How to Become Certified as a Cat Groomer

Many pet grooming courses focus heavily on dog grooming, according to the National Cat Groomers Institute of America. That's why they developed a course specifically aimed at cat groomers, which trains and certifies groomers in grooming techniques used with different breeds of cats. The course of study also covers handling skills for cats with various temperaments. According to the National Cat Groomers Institute of America website, certified feline master groomers earn an average of $103 for bathing and performing a lion cut, a popular style of cut, on a longhaired cat, and it does not take long to earn your certification.

Things You'll Need

Membership application and fee
Study packets
Other study materials as desired
Fees for study materials, classes and exams

Step One

Join the National Cat Groomers Institute of America. Download an application from the website or apply online. As of April 2011, the initial membership fee is $50.

Step Two

Purchase the four required study packets and any other optional study materials you wish to use, such as flash cards, DVDs and the "Ultimate Cat Groomer Encyclopedia." The four study packets, including "Anatomy and Health," "Breeds, Colors and Genetics," "Temperaments and Handling Skills" and "Business Management" are required, while others materials are recommended but not required. You can purchase the required study packets separately or in a package. As of April 2011, individual study packets cost $49, while you can purchase a package of all four packets for $176 if you prefer.

Step Three

Attend a two to three day workshop, offered at various locations, or a two week training program at the National Cat Groomers School in Greenville, South Carolina, to get your practical training. The fee for the two week training program is $2,410 as of April 2010 and includes study materials. Most workshops are offered outside the U.S. though a few are offered in the country. Fees for workshops vary but usually range from $350 to $450. You must purchase study materials separately. In some instances, you must bring your own cat to workshops with which to practice your grooming skills.

Step Four

Take the written and practical exams and earn passing scores to become a certified feline master groomer. You can take both the written and practical exams at the National Cat Groomers School or during most training workshops. You can also take written exams at any trade show attended by National Cat Groomers Institute of America representatives.

Sources:

National Cat Groomers Institute of America. http://nationalcatgroomers.com/. Exceptional Cat Grooming Standards.

National Cat Groomers Institute of America. http://nationalcatgroomers.com/training-certification/certification-process. Certification Process.