How much does cat grooming cost?

Cat grooming costs $40 to $120 per session. A full groom (bath, haircut, nails, ears) costs $50–$120. A lion cut costs $60–$120. Bath and brush costs $40–$90. Nail trims cost $15–$25. Long-haired breeds cost more due to the extra time needed for brushing and dematting.

How often should I get my cat groomed?

Short-haired cats need grooming every 8–12 weeks. Long-haired cats (Persian, Maine Coon) need grooming every 4–8 weeks to prevent matting. Senior cats who can't groom themselves may need grooming every 4–6 weeks. Nail trims should be done every 4–6 weeks for all cats.

What is a lion cut for cats?

A lion cut is a full body shave that leaves fur only on the head, neck mane, tail tip, and four "boots" on the legs. It's popular for severely matted long-haired cats and for summer comfort. A lion cut costs $60–$120. See cat lion cut cost for details. Lion cuts are purely cosmetic — cats don't "need" them, but they prevent matting in long-haired breeds.

Can I take my cat to any groomer?

Not all dog groomers accept cats. Look for groomers who specifically advertise cat grooming — they have the training and equipment to handle cats safely. Cats require different handling techniques than dogs, and many groomers aren't comfortable with cats. A cat-specific groomer or mobile groomer is usually your best bet.

Cat Grooming Cost | Price Guide 2026

Cat grooming is often overlooked but essential for long-haired breeds and senior cats who can't groom themselves. While cats are self-grooming, they can develop mats, hairballs, overgrown nails, and skin conditions without help. Professional cat groomers are specially trained to handle cats safely — many dogs groomers don't accept cats.

The average cost of cat grooming is $40 to $120 per session, with a national average of $60–$80 for a full groom.

Cat Grooming Cost by Service

Service	Cost Range	Average	What's Included
Full groom (bath + haircut)	$50–$120	$80	Bath, blow dry, haircut, nail trim, ear cleaning
Lion cut	$60–$120	$90	Full body shave leaving head, tail, and boots
Bath & brush (short hair)	$40–$70	$55	Bath, blow dry, brush out, nail trim
Bath & brush (long hair)	$50–$90	$70	Bath, blow dry, brush, demat check, nail trim
Nail trim only	$15–$25	$20	Front and back nail clipping
Sanitary trim	$15–$30	$20	Trim around rear and belly for hygiene
Dematting (add-on)	$20–$80	$40	Removes mats — severe matting may require shave
Ear cleaning	$10–$20	$15	Ears cleaned and checked for mites
Teddy bear cut	$70–$110	$90	Full body trim to uniform short length, rounded face
Flea bath (add-on)	$15–$30	$20	Medicated flea/tick shampoo

Cat Grooming Cost by Coat Type

Coat Type	Examples	Full Groom	Bath & Brush	Frequency
Short hair	Tabby, Siamese, Bengal	$40–$70	$35–$55	Every 8–12 weeks
Medium hair	American Shorthair, Russian Blue	$50–$80	$40–$65	Every 8–10 weeks
Long hair	Persian, Maine Coon, Ragdoll	$60–$120	$50–$90	Every 4–8 weeks
Curly/wavy	Devon Rex, Cornish Rex	$40–$70	$35–$55	Every 8–12 weeks
Hairless	Sphynx	$35–$60	$30–$50	Every 4–6 weeks (skin needs regular bathing)

Where to Get Cat Grooming

Source	Cost	Notes
Cat-specific groomer	$50–$120	Specializes in cats — best option for anxious cats
PetSmart (cat grooming)	$40–$90	Limited locations — not all stores groom cats
Mobile cat groomer	$70–$150	Comes to your home — less stressful for cats
Vet clinic grooming	$50–$130	Good for medical grooming (sedated groom for severe matting)
Self-serve (not recommended)	$15–$30	Most cats won't tolerate DIY at a self-serve tub