How to Brush Out Matted Cat Fur: 6 Vet-Reviewed Steps

Matting can be stressful for the cat and the owner. Your cat will be unhappy and painful, and working through the tangles in your cat’s fur can be difficult, especially if the matting is severe.

Matting can occur around a cat's legs, chest, back, and bum area, depending on its cause. If matting grows worse in these areas, it can lead to pain for your cat, as well as skin irritation and even infection. Getting the problem taken care of as soon as possible is essential.

To rid your cat’s fur of matting, you need the right tools. However, it is also crucial to recognize when a problem is too large for you to handle without professional help. This article goes through a few steps that you can take to deal with matting, along with advice on how to prevent the problem.

What Tools Are Needed to Deal With Matting?

Before you can start working with your cat’s matted fur, you will need to ensure that you have the proper tools for the job. You need a brush or comb, and if the matting is severe enough, you may want special de-matting tools.

• De-matting rake
• De-matting splitters

It is not recommended that you use scissors or shave your cat unless you are comfortable and confident with it and your cat is used to it being done. Using both scissors and clippers even in experienced hands can lead to skin cuts. If you cannot handle the matting with the tools at your disposal, you require the help of a professional.

Know When to Seek Professional Help

Professional groomers and veterinarians have better tools to groom your cat’s fur. Any time that you feel you are in over your head, seek help. Your cat’s skin is delicate and can be easily injured if you are not careful, so it is best to leave the work to trained professionals if you are not confident and comfortable.

The 6 Steps on How to Brush Out Matted Fur

1. Evaluate the Matting

The first step is to examine the area or areas that have matted. Is there one single mat, or are there multiple spots of matting? Is the matted fur small or large? By evaluating the situation, you can decide whether a professional should be involved.

2. Listen To Your Cat’s Body Language

De-matting your cat is not a pleasant process. It may make your cat stressed or bring them discomfort, making the process difficult. To make things as easy as possible, it is essential to go slow and listen to your cat’s body language. Your cat may not be willing to sit patiently while you work on de-matting their fur, which is fine. Give your cat breaks if needed.

3. Work Out the Tangles With Your Fingers

Your fingers are excellent tools for de-matting fur because they are effective and soothing. Your cat will likely be much more accustomed to your hands than a de-matting tool, and they may be more willing to let you work if you use your hands. Plus, your hands can be effective at breaking apart larger clumps of matted fur, while delicately ensuring the skin does not get damaged.

4. Brush What Your Fingers Cannot Untangle

It is unlikely that your fingers will be able to untangle the matted fur entirely, so once you have broken what chunks you can, move on to a brush or comb. Preferably, use a brush or comb that your cat is familiar with, since it can be less stressful. To prevent tugging against the skin, hold the base of the fur you are brushing, and brush in small, gentle strokes.

5. Use Specialized De-matting Tools

If your hands and the brush are not enough, it may be time to move on to de-matting tools. Depending on which one you use, there will be different instructions. Read the directions on the product and follow them closely.

6. Consult a Professional

If the mats are extensive, your cat is in pain or the skin appears irritated or damaged, look for veterinary guidance. Your vet can shave the area, clean the inflamed skin, and give your cat treatment if it’s required. In some cases of very severe mats, skin wounds, or cats that are not tolerating having a demat, your vet may recommend doing it under sedation.

If the mats are not that severe and the skin is intact professional groomers are accustomed to removing mats on fur, if this is something your cat will tolerate. Tangled fur may not seem all that serious, but improper care can lead to significant pain and other skin issues for your cat. Don’t be a hero—if you’re in over your head, ask for help!

What Causes Matting in Cats?

In general, the matting is caused by poor grooming. If your cat has an infection in their mouth, they are unlikely to groom frequently. Arthritis or obesity can limit your cat’s movement, making it harder for them to groom certain areas. Other issues that can cause matting include stress and various medical conditions.

If matting becomes a recurring problem, it could signify something troubling is going on. Talk to your vet if you have concerns about your cat’s coat or their general health.

The Dangers of Matting

Matted fur is a serious matter, not just an aesthetic one. Beyond causing your cat pain and discomfort, matted fur can also lead to some significant health concerns.

Fleas, ticks, and other parasites can hide in matted fur. Matting can lead to skin irritation, which can lead to infections. Matting may also affect temperature regulation, as thick clumps of matted hair can hinder airflow and make cats overheat.

When you notice matting, take steps to eliminate it. If you are concerned about resulting health issues, speak to your vet.

How to Prevent Matting

The best way to handle matted fur is to prevent it in the first place. Taking preliminary steps to combat matting can spare your cat discomfort and potentially, certain health concerns.

Brushing regularly can keep fur from matting. Depending on the breed, you may want to brush your feline more often or even daily (for example, long-haired breeds). There are de-matting sprays that can prevent tangles if you feel that you need the extra help.

Conclusion

Matting is stressful and concerning, but you are not alone in dealing with it. There are plenty of resources to turn to if you feel ill-equipped to conquer the tangles on your own, such as specialized tools and professional help. Be sure to show your cat gentleness and care when removing mats, and of course, know when to throw in the towel and seek help.

Featured Image Credit: Chameleon Pictures, Shutterstock