Cat Care Articles

Welcome to Carolyn’s Cat Care Articles

Whether you’re a lifelong cat lover or simply curious about feline grooming, you’re in the right place. This is where I share the truth behind common myths, offer expert tips, and celebrate the comfort and transformation that come from gentle, in-home grooming. Every cat deserves to feel clean, cared for, and understood.

This page is a new chapter in my journey, and I hope you find joy in the stories, insights, and hard-earned wisdom I’ve gathered over the past two decades as a professional cat groomer in Central, TX.

 5 Myths About Cat Grooming (And Why Saliva Isn’t Soap)

By Carolyn, Founder of Carolyn’s Mobile Cat Grooming in Central, TX  Written 8/3/2025

Most people think cats are self-cleaning. After all, they spend hours licking themselves, right? But here’s the truth: saliva isn’t soap. Grooming isn’t just about beauty—it’s about health, comfort, and care. As a feline grooming specialist with nearly two decades of experience, I’ve heard every myth in the book. Let’s bust a few.

Myth #1: “Cats groom themselves.”

Truth: Cats lick, but they don’t truly clean. Their saliva spreads dander, doesn’t remove grease, and can’t prevent matting or skin infections. While some cats may stay relatively clean with help from their humans, regular grooming—whether at home or professionally—removes buildup, grease, and dirt, and helps keep their coat healthy and comfortable.

Myth #2: “Only long-haired cats need grooming.”

Truth: Grooming isn’t just about fur length—it’s about overall wellbeing. Short-haired and even hairless cats benefit from regular grooming to manage grease, shedding, and skin folds. And for senior cats, overweight cats, or those with health or mobility issues, grooming becomes essential. These cats often struggle to clean themselves effectively, making gentle assistance—whether at home or professionally—a vital part of their care.

Cats Who Need Extra Help

Even if their fur seems “low maintenance,” these cats often need regular grooming:

• Senior cats – may have arthritis or reduced flexibility

• Overweight cats – can’t reach key areas like their back or rear

• Cats with chronic illness – may shed more or have skin sensitivities

• Post-surgical or disabled cats – need help staying clean while healing

• Routine-compromised cats – including those in stressful or transitional homes

Grooming isn’t vanity—it’s dignity. These cats deserve comfort, cleanliness, and care tailored to their needs.

Myth #3: “Cats hate water.”

Truth: Some do—but many don’t. With gentle handling and proper technique, cats can tolerate or even enjoy bathing. The key is trust, timing, and a calm environment. My low-stress, in-home cat grooming approach is designed to keep cats safe, soothed, and respected every step of the way.

Bathing isn’t about forcing—it’s about supporting. Whether it’s degreasing oily coats, removing allergens, or helping senior cats stay fresh, a well-executed bath can be a game-changer.

Cat Bath Tips

• Use warm water and a quiet space

• Fill a basin (not too deep) or the sink and turn the water off before the cat enters the bath

• Avoid the face—use a damp cloth instead

• Towel wrap (Bonus points if the towel is warm, fresh out of the dryer) for comfort and security

• Maintain a calm vibe and soothing environment

• Always follow with praise, cuddling, and treats

Myth #4: “Grooming is just for show cats.”

Truth: Everyday cats deserve care too. Grooming isn’t about ribbons or trophies—it’s about comfort, health, and your connection to each other. Regular grooming improves your cat’s mood, reduces allergens in the home, and helps catch health issues early, like skin conditions or weight changes.

It’s not a luxury—it’s a kindness. And with mobile grooming for everyday cats, that kindness comes right to your door.

“You groom your horse, your dog, your sheep—why not your cat?” ~ Carolyn

Why It Matters

• Health checks during grooming can spot issues early

• Allergy reduction helps sensitive households breathe easier

• Mood boosts from feeling clean and comfortable

• Bonding moments that build trust and routine

Myth #5: “Grooming is traumatic.”

Truth: Not when it’s done right. I specialize in gentle, low-stress grooming that honors each cat’s personality and comfort level. From the moment I arrive, my focus is on creating a calm, respectful experience—one that builds trust, not fear.

Grooming isn’t just about appearance—it’s about transformation. When cats feel safe, they thrive. And that’s the heart of my work: helping cats feel better, inside and out.

What Makes It Stress-Free

• In-home setting with familiar smells and sounds

• Slow, intuitive handling—never rushed

• Respect for boundaries and body language, and health levels

• Tailored techniques for anxious, senior, or sensitive cats

• Follow-up care and communication for peace of mind

Final Thoughts

Cat grooming is still a mystery to many. But once people see the difference it makes—for their cat’s health, their home, and their heart—they never go back.

