or those of us dedicated to cat grooming, handling a variety of feline temperaments is an everyday reality. Cat bites and scratches are considered almost inevitable risks in the industry, yet with the right techniques, tools and preventive measures, we can minimize and manage these injuries effectively. Protecting ourselves from bites and scratches includes reading cat body language to predict possible injuries, improving our handling techniques, and selecting appropriate grooming services or tools to reduce aggressive reactions.

One of the most effective ways to prevent injury is to understand feline body language so that you can predict their next move. Cats communicate their discomfort, fear or irritation through various cues such as ear positions, vocalizations, and their overall body position and attention. Recognizing these signs early on can help groomers adjust their approach before a cat feels the need to bite or scratch.

Key indicators of stress in cats include:

• Flattened ears or ears turning sideways are signs of annoyance or fear.
• Dilated pupils and wide-open eyes suggest heightened alertness and potential defensiveness.
• Growling, hissing or yowling are direct signals that the cat feels threatened and may respond.
• Tense or jerky body movements indicate the cat is uncomfortable with what is currently happening to them.

Remaining mindful of these indicators and responding accordingly—such as allowing the cat a brief respite, adjusting your hold or position, finishing what you’re doing quickly or distracting them—can help reduce aggressive behaviors and lower the cat’s stress during grooming.

Wearing protective equipment can create a safer grooming environment for both you and the cat. Always be mindful of your ability to move and change positions so that any protective equipment or apparel isn’t hindering your handling techniques.

Arm Protectors and Gloves
Arm protectors and/or thick gloves can provide a protective barrier that reduces the risk of deep scratches or bites. Arm protectors, typically made from puncture- or cut-resistant materials, extend from the wrist to the elbow, covering a large area that is often vulnerable during grooming. Some groomers may find gloves restrictive when handling delicate areas, so try out different types of arm guards to find what works best for you.

Towels as Restraints
The humble towel is one of the most effective tools for working with cats, both by providing some control over the cat, while also adding a layer of protection between your skin and the cat’s sharp teeth or nails. Wrapping a cat securely but comfortably in a towel—a technique often called “burrito wrapping”—helps to immobilize the cat’s legs, reducing the risk of scratching. A towel can also give the cat a sense of security.

When using a towel:

• Choose a thick, large towel that fully covers the cat.
• Wrap the cat snugly with the towel tucked under the cat, using its own body weight to help secure the wrap.
• Hold firmly but gently, ensuring the cat can breathe comfortably and isn’t overly restricted.
• Unwrap sections of the towel to expose the part of the cat’s body that you are working on.

If a cat has jumped or escaped away from you, use a towel to drape over the cat’s entire body and head, then swiftly scoop them up off the floor while holding them firmly in the towel. This approach can significantly reduce risk of injury to you from bites and scratches, and it safely secures the cat to move them back to the grooming table or to put them back in their carrier.

Appropriate Muzzles
Muzzles and collars are invaluable tools for handling especially reactive cats. However, they require careful consideration to ensure the cat’s comfort and safety, as not all muzzles and restraints are appropriate for all cats. When choosing a muzzle for a cat, prioritize comfort, safety and the ability to monitor the cat’s wellbeing throughout the grooming session. Always ensure the muzzle fits securely without putting pressure on the cat’s neck or restricting airflow.

Start by selecting a muzzle that is snug but not restrictive, allowing the cat enough room to breathe comfortably without impeding their vision too severely, as many cats feel calmer when they can see their surroundings. Options like the Air Muzzle, which secure the head gently while allowing the cat full visibility and ventilation, are often beneficial. Throughout the session, monitor the cat’s breathing, watching for signs of increased stress, such as rapid breathing or struggling, and adjust or remove the muzzle if needed.

This careful selection and monitoring help maintain a balance between the necessary restraint for safety and the cat’s comfort. Proper training on the application and removal of these tools is essential, as improper use may cause additional stress or even injury.

Selecting appropriate grooming services and style options based on the cat’s temperament and history can help reduce stress-induced aggression. The following are examples of adjustments that may need made to better accommodate certain cats.

Shorter Grooming Sessions
Some cats become increasingly agitated as time goes on, especially if they’ve hit the end of their “turkey timer.” Prioritize what is causing immediate problems or discomfort and do not drag the groom on longer than necessary.

Limit Elective Options
For highly aggressive or anxious cats, consider only performing essential grooming tasks, such as nail trimming, bathing, sanitary trims, etc. This includes avoiding or limiting elective (non-matting) shaving on cats that become aggressive. A good bath, blow-dry and comb-out will prevent many of the same issues as a haircut and will be more tolerable for reactive cats than forced shaving or trimming.

Senior and Special Needs Cat Considerations
Older or special needs cats may experience discomfort from prolonged handling. Being especially gentle and mindful of positions and pressure can improve their grooming experience and reduce reactive behaviors.

Despite the best preventive measures, bites and scratches can still occur. Knowing how to respond promptly to injuries is essential to avoid infections or complications.

Bite Care: Immediate Steps and Medical Attention
Cat bites in particular pose a high risk of infection due to bacteria in a cat’s mouth. Follow these steps to minimize risk:

1. Clean the wound immediately by rinsing thoroughly with warm water.
2. Disinfect with antiseptic to reduce bacterial presence.
3. Apply pressure to stop any bleeding if the wound is deep.
4. Seek medical attention, especially if the bite punctures deeply or shows signs of swelling.
5. If antibiotics are prescribed, complete the full course as instructed. In some cases, a tetanus shot may also be necessary.

Scratch Care: Treating and Healing Superficial Wounds
While scratches are typically less severe than bites, they can leave scars if not cared for properly. Here are a few ways to treat and minimize their impact:

1. Clean with an antiseptic wash to prevent infection.
2. Apply a healing lotion or oil, like vitamin E or Aloe Vera, which can speed healing and reduce scarring.
3. Use wound dressings or bandages for larger scratches to prevent reopening the wound.

Consistent, mindful wound care not only supports faster healing, but also reduces the likelihood of long-term skin damage.

Although injuries may not be entirely preventable, a thoughtful, prepared approach can greatly reduce the risk of bites and scratches. By combining an understanding of cat body language, utilization of protective equipment, improved handling techniques and a customized grooming experience, professional cat groomers can create a safe, stress-free experience for both groomers and cats.