Cat grooming specialist Charlie Galbraith, Founder of Cats at Home, is set to open a new salon in Norwich early next month. Here, the former veterinary nurse shares her story
Who are you and what do you do?
I am Charlie, a qualified veterinary nurse with a certificate in emergency and critical care and a PGSE teacher training. Having worked as a Vet Nurse, I went into teaching veterinary nurses and managing groups of veterinary practices. Currently I own Cats at home the UK’s first cat only cat spa owned by a vet nurse
What led you to starting Cats at Home in the first place? What were you doing before?
I was managing vet practices then took time out to have children. Covid hit and the veterinary industry got hit hard being unable to offer routine services to patients that was not an emergency
Are you Norfolk born and raised? What do you love about living and working in the county?
Raised in the historic city of Norwich, my formative years at Thorpe House School for Girls instilled in me a deep appreciation for excellence. Surrounded by the beauty of Norfolk, I developed a lasting connection with animals — especially cats — and a commitment to their well-being.
Inspired by this foundation, I established a grooming spa dedicated exclusively to feline care, where luxury meets compassion. Our mission is to provide a calm, refined environment tailored to the unique needs of cats, with an unwavering focus on quality, comfort, and client experience.
At the heart of our service is a belief that grooming should be more than routine — it should be a restorative, stress-free experience delivered with precision, empathy, and the highest standards of care. I love living in Norfolk for its peaceful way of life, natural beauty and strong sense of community.
And what do you love about cats in particular?!
I’ve loved cats for as long as I can remember—their independence, their quiet wisdom, and the way they show affection on their own terms.
Where are you based at the moment, and where are you opening in the autumn?
We are based in Wymondham but expanding to Norwich.
Why do some cats benefit from a grooming service?
Regular grooming helps prevent painful matting, especially in long-haired breeds, and reduces excess shedding and hairballs. It also gives us a chance to check for skin issues, parasites, or hidden injuries that owners might miss. For older cats or those with mobility issues, grooming becomes even more important. They often can’t clean themselves as thoroughly as they used to. Beyond the physical benefits, grooming can be a calming, bonding experience that contributes to a cat’s emotional well-being, especially when it’s done in a quiet, stress-free environment like a spa.
Where can people find out more about Cats at Home?
We will be launching an open day for people to come and have a look around – everything is on our website that you need to know. Follow all our social media pages for the latest information.
Do you have any plans to open another grooming salon after this one?
Absolutely…just a matter of planning where!
The new Cats at Home cat grooming salon in Norwich will be based at 142 Dereham Road, Norwich, NR2 3AB, There will be an Open Day on Saturday September 6, from 12 noon to 3pm. Visit Cats At Home and follow on Instagram.
Featured image of Charlie by Nicole Pugh/Studio 5
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