How to Keep Your Long Haired Cat’s Fur From Matting

Long Haired cats are adored for their luxurious fur, but these gorgeous locks can become tangled, which could lead to matting. Left untreated, matted fur will grow tighter and cause cats discomfort. Extreme cases of matted fur can even lead to health problems. 

At The Gentle Vet, we’re always happy to share our grooming tips and tricks. Keep reading for ways to prevent and treat matted fur in your longhaired felines.

Matted Fur: Getting to the Root of Tangled Tresses

Cats are known for their impeccable grooming habits, but sometimes, even the most carefully coiffed long-haired cats can experience matted fur. It can happen for several reasons, including:

• A cat’s natural shedding process can cause the undercoat to become entangled with the topcoat.
• Dirty and oily fur is more susceptible to matting.
• Matted fur often occurs in hard-to-reach places where there is a lot of friction, such as around the collar, between the legs, and on the chest.
• Senior pets, those with arthritis, and overweight cats may not be able to groom themselves properly.
• Dental disease can make cats reluctant to groom themselves.

The Purrfect Routine for Preventing Matted Fur

The best way to prevent matted fur is with daily brushing or combing. Here are some tips for creating the perfect grooming routine that both you and your longhaired cat will enjoy:

• Start slowly, especially if your cat is prone to anxiety or isn’t accustomed to grooming
• Pick a place where your cat is comfy, such as the couch, a favorite spot on the rug, or your lap.
• Begin with a soft brush that’s less likely to get caught in your cat’s fur.
• Once your cat is used to daily grooming, switch to a comb or brush designed for long-haired cats.
• Comb or brush down to the undercoat.
• Brush as much of your cat’s body as you can.
• Use your free hand to check for knots.
• Mild mats that aren’t too tight can sometimes be detangled with dematting brushes.
• NEVER try to cut out mats using scissors.
• Stick to a routine! Daily combing or brushing is more effective than one long session.

Know When to Call the Pros

For serious cases of matted fur, or if your cat resists being combed at home, it’s time to seek help. A professional groomer or veterinarian can remove mats using electric clippers and offer pro tips for maintaining your cat’s crowning glory.

Unraveling the Risks of Matted Fur

Matted fur isn’t just a cosmetic concern. If matting becomes serious, it can get extremely uncomfortable and cause red, inflamed skin. And when Kitty tries to scratch and bite at these irritated areas, an infection can develop. When matting becomes too extreme, a cat may need to be put under general anesthesia so the cat can be thoroughly shaved.

If you need help removing mats from your cat’s fur or if you have questions about grooming your cat, please contact our team at (330) 665-5915.