Frequently Asked Questions

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About Our Services

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Q: What is house call cat grooming?

A: House call cat grooming means I come directly to your home to groom your cat. There's no need to transport your pet to a salon or deal with stressful car rides. I bring all my professional equipment and provide the same high-quality grooming service in the comfort and safety of your own home.

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Q: What areas do you serve? 

A: I'm based in Lewiston, ID and serve the surrounding areas. Travel fees apply: $25 for the first 20 miles from Lewiston, and $15 for each additional 20 miles. Contact me to confirm we service your area!

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Q: What grooming services do you offer?

A: I specialize in:

• Lion Cut Groom ($80) - Body shaved short with fur left on head, paws, and tail tip

• Kitten Cut ($85) - An even, soft coat length all over

• Pelting or Very Heavy Matting Removal ($25 additional charge) All services include nail trimming, ear cleaning, and sanitary trim.

• Nail trim (stand-alone)- $10

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Q: How long does a grooming session take?

A: Most grooming sessions take between 60-90 minutes, depending on your cat's coat condition, temperament, and the specific service. Heavily matted cats may require additional time.

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Q: What is a lion cut and why would my cat need one?

A: A lion cut involves shaving your cat's body fur short while leaving a mane around the head, fur on the paws, and a puff at the end of the tail. It's ideal for:

• Cats with severe matting that can't be brushed out

• Long-haired cats prone to matting

• Keeping cats cool in hot weather

• Reducing shedding around the home

• Cats with skin conditions requiring easier access for treatment

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Booking & Scheduling

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Q: How do I schedule an appointment?

A: Simply call or text me at 208-413-1164 or email mybestlittlecathouse@gmail.com. We'll discuss your cat's needs, schedule a convenient time, and answer any questions you may have.

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Q: How far in advance should I book?

A: I recommend booking at least 1-2 weeks in advance, especially during busy seasons (spring and summer). However, I do our best to accommodate urgent situations like severe matting.

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Q: Do you offer same-day appointments?

A: While I try to accommodate last-minute requests when possible, same-day appointments are subject to availability. Contact us and we'll do our best to help!

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Q: What if I need to reschedule or cancel?

A: I understand that things come up! Please give me at least 24 hours notice if you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment. This allows me to offer the time slot to another client.

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Preparing for Your Appointment

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Q: How should I prepare my home for the grooming appointment?

A: I need a quiet, well-lit space with access to electricity and water (bathroom or kitchen works great). Please:

• Clear a counter or table space where we can work

• Keep other pets in a separate room

• Minimize household noise and activity

• Have your cat accessible (not hiding under furniture)

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Q: Should I feed my cat before the appointment?

A: I recommend feeding your cat at least 2-3 hours before the appointment, not right before. A full stomach can cause discomfort during grooming.

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Q: What if my cat is hiding and won't come out?

A: Try to locate your cat before our arrival time. If your cat is particularly shy, confine them to a smaller room (like a bathroom or bedroom) an hour before the appointment. This makes it easier and less stressful for everyone.

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Q: Do I need to be home during the grooming?

A: Yes, I require a responsible adult to be home during the entire grooming session for your cat's safety and comfort.

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About Your Cat's Grooming

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Q: Is grooming stressful for cats?

A: Every cat is different, but mobile grooming is typically much less stressful than salon grooming because:

• Your cat stays in their familiar environment

• No car ride or unfamiliar smells

• No other animals around

• One-on-one attention throughout the entire process. I work at your cat's pace and use gentle, patient techniques.

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Q: What if my cat is aggressive or difficult to handle?

A: I have experience with cats of all temperaments! I use gentle handling techniques and patience. However, if your cat becomes too stressed or aggressive for safe grooming, I may need to stop the session. In extreme cases, I can recommend consulting with your veterinarian about sedation options for future grooming.

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Q: Will grooming hurt my cat?

A: When done properly by a professional, grooming should not hurt your cat. I use sharp, well-maintained tools and gentle techniques. Cats with severe matting may have sensitive skin underneath, which I handle with extra care.

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Q: My cat has never been groomed before. Will they be okay?

A: First-time grooming can be an adjustment, but most cats do well. We take extra time with nervous or first-time clients, working slowly and offering breaks as needed. The at-home environment helps significantly with reducing stress.

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Q: How often should my cat be groomed?

A: It depends on your cat's coat type:

• Long-haired cats: Every 6-12 weeks

• Short-haired cats: Every 3-6 months or as needed

• Cats prone to matting: Every 6-8 weeks.  Regular grooming prevents matting and keeps your cat comfortable!

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Special Concerns

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Q: Can you groom senior cats?

A: Absolutely! Senior cats often benefit greatly from professional grooming as they may have difficulty grooming themselves. We take extra care with older cats, providing more breaks and being mindful of arthritis or other health conditions.

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Q: What if my cat has health issues?

A: Please inform me of any health conditions when booking. I can groom most cats with health issues, but some conditions may require veterinary clearance first. I'll work with you and your vet to ensure safe grooming.

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Q: My cat is very matted. Can you help?

A: Yes! Severe matting is one of our specialties. Matting can be painful and cause skin issues, so it's important to address it promptly. Depending on the severity, we may need to shave the affected areas. The matting removal service is an additional $25.

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Q: Do you groom kittens?

A: I can groom kittens, typically starting around 4-6 months of age. Early grooming experiences help kittens become comfortable with the process for life. I use extra gentle techniques and keep sessions short for young cats.

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Q: Can you groom cats with fleas?

A: If your cat has fleas, please treat them before the grooming appointment. I cannot groom cats with active flea infestations as it can spread to our equipment and other clients.

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Payment & Pricing

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Q: What forms of payment do you accept?

A: I accept cash, credit cards, Venmo, and Zelle. Payment is due at the time of service.

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Q: Are there any additional fees I should know about?

A: Yes, travel fees apply based on distance:

• First 20 miles from Lewiston: $25

• Each additional 20 miles: $15 The matting removal service adds $25 if your cat has severe matting or pelting.

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Q: Do you offer discounts for multiple cats?

A: Contact me to discuss pricing for multiple cats in the same household. I'm happy to work with you around pricing!

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Q: Is tipping expected?

A: Tips are never expected but always appreciated if you're happy with the service!

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After the Grooming

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Q: How will my cat act after grooming?

A: Most cats are relieved and more comfortable after grooming, especially if they were matted. Some cats may:

• Seem more energetic and playful

• Groom themselves more

• Act a bit shy or hide briefly (this is normal)

• Feel cooler and lighter after a lion cut

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Q: My cat seems itchy after grooming. Is this normal?

A: Mild itchiness for a day or two can be normal as your cat adjusts to their new haircut. However, if you notice excessive scratching, redness, or any signs of irritation, please contact us or your veterinarian.

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Q: How do I maintain my cat's coat between grooming appointments?

A: Regular brushing is key! For long-haired cats, brush at least 2-3 times per week. Short-haired cats benefit from weekly brushing. This prevents matting and reduces shedding in your home.

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Q: When should I schedule the next grooming?

A: I'll provide recommendations based on your cat's coat type and condition. Generally, schedule your next appointment for 6-12 weeks out to maintain optimal coat health.

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Still Have Questions?

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Give me a call or text at 208-413-1164 or email mybestlittlecathouse@gmail.com. We're here to help and happy to discuss your cat's specific grooming needs!

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