If you’re curious—even if you don’t have a cat—I invite you to explore. Because every cat deserves to feel clean, comfortable, and cared for. And every person deserves to witness the quiet transformation that happens when a cat feels truly seen.

Ready to give your cat the care they deserve? Start your cats spa journey HERE

“From Kitten to Crone: Nail Care, Scratching, and the most common nail issues in cats."

By Carolyn, Founder of Carolyn’s Mobile Cat Grooming in Central, TX Written 9/4/2025

Cats are fascinating creatures, each with their own unique personalities and needs. As they grow from playful kittens to wise seniors, their nail care and scratching behaviors evolve. Understanding these changes is crucial for providing the best care for our feline friends. In this article, we will explore the different stages of a cat's life, from kittenhood to old age. We will discuss the importance of nail care, the natural instinct to scratch, and some common nail problems you may come across.

Kittens (0–6 months):

Kittens are in a rapid growth phase, and their nails grow fast and are razor-sharp. Early and regular nail trims are essential to build trust and establish a grooming routine. Introducing scratching posts, pads, and toys early on is crucial to encourage healthy scratching behaviors. Using a variety of vertical and horizontal scratchers with different textures can help keep kittens engaged and prevent them from scratching furniture and you.

Typically, kitten nails are very fine and needle-like, making them quite sharp. They grow quickly and can easily get caught in fabrics, your skin, or other materials, which is why regular trims are important. Additionally, having a professional groomer over regularly or taking a class to learn how to properly and safely trim cat nails can ensure that the grooming process is done correctly and safely, reducing stress for both you and your kitten. Cats thrive on routine, so incorporating nail care into their regular schedule will make the process more successful and help build a great relationship and trust with your kitten.

TL;DR:

~Early and regular nail trims build trust and establish a grooming routine.

~Introduce scratching posts and pads and toys early to encourage healthy scratching behaviors.

~Use a variety of scratchers and toys to keep kittens engaged.

~Kitten nails are fine, needle-like, and grow quickly.

~Consider professional grooming or taking a class for proper nail trimming.

~Incorporate nail care into the kitten's routine for success and trust-building.

Young Adults (6 months–5 years):

Young adult cats are active and full of energy. Their scratching behavior is instinctual, serving to stretch muscles, mark territory, and shed nail sheaths. While active cats may wear down their nails naturally, it's often uneven. Typically, at this stage, you may notice that their nails are strong and sharp, with a tendency to grow quickly due to their high activity levels. To support their natural behaviors, place scratchers near their favorite nap spots and entrances. Using catnip, silvervine, or pheromone sprays can attract them to use the scratchers. Routine nail trims are essential to keep doing regularly, as it takes away the fear of the process for the cat if it's just part of their normal life.

TL;DR:

~Scratching is instinctual for stretching muscles, marking territory, and shedding nail sheaths.

~Active cats may wear down nails unevenly.

~Nails are typically strong, sharp, and grow quickly at this stage.

~Place scratchers near favorite nap spots and entrances. Use catnip, silvervine, or pheromone sprays to attract use.

~Routine nail trims make the process less scary for both you and your cat.

Middle Age (5–10 years):

As cats enter middle age, their nail growth may slow, but their flexibility declines. You may notice that their nails start to thicken due to age and health-related issues. Additionally, nail gunk or debris can accumulate around the nails, which can be easily wiped or scraped off. This is also the stage where we see the most ingrown nails, as owners may not be aware that the nails are thickening and that their cats are becoming less effective at sharpening them. Cats at this stage may start to favor soft surfaces and skip scratchers, so it's important to trim their nails regularly and rotate scratcher types to maintain their interest. Reinforcing good scratching behavior with praise, rather than punishment, is beneficial.

TL;DR:

~Nail growth may slow, but flexibility declines.

~Nails may thicken due to age and health-related issues.

~Nail gunk or debris can accumulate and should be cleaned.

~This stage sees the most ingrown nails due to thickening and less effective sharpening.

~Cats may favor soft surfaces and skip scratchers.

~Trim nails regularly and rotate scratcher types to maintain interest.

~Reinforce good scratching behavior with praise, or just trim the nails regularly or have us over to trim them for you.

