Cats are known for keeping themselves clean, but that doesn’t mean they never need professional grooming.
Long-haired breeds, elderly cats and cats with matted fur often benefit from regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and comfortable.
So, how much does cat grooming cost in 2026?
Across the UK, professional cat grooming typically costs between £40 and £120, depending on your cat’s breed, coat condition and the services included.
Here’s everything you need to know before booking.
Cat grooming costs at a glance
| Service | Estimated 2026 cost |
|---|---|
| Basic grooming | £40–£60 |
| Full grooming | £60–£90 |
| Long-haired breed grooming | £70–£120 |
| Lion cut | £70–£130 |
| Nail trimming | £10–£20 |
| De-matting | £20–£60 extra |
These are average UK prices and may vary depending on your location and your cat’s temperament.
What affects the cost?
Breed
Some breeds require much more grooming than others.
Examples include:
- Persian
- Maine Coon
- Ragdoll
- British Longhair
- Norwegian Forest Cat
Short-haired cats generally require less time and therefore cost less.
Coat condition
If your cat has severe matting or tangled fur, grooming can take considerably longer.
Some groomers charge an additional fee for de-matting because it requires extra time and care.
Temperament
Calm cats are generally easier to groom.
Cats that become anxious, aggressive or difficult to handle may require longer appointments, which can affect the price.
Grooming package
Basic grooming is cheaper than a full grooming session.
Additional treatments naturally increase the overall cost.
What’s usually included?
A full cat grooming session often includes:
✔ Brushing and de-shedding
✔ Bath (where appropriate)
✔ Blow dry
✔ Coat trimming
✔ Nail clipping
✔ Ear cleaning
✔ Eye area tidy
Some groomers also offer sanitary trims for long-haired cats.
How long does cat grooming take?
Typical appointment times are:
| Service | Approximate time |
|---|---|
| Basic groom | 45–90 minutes |
| Full groom | 1–2 hours |
| Long-haired or matted cat | 2–3 hours |
The appointment may take longer if your cat needs frequent breaks.
Which cats need professional grooming?
Professional grooming is especially helpful for:
- Long-haired breeds
- Elderly cats
- Overweight cats
- Cats that struggle to groom themselves
- Cats with matted coats
- Heavy shedders
Short-haired cats may only need occasional professional grooming if they’re healthy and regularly brushed at home.
How often should cats be groomed?
A general guide is:
| Coat type | Recommended grooming |
|---|---|
| Short-haired cats | Every 3–6 months (or as needed) |
| Medium-haired cats | Every 8–12 weeks |
| Long-haired cats | Every 4–8 weeks |
Regular brushing at home helps reduce knots and loose hair between appointments.
Is professional cat grooming worth it?
For many owners, yes.
Benefits include:
✔ Reduces matting
✔ Helps control shedding
✔ Improves coat condition
✔ Reduces hairballs
✔ Keeps nails at a healthy length
✔ Allows early detection of skin problems
Professional grooming can also make your cat more comfortable, especially if they struggle to groom themselves.
How to save money
Brush your cat regularly
Frequent brushing helps prevent matting and can reduce grooming time.
Book routine appointments
Regular grooming is usually quicker and may help avoid additional charges for severe matting.
Compare local groomers
Before booking, ask:
- What’s included?
- Is bathing included?
- Are nail trims included?
- Is de-matting charged separately?
- Do you have experience with my breed?
Reading genuine customer reviews can help you choose the right groomer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all cats need professional grooming?
No.
Many short-haired cats manage well with regular brushing at home, while long-haired breeds often benefit from professional grooming.
Is it safe to shave a cat?
Only when necessary and ideally carried out by an experienced groomer.
Cats should never be shaved simply because they’re shedding.
How often should long-haired cats be groomed?
Most long-haired breeds benefit from professional grooming every 4–8 weeks, alongside regular brushing at home.
Can grooming help reduce hairballs?
Yes.
Removing loose fur through regular brushing and professional grooming can reduce the amount of hair your cat swallows while grooming.
Final thoughts
Professional grooming can play an important role in keeping your cat healthy, comfortable and free from painful mats.
Whether you own a Persian, Maine Coon or another long-haired breed, regular grooming can improve coat condition and make life much more comfortable for your pet.
Before booking, compare local groomers, read customer reviews and make sure you understand exactly what’s included in the price.
Find a trusted cat groomer
Looking for a professional cat groomer?
Use The Right Guy to compare trusted local cat grooming specialists, read genuine customer reviews and request quotes from experienced groomers near you.
Own a cat grooming business? Create your free business listing on The Right Guy and help more local pet owners discover your services.
Author: manager
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