Cat grooming is a specialist skill that's quite different from dog grooming.
As with dog grooming, there's no legal requirement to hold any qualification to groom cats professionally in the UK. But cat grooming presents unique challenges that require specific training and understanding of feline behaviour.
Cats can be more difficult to handle than dogs. They're more likely to become stressed, can scratch and bite when frightened, and have different physiology that groomers must understand. Many dog groomers don't offer cat grooming services because they haven't had the specialist training.
Cat grooming isn't simply "dog grooming, but for cats." Felines have different needs and present different challenges:
Cats communicate differently from dogs. A qualified cat groomer understands:
Cat-specific handling techniques are essential for safety—both for the cat and the groomer. Improper handling can cause injury or severe stress that may affect the cat's behaviour long-term.
Cat-specific grooming qualifications are more limited than dog grooming qualifications. The main provider of Ofqual-regulated cat grooming qualifications in the UK is iPET Network.
iPET Network is the primary Ofqual-regulated awarding body for cat grooming qualifications in the UK.
| Qualification | Duration | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Level 3 Award in an Introduction to Cat Grooming | 5 days minimum | Groom minimum 3 cats |
| Level 3 Certificate in Cat Grooming and Introduction to Styling | 10 days minimum | Intermediate level |
| Level 3 Diploma in Cat Grooming and Salon Management | 25 days minimum | Groom minimum 20 cats, 8+ breeds |
| Level 3 Award in Feline Emergency First Aid | 1 day | Cat-specific first aid |
All iPET Network qualifications are practical-based with no written exams. Assessment is through observation and portfolio evidence.
City & Guilds, which offers the most recognised dog grooming qualifications, does not currently offer cat-specific grooming qualifications. Their dog grooming courses (7863) focus on canine grooming only.
Many cat groomers hold both dog and cat grooming qualifications. This combination demonstrates a broad understanding of pet grooming while having specialist feline training. Some training centres offer combined courses that cover both species.
Entry point for cat grooming training. Covers:
Duration: Minimum 5 days practical training
Cost: £1,500-£1,750
This qualification allows groomers to offer basic cat grooming services.
Intermediate qualification. Additional skills include:
Duration: Minimum 10 days practical training
Cost: £2,000-£2,500
The full professional qualification. Covers:
Duration: Minimum 25 days practical training
Cost: £3,500-£4,000
Requirements: Must groom a minimum of 20 cats across at least 8 different breeds
Search our directory for groomers who specialise in cat grooming.
Find Groomers →Fewer training centres offer cat grooming courses compared to dog grooming. The following schools offer specialist cat grooming training:
When choosing a groomer for your cat, these questions can help you find someone with appropriate training:
Cats can become stressed by the presence of dogs. Some groomers offer:
Browse our directory of professional groomers with real reviews from pet owners.
Search Groomers →What qualifications should you look for in a cat groomer?
Things to consider:
Your cat deserves to be groomed by someone who understands feline behaviour and has the skills to keep them calm and safe. While qualifications aren't legally required, they demonstrate that a groomer has invested in learning how to handle cats properly.
There is no legal requirement for cat groomers to hold qualifications in the UK. However, cat grooming requires specialist skills due to feline behaviour and physiology. Reputable cat groomers typically hold iPET Network Level 3 qualifications specifically in cat grooming, demonstrating training in feline handling, stress recognition, and safe grooming techniques.
The iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Cat Grooming and Salon Management is the most comprehensive Ofqual-regulated cat grooming qualification. It requires grooming a minimum of 20 cats across 8 or more breeds and covers advanced styling, lion clips, working with challenging cats, and salon management.
An introduction to cat grooming (Level 3 Award) takes approximately 5 days of practical training. A full Level 3 Diploma requires around 25 days of practical training. Many groomers complete dog grooming qualifications first before specialising in cats, which extends the overall training time.
Cat grooming courses typically cost £1,500-£4,000 depending on the qualification level. An introductory Level 3 Award costs around £1,500-£1,750, a Level 3 Certificate costs £2,000-£2,500, and a full Level 3 Diploma costs £3,500-£4,000. Some providers offer payment plans.
Legally yes, but it's not recommended without specific cat training. Cat grooming requires different skills - feline behaviour differs fundamentally from canine behaviour, cats have thinner skin, and they respond differently to handling and restraint. Many experienced dog groomers choose not to groom cats because they recognise it requires specialist training.
No. City & Guilds, which offers the most recognised dog grooming qualifications, does not currently offer cat-specific grooming qualifications. Their dog grooming courses (7863) focus on canine grooming only. For cat grooming, look for iPET Network qualifications which are specifically designed for feline grooming.
Specialist cat grooming training is offered at fewer centres than dog grooming. Key providers include Cat Grooming School (East London), Absolutely Animals (London SE12), GroomArts (London & Hertfordshire), Get Grooming (Kent), KD Training Academy (Somerset), and Four Paws Groom School. Contact iPET Network for their full list of approved cat grooming training centres.
Ask: "Do you have any cat-specific grooming qualifications?" (look for iPET Network), "How many cats do you groom regularly?", "How do you handle stressed or anxious cats?", "What would you do if my cat became too stressed?", and "Are you insured to groom cats?". A qualified cat groomer will be happy to discuss their training.