Catster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

5 Best Cat Clippers for Matted Fur (2024) – Reviews & Top Picks

Written by: Christian Adams

Last Updated on February 14, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

Haircut at the barber's cat

5 Best Cat Clippers for Matted Fur (2024) – Reviews & Top Picks

Haircut at the barber's cat_Helen Sushitskaya_shutterstock Matted fur can become a real issue in long-haired cat breeds like Persians, and although prevention is better than the cure, sometimes your cat’s coat can quickly get out of hand. In these cases, scissors, combs, and specialized brushes may unfortunately not do the trick, and a heavy-duty solution like clippers might be the only answer.

Many people choose cats over dogs, as they seem like a more low-maintenance breed. They clean themselves, they are not running outside in the mud, and they don’t have the exercise needs of dogs. While this is largely true for short-haired cat breeds, long-haired cat breeds have coats that can knot and mat in just a couple of days if you don’t keep an eye out. A matted coat not only looks bad, but it can also be highly uncomfortable for your cat and even cause them some pain.

If you have a long-haired cat breed that is suffering from a matted coat and you’re looking to get some quality clippers to sort the problem out, look no further! We’ve put together a list of in-depth reviews and a detailed buyers guide to help you find the best clippers for cats with mats

Cat ball divider 1A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites (Updated in 2024)

Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Andis AGC2 UltraEdge Pet Clipper Andis AGC2 UltraEdge Pet Clipper
  • Two-speed rotary motor
  • Quiet operation
  • Cool-running design
  • Best Value
    Second place
    Andis AGC2 Detachable Blade Pet Clipper Andis AGC2 Detachable Blade Pet Clipper
  • Two different speed settings
  • Locking on/off switch
  • Quiet operation
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    Wahl KM10 Brushless Cat Clipper Wahl KM10 Brushless Cat Clipper
  • Include #10 blade
  • 14-foot power cable
  • Engineered in Germany
  • Oster A5 Turbo Pet Clipper Oster A5 Turbo Pet Clipper
  • Heavy-duty design
  • Two different speed settings
  • Quiet yet powerful motor
  • Oster Power Max Pet Clipper Oster Power Max Pet Clipper
  • Lightweight, ergonomic design
  • Two different speed settings
  • Rubberized grip
  • The 5 Best Cat Clippers for Matted Fur

    1. Andis AGC2 UltraEdge 2-Speed Pet Clipper – Best Overall 1Andis AGC2 UltraEdge 2-Speed Detachable Blade Pet Clipper

    The AGC2 UltraEdge 2 from Andis is our top choice of clipper for cats with mats. Suitable for all coat types and breeds, this premium clipper is the preferred choice among pet grooming professionals. It features a two-speed rotary motor with 3,400- and 4,400 strokes-per-minute settings that will give you precision while using. It also has a super-quiet operation to reduce your cat’s anxiety and stress. It has a cool-running design that won’t overheat and burn your cat and reduces the need for vents or cooling fans that ultimately get clogged with hair. The clippers have a durable “break-resistant” housing and a 14-foot cord for ultimate maneuverability while working. These clippers also have a removable blade and drive to make cleaning a breeze, and a locking power switch to prevent accidental shutoff while you’re in the middle of trimming.

    Despite the “cool-running” design, several customers report the blades of these clippers getting hot to the touch fairly quickly, even in as little as 5 minutes in some cases. The blade also gets clogged with hair easily and needs to be cleaned regularly, which may also contribute to the overheating of the unit.

    All in all, we think these are the best cat clippers for cats with mats.

    Pros
    • Two-speed rotary motor
    • Quiet operation
    • Cool-running design
    • Break-resistant housing
    • 14-foot power cord for optimum maneuverability
    • Locking power switch to prevent accidental shutoff
    Cons
    • May overheat fairly quickly
    • Gets easily clogged with hair

    2. Andis AGC2 2-Speed Detachable Blade Pet Clipper – Best Value 2Andis AGC2 2-Speed Detachable Blade Pet Clipper

    The best cat hair clipper for the money is the Andis AGC2 Pet Clipper. These clippers have two different speed settings—2,700 or 3,400 strokes per minute—which is ideal for different fur types, and it has an included UltraEdge blade that easily detaches. The clippers have a simple locking on/off switch for added safety, and the detaching blades are easy to clean. These clippers have a 14-foot cord for great freedom of movement, have a quiet running operation, and come with a spare blade drive and blade oil to keep them running smoothly.

    Several customers report that these clippers do not cut well on cats with thick fur and painfully pull at their coats rather than cut. This of course will rapidly cause overheating, and some customers report that they are hot to the touch within minutes, keeping these clippers from the top position.

