How to Groom a Cat That Hates Being Groomed: 7 Expert Tips for Stress-Free Grooming

Grooming is an essential part of keeping your cat healthy and happy. But what if your cat absolutely hates grooming? From hissing and biting to hiding under the furniture, many cats make grooming time a nightmare. Whether it's brushing, nail trimming, or even a gentle wipe-down, some felines simply don’t cooperate.

But don’t worry—you can groom even the most reluctant cat with patience, the right techniques, and a few clever tricks. In this blog, we’ll show you how to groom a cat that hates being groomed, so both you and your feline friend can stay calm and clean.

Why Grooming Is Important—Even for Grumpy Cats

Even though cats are naturally clean animals, they still need help with:

Removing loose hair (to prevent hairballs)
Detangling and preventing mats
Cleaning hard-to-reach spots
Trimming nails to avoid injury
Checking for parasites or skin problems

Cats that resist grooming often end up with painful mats, dirty fur, or even infections. So, it’s important not to give up on grooming—even if your cat puts up a fight.

7 Expert Tips to Groom a Cat That Hates Grooming

1. Start Slowly and Gently

If your cat already has a negative association with grooming, start with short sessions—just a minute or two per day. Begin by petting them with your hands, then gradually introduce the brush. Stop before your cat gets agitated to build trust.

2. Pick the Right Time

Never try to groom a hyper or angry cat. Wait until your cat is calm, sleepy, or full (after mealtime). A relaxed state makes them less likely to resist.

3. Use the Right Grooming Tools

Using the wrong brush can cause pain or discomfort, especially in long-haired cats. Try these:

Slicker brush for detangling
Rubber grooming mitt for sensitive cats
Wide-toothed comb for long fur

Test different tools to find the one your cat tolerates best.

4. Reward With Treats and Praise

Always associate grooming with positive reinforcement. Give your cat treats, cuddles, or a favorite toy after a successful grooming session. This builds positive associations and reduces fear.

5. Use Towels for Restraint

If your cat scratches or bites, gently wrap them in a towel, leaving only the area you’re grooming exposed. This “kitty burrito” method helps control movement and makes the cat feel secure.

6. Break Grooming Into Small Tasks

Instead of brushing the whole body in one go, break grooming into parts—tail today, back tomorrow. Gradually, your cat will get used to the routine without feeling overwhelmed.

7. Seek Professional Help if Needed

If grooming at home becomes impossible, take your cat to a professional groomer or vet. They’re trained to handle anxious or aggressive cats and can safely perform haircuts, nail trims, or dematting.

Bonus Tips: Nail Trimming and Bathing

Nail trimming: Use a cat nail clipper and only trim the sharp tip. Do it when your cat is sleepy, and reward immediately after.
Bathing: Most cats hate water. Use dry shampoo or pet wipes instead, unless your vet recommends a bath.

What Not to Do

Never force grooming through fear or punishment.
Avoid shouting, grabbing, or chasing your cat.
Don’t try to groom an injured or sick cat without vet guidance.

The goal is to make grooming a routine, stress-free experience—not a fight.

Final Thoughts

Grooming a cat that hates being groomed can be challenging, but with patience and the right approach, it’s absolutely possible. Remember: start slow, keep it positive, and know when to stop. Over time, even the grumpiest cats can learn to tolerate—and maybe even enjoy—a good grooming session.

Still struggling? A professional cat groomer can do wonders while keeping your cat safe and calm.

How to Groom a Cat That Hates Being Groomed