How To Get Rid Of Matted Fur On Long Haired Cats

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.

How to get rid of matted fur on long haired cats.

When this happens matting and fur entangling worsen. 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. If the brush doesn t seem to work use both of your thumbs and index fingers to pull apart the matted fur.

Most cats shed their fur during spring and fall. The goal is to unknot tiny portions of the mat at a time. Why matted cat fur is bad. Matted cat fur on the other hand damages tissue by preventing oxygen and moisture from reaching it.

See our related article for much more about the causes of matted hair in cats. 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. But sometimes if something becomes stuck in its fur or a cat neglects its grooming mats may form. Matting occurs more in spring and autumn when cats are molting.

Matted fur occurs more frequently in long haired cats but this doesn t mean it won t happen to short haired cats. 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. Most mats will come out with brushing but hard mats can require extra work.

If the mat is one large clump sometimes pulling it apart allows the brush or comb to better untangle the hair. Dead hair mixes up with the stuck up debris and dirt on its skin thus forming into even larger mats. Usually grooming keeps the fur clean and prevents fleas from taking hold. As clumps get larger they put pressure on your cat s skin making it painful to lie down.

Indoor only and shorthaired cats can also get mats from a buildup of dust and dander. Keep in mind that shedding dead hair is normal and it s a process that cannot be avoided. Healthy and tangle free cat fur allows for a continuous air flow to your cat s skin.