    Pros
    • Two different speed settings
    • Locking on/off switch
    • Easy-to-clean blades and drive
    • Quiet operation
    • 14-foot power cord
    • Spare blade drive and blade oil included
    • Inexpensive
    Cons
    • Clippers don’t work well on thick fur
    • Overheats rapidly

    3. Wahl KM10 Brushless 2-Speed Cat Clipper – Premium Choice 3Wahl KM10 Brushless 2-Speed Professional Dog & Cat Clipper

    If you are looking for premium cat clippers for cats with mats, that will stand the test of time, look no further than the KM10 clippers from Wahl. Engineered in Germany, these clippers have two different speed settings of 3,000 and 3,700 strokes per minute and a powerful motor that is reported to last for up to 10,000 hours of use. The clippers are lightweight and highly ergonomic, making shaving your cat simple and easy on your wrist. The KM10 comes with a #10 blade, but there are multiple other sizes available that are easy to detach and clean. These clippers have a 14-foot power cable for ease of use and super-quiet running operation.

    It’s difficult to fault these clippers, and the only downsides are the high price and the difficulty of changing blades—you’ll need to remove screws to get the blade off, keeping these clippers from the top two spots.

    Pros
    • 3,000 and 3,700 SPM speed settings
    • Engineered in Germany
    • Lightweight and ergonomically designed
    • Include #10 blade
    • 14-foot power cable
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • The blade is not easily changed

    4. Oster A5 Turbo 2-Speed Pet Clipper 4Oster A5 Turbo 2-speed Pet Clipper

    The Oster A5 Turbo clipper is heavy-duty and almost unbreakable. With two different speed settings of 3,000 and 4,000 strokes per minute, these clippers are capable of shearing through even the thickest of coats. The powerful motor still runs quietly, though, reducing any stress and anxiety for your cat. The detachable blade system is highly versatile and makes cleaning a breeze, and the clippers come with a #10 Cryogen blade, lubricating oil, and clipper grease.

    The included blade is reported to blunt fairly quickly, and these clippers get hot within a few minutes, so you’ll need to take regular breaks, which is frustrating. Several customers report that the clippers rattle and shake as the screws come loose after extended use.

    Pros
    • Heavy-duty design
    • Two different speed settings
    • Quiet yet powerful motor
    • Detachable blade system
    • Included #10 blade, lubricating oil, and clipper grease
    Cons
    • Included blade blunts quickly
    • Overheats after only a few minutes of use
    • Starts to rattle after extended use

    5. Oster Power Max 2-Speed Pet Clipper 5Oster Power Max 2-speed Pet Clipper

    The lightweight and ergonomic design of the Oster Power Max clippers makes grooming a breeze. With two different speed settings of 2,700 and 4,200 strokes per minute, quiet running operation, and a rubberized grip that will stay cool, you can move quickly and confidently while grooming your cat. The clipper has a detachable blade system for easy cleaning and switching of blades and is perfectly suitable for all breed types and coat lengths. The clipper comes with an antibacterial-coated CryogenX blade, blade guard, blade oil, clipper grease, cleaning brush, and two extra drive tips.

    These clippers are expensive compared to some other models on this list, and while the blade doesn’t get hot, the clipper itself gets hot fairly quickly.

    Pros
    • Lightweight, ergonomic design
    • Two different speed settings
    • Rubberized grip
    • Quiet running operation
    • Detachable blades
    • Included maintenance kit
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • Clippers get hot quickly

    3 cat face divider

    Buyers Guide: Choosing Cat Clippers for Matted Fur

    Shaving your cat with clippers may be the only option left for their health and comfort once their coat has matted beyond brushing. Your cat may have become too old to groom themselves and has developed serious knots and matting, and shaving is the last available option.

    There are several different factors to look out for when purchasing clippers for your matted cat. From power and affordability to strength and durability, you’ll need to factor in all these features before making a decision. Of course, your choice will also depend on your unique situation: How often does your cat need clipping, what type of breed of cat do you own, and how many cats do you have that need regular grooming?

    Power

    The amount of power that the clippers are capable of is usually the first factor to take into consideration. Matted and knotted fur can be quite a challenge to get through, and the more powerful your clippers are capable of, the easier the job will be. A clipper that is capable of around 4,000 strokes per minute is usually enough, but professional groomers will often opt for higher power machines of around 5,000 SPM.

    Most, but not all, clippers will have an adjustable speed setting of at least two speeds. This is an important addition, as lower speeds are great for sensitive areas like your cat’s face and legs. Higher speeds used in these areas can cause tremendous stress and anxiety for your cat.

    Ergonomics

    Whether you are using your clippers daily or just on occasion, ergonomics plays an important factor in your decision. It can be tiring grooming for extended periods on a particularly matted coat. A lightweight and comfortable-to-hold clipper will go a long way in making sure you give your cat an accurate cut and will make the experience better overall for your feline.

    Cord length plays an essential part in ergonomics too. The longer the cord on your machine, the easier it is to maneuver and get an accurate cut. Some models come in a cordless, rechargeable version, but these may die on you in the middle of grooming, and the batteries only tend to last a few years before needing a replacement.

    Corded clippers are likely to be a far longer-lasting investment, and as long as the cord is at least 10 feet in length, they should be easy and comfortable to use.

    Noise

    Almost all cats are sensitive to loud noises, and you’ll want your clippers to have as silent an operation as possible. This will reduce stress and anxiety during grooming and make your cat less likely to run away or scratch you during grooming. Too much vibration is also stressful and uncomfortable for your cat, so the clippers should run smoothly too.