Seniors (10+ years):

Senior cats face unique challenges as they age. Their nail growth may slow significantly, but their nails can become thicker and more brittle due to age and health-related issues. This stage also sees a higher risk for ingrown nails and pad punctures, as their reduced grooming and scratching behavior make them less effective at maintaining their nails. Senior cats often forgo nail sharpening altogether, which increases their risk of "coinfoot," ingrown nails, and pad punctures. You may notice that their nails accumulate more debris and gunk than before. Providing low, stable scratchers and soft mats for comfort can help encourage gentle scratching and nail maintenance.

Compassionate care is crucial for senior cats. Gentle trims, warm towels, and extra praise can make the grooming process more comfortable and less stressful for them. Regular nail trims or having a professional groomer over can help prevent ingrown nails and ensure their nails are kept at a healthy length. Finally, your vest has solutions for arthritis in cats that can give them much more physical comfort, which means they'll have less pain when trying to use their scratchers.

TL;DR:

~Nail growth may slow, but nails can become thicker and more brittle.

~Higher risk for ingrown nails and pad punctures due to reduced grooming and scratching behavior.

~Senior cats often forgo nail sharpening, increasing the risk of "coin-foot," ingrown nails, and pad punctures.

~Nails may accumulate more debris and gunk.

~Provide low, stable scratchers and soft mats for comfort.

~Regular nail trims or professional grooming can help prevent ingrown nails.

~ Ask your vet about arthritis medication to help with pain and mobility.

Common Nail and Paw Problems in Cats (And How to Prevent Them)

Even the most pampered cats can suffer from painful or overlooked paw issues. As you check your cats' paws regularly, here’s what to watch for—and how to help.

 "Coin-foot"

• Nails curl to the side and don't puncture the paw pad, but still causing limping and chronic pain

• Most common in senior, overweight, or sedentary cats

• Solution: Regular trims every 4 weeks, for every cat.

Ingrown Nails

• Nails curl and puncture the paw pad causing limping, infection, and chronic pain

• Most common in senior, overweight, or sedentary cats

• Solution: Regular trims every 4 weeks, for every cat.

Split or Fractured Nails

• May bleed or cause limping

• Often from rough scratching or catching on fabric

• Solution: Keep nails trimmed and offer safe scratch surfaces

Brittle or Thickened Nails

• Seen in older cats or those with health issues

• May crack, split, or resist trimming

• Solution: regular paw checks, trims.

Embedded Nail Sheaths

• Old nail layers don’t shed properly

• Can trap dirt and cause odor or infection

• Solution: Regular grooming and gentle exfoliation during trims. 

• Easy to remove with your thumbnail.

Nail Bed Infections

• Redness, swelling, or discharge around the nail

• May result from trauma or ingrown nails, embedded nail sheaths or underlying illness.

• Solution: Seek veterinary care and maintain a trim schedule

Keratin Horns

• Hard, horn-like growths from excess keratin buildup

• Often found near nail beds or paw pads

• Can interfere with walking or trap debris

• Solution: Your vet or your cat groomer can gently remove these; monitor for recurrence

Missing Nails

• May result from trauma, infection, or play

• Can expose sensitive tissue and affect gait

• May make traditional litter unsafe

• Solution: Protect the area, monitor for infection, and switch to paper litter until its healed enough

"Pillow-foot" (Plasma Cell Pododermatitis)

• Swollen, soft, or “puffy” paw pads, are typically painful

• May appear bruised or ulcerated

• Often linked to immune response or underlying illness

• Solution: Veterinary care is essential; gentle paw handling during grooming

Super Dry Pads

• Cracked, flaky, or rough paw pads

• Can result from age, dehydration, or indoor flooring

• Solution: Use paw balms (unscented, cat-safe), and offer soft resting surfaces

The Truth About Declawing

Declawing isn’t a nail trim—it’s an amputation. It removes the last bone of each toe, like cutting off your fingers at the knuckle. Cats often suffer long-term pain, behavioral changes, and mobility issues.

Why It’s Harmful:

• Can cause arthritis, litter box avoidance, and biting

• Removes a key part of feline communication and defense

• Often leads to more property damage, not less

Healthy Alternatives:

• Regular nail trims

• Scratch training and enrichment

• Soft nail caps (if tolerated)

• Environmental design: protect furniture with covers, redirect behavior with toys

Want Help Now?

• Book a Nail Day appointment

• Explore Cat Care Articles

• Call or text: 210-446-7024

• Email: scheduling@carolynsmobilecatgrooming.com