides of

FIG. 3

the mohawk by shaving in reverse with a #10 blade so the lines are crisp and even. Also stand directly behind the cat to be sure the mohawk is centered in the middle of the back. Fig. 4) Comb the hair from neck to tail so it lays flat and smooth. Take a 5-in-1 clipper and set the

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FIG. 4

blade on a #30 setting. Flip the clipper upside down and gently press the blade straight down into the hair from the top. Use a comb as a guide to create straight, even lines. The #30 setting is very responsive and will cut the hair short, so a light touch is all that is needed.

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FIG. 5

Fig. 5) Continue using the clipper upside down to set large, even squares the length of the mohawk. Then, change the clipper setting back to a #10 blade and shave flat against the skin to create the desired shape into each square. In this design, the squares are shaved into triangles to give us

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

FIG. 6

thick spikes for the Dino look. Fig. 6) After the triangles along the back are set, shave off the tip of each one to create a space approximately 1/4-1/2” between each spike. Fig. 7) If the cat is still being patient, continue the same spaced shaving (with the upside down #30 blade)

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FIG. 7

down the length of the tail. Remember to switch the blade back to a #10 to do any shaving against the skin to create the finished shape. Fig. 8) When the tail is finished, run a comb against the growth of the hair from the base of the tail towards the neck. You can then clean up the

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 10 • October 2020

tops of the spikes lightly with thinning shears or by skimming with your clippers to create the desired shape. Fig. 9) After the bath and blow dry, again comb the spikes against the growth of the hair to fluff them up to take any pictures or display the finished groom for the cat’s owner. I don’t recommend using any sprays or products in the cat’s hair unless it will be washed out after quick pictures or a competition submission.

FIG. 8

And voila! The thick, short hair of this cat gives a nice, full look to the spikes. Feel free to play with shapes and spacing of the spikes to get different designs. And, if you aren’t happy with it—you can just shave it off! &

FIG. 9

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As one of only a few hundred Certified Feline Master Groomers worldwide, Lynn Paolillo does a lot more than just groom for the kitty population of central New Jersey. With more than 13 years of grooming experience, she’s obsessed with improving the lives of both cats and their owners by creating a positive relationship through grooming. Based in Hamilton, NJ, her cat-only business, Cat Naps Cattery, provides a quiet, calm (and bark-free) environment for cats of all ages and breeds. Lynn also travels and teaches cat grooming around the U.S. at trade show events, private workshops and seminars as a Certifier and Instructor for the National Cat Groomers Institute.

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Wisdom and Grace Will all your worries add a single moment to your life?

Matthew 6:27 Living Bible

Meet Andis Educator

Nicole Kallish, manager of education at Andis Company, is a Certified Master Groomer, industry speaker and judge. She was formerly a liaison for Groom Team USA. She owns three miniature Poodles and is showing one, Sofia, in AKC Conformation and another, Pippa, in other various AKC events.

Find Her at Upcoming Grooming Shows

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