How To Get Rid Of Matted Fur On Long Haired Cats

Matting occurs more in spring and autumn when cats are molting.

How to get rid of matted fur on long haired cats. If the brush doesn t seem to work use both of your thumbs and index fingers to pull apart the matted fur. See our related article for much more about the causes of matted hair in cats. The goal is to unknot tiny portions of the mat at a time. Most mats will come out with brushing but hard mats can require extra work.

Old infirm overweight and long haired cats in particular are more susceptible to tangled fur which can become clumped mats or knotted dreadlocks. Certain breeds of cats persians maine coons and other long haired breeds are more likely to develop mats. But sometimes if something becomes stuck in its fur or a cat neglects its grooming mats may form. Mats are clumps of hair that have become entangled or knotted over time.

These clumps of fur can be painful for the cat. Cats have earned a reputation as effective self groomers but that doesn t mean they don t need your help in staying clean and healthy. Matted fur occurs more frequently in long haired cats but this doesn t mean it won t happen to short haired cats. And if these are left un brushed the amount of matted and entangled hair increases resulting in it becoming even more matted.

Indoor only and shorthaired cats can also get mats from a buildup of dust and dander. Usually grooming keeps the fur clean and prevents fleas from taking hold. Why matted cat fur is bad. Matted cat fur on the other hand damages tissue by preventing oxygen and moisture from reaching it.

Healthy and tangle free cat fur allows for a continuous air flow to your cat s skin. As clumps get larger they put pressure on your cat s skin making it painful to lie down. If the mat is one large clump sometimes pulling it apart allows the brush or comb to better untangle the hair. But there are plenty of solutions for cat mats it s just a matter of experimenting with different courses and seeing what works for your kitty.

Work your way down to the base of the mat as you untangle the top. Cat matted fur can be a real problem for cat owners and it can be difficult to keep mats at bay or get rid of them especially if your cat is particularly sensitive to brushing or clipping. Keep in mind that shedding dead hair is normal and it s a process that cannot be avoided.