THE HIDDEN TRUTH ABOUT CAT GROOMING: LICKING ISN’T ENOUGH, SAY EXPERTS
- Charlotte Bolt
- 8 hours ago
- 3 min read
September is Happy Cat Month, and feline care advocates are using the occasion to challenge one of the most persistent myths in pet ownership — that cats can keep themselves clean and healthy without help.
La Belle Paw, an Australian company specialising in natural, cat-safe grooming products, has partnered with Certified Feline Master Groomer Sherie Williams-Slattery, also known as The Cat Stylist, to highlight the importance of proactive grooming and introduce a new at-home solution.
“Cats don’t groom themselves; they lick themselves, and licking isn’t enough,” said Sherie. “All cats – no matter their age, breed, coat type or lifestyle – benefit from regular grooming!”
Why cat grooming matters
Williams-Slattery, who has 17 years of experience in feline grooming and education, says both long-haired and short-haired cats face issues that self-licking cannot fix.
Long-haired cats are prone to painful matting, while short-haired cats may suffer from greasy coats, hairballs and skin problems. Indoor cats collect dust and dander, while outdoor cats can pick up burrs, insects or debris.
“Regular grooming removes loose hair, reduces shedding and hairballs, keeps the skin and coat healthy, and allows early detection of lumps, parasites or other health concerns,” she explained.
“Grooming also offers emotional benefits for your cat, such as reducing stress and encouraging bonding and comfort.”
Tools of the trade
With most products on the market designed for dogs, many can be unsuitable for feline use. Sherie stresses the importance of using tools and products tailored for cats’ delicate skin and coat.
“The right choice depends on coat type, skin health, temperament and lifestyle,” she said.
“Using the right tools and products will not only make grooming easier but also protect the health of your cat’s skin and coat.”
She recommends metal combs, silicone brushes and salon-quality shampoos. While she generally avoids leave-in, waterless products due to cats’ tendency to lick themselves, she supports the use of La Belle Paw’s Skin & Coat Grooming Powder as a safe option when bathing isn’t possible.
“Nothing will beat the results of a good bath and blow dry, but as a safe in-between option when bathing isn’t possible, La Belle Paw’s Skin & Coat Grooming Powder can help keep the coat fresh and mat-free. It’s natural, safe when used as directed, and easy to apply without water,” she said.
New product for at-home care
La Belle Paw’s Skin & Coat Grooming Powder is Australian-made, enriched with probiotics, colloidal oat, hydrolysed wheat, argan oil and catnip oil. It was showcased earlier this year at the Oz Feline Fair & CATstravaganza.
“La Belle Paw’s grooming powder is a great way to keep your cat's coat healthy in between professional visits,” said Sherie.
“Regular bathing and grooming aren’t just for fixing issues. They’re for healthy cats, too, and are a powerful way to prevent skin and coat problems before they start!”
La Belle Paw founder Snez Herve said customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Customers call it a game changer,” she said. “They love that it’s easy to use and provides a calming grooming experience with fresher, softer coats. They have the added confidence of knowing it's Australian-made and professionally recommended.”
Busting the myths
Sherie also addressed common misconceptions, such as the belief that short-haired cats don’t need grooming, that cats dislike water, or that matting can be easily brushed out.
She explained that bathing, combing and professional care are essential for cats of all breeds and ages.
Her message is clear: licking alone will never replace proper grooming, and proactive care is key to a cat’s health and comfort.