    Blades

    Of course, you’ll want your clipper’s blades to be as sharp as possible to prevent pulling on your cat’s coat and to get the job done as quickly as possible. While most clippers are capable of interchangeable blades, some models have a quick and easy release system to change blades for different sections of your cat’s coat. Others need to be removed via screws, which can become a hassle. All blades will eventually blunt, so replacements should be easy to obtain too.

    Heat

    Most clippers on the market will heat up to some extent after extended use, and this is mostly unavoidable. However, the blades should not heat up so much that they are hot to the touch. This can hurt and even burn your cat and will require you to stop and let the blades cool every few minutes, which is frustrating for both you and your cat. The clipper motor should also stay cool to the touch or at least have a rubber grip to diffuse heat.

    fur trimmed with an electric clipper_DwaFotografy_shutterstock
    Image Credit: DwaFotografy, Shutterstock

    3 cat divider

    FAQs on Choosing Clippers for Matted Fur

    Why do cats get matted fur?

    There are a variety of different reasons that your cat’s coat will get matted, but regular grooming is the essential first step in preventing knots. Long-haired breeds like Persians require daily combing and brushing, as without this, they cannot keep their fur mat-free themselves.

    Matting and knots usually develop where there is a great deal of movement and friction on your cat’s coat, such as their chest, tail, and legs. These areas will need careful attention. Regular brushing will get rid of any shedding hair and dramatically reduce the chances of matting.

    There are other reasons for matting too: Dietary issues, internal health problems, and skin allergies or infections can also cause matting. In these instances, a trip to the vet is highly recommended. Matted coats may also point to a mobility issue, which is often the case in older felines. Your cat may not be able to reach certain areas of their body to clean, and this can result in matting.

    Precautions and tips for clipping your cat

    It’s important to note that a cat’s skin is far thinner, looser, and more sensitive than a dog’s, so you’ll need to be extra cautious while clipping their coat. They are far more prone to nicking and cuts, especially if their coat is matted down to the skin. It helps to move slowly and stretch the skin out around the matt while shaving to avoid folds in the skin that can easily be cut.

    • We recommend removing all the knots and mats you can before shaving, using either a brush or scissors, as this will help avoid injury.
    • It may be a good idea, especially with cats that have never experienced clipping, to trim your cat’s nails before you start. The sound of even a quiet machine will likely frighten your cat, and they’ll try to defend themselves. Switch the machine on and see how it reacts. Let them get acquainted with the sound of the machine for a few minutes before starting. If they are still afraid, you may need to consider using a cat harness or even a mild sedative from your vet before starting.
    • Always start with the top of your cat’s body and move downward toward the tail. This will allow you to shave with the growth of their fur and help avoid injury. Move slowly and gently as possible, especially when close to the skin. Some mats will require you to shave directly on the skin, and in this case, you should move the clipper slowly from side to side to get a “scissor-action” and thoroughly cut through it.
    • Try and take frequent breaks while shaving. This will keep both you and your cat calmer during the process and make the job far easier.
    • Be sure to constantly check the temperature of the blade and make sure it is not burning your cat’s skin.
    • We recommend getting help from a friend if your cat’s coat is heavily matted. They can help hold your cat down, keep them calm, and help stretch out any loose skin while you shave.

    Is it okay to shave your cat?

    Unless your cat is completely knotted and matted and you cannot brush the knots out, you should avoid shaving them. Some owners believe that shaving their cats helps in hot weather, but this is untrue, as cats have their own way of temperature regulation, and long fur may even help keep them cool when it’s hot. A shaved cat is at more risk for sunburn and insect bites if they live outdoors, and of course, they are far more susceptible to cold temperatures.

    For long-haired cats, it can take between 4 and 6 months for their fur to grow back completely, so you should avoid shaving unless utterly necessary.

    cat paw dividerConclusion

    The best choice of cat clippers for mats according to our tests is the AGC2 UltraEdge 2 from Andis. It features a two-speed rotary motor, quiet operation, and a cool-running design that reduces the need for vents or cooling fans that ultimately get clogged with hair. The clippers have a durable housing, a 14-foot cord for ultimate maneuverability, and a removable blade and drive to make cleaning a breeze.

    The best cat hair clipper for the money is the Andis AGC2 Pet Clipper. These clippers have two different speed settings, an easily detachable UltraEdge blade, and a safe locking on/off switch. The 14-foot cord, quiet running operation, and included spare blade drive and blade oil make this clipper outstanding value for money.

    It can be a challenge to find the right clippers for your matted cat with all the options available today. Hopefully, our in-depth reviews have helped you navigate this maze so you can find the best clippers for cats with mats to suit your unique needs.

    Related Read:


    Featured Image Credit: Helen Sushitskaya, Shutterstock

    Get Catster in your inbox!

    Stay informed! Get tips and exclusive deals.
    Catster Editors Choice Badge
    Shopping Cart

    Pangolia

    © Pangolia Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved.