Quick Tips: How to Handle Mats

Cutting mats can be dangerous. Use a comb or brush instead.

Posted: Mon Feb 17 00:00:00 PST 2003

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Cutting matted fur can be dangerous, using a brush or comb is the best way to handle that clump.Grooming experts warn cat owners against cutting out mats. It is tempting because when you see a big clump of fur and you know your cat won't hold still for more than a few seconds, you just want to help the cat quickly get rid of that clump.

"Do not attempt to cut mats yourself because you can easily cut the cat's skin. Mats often sit right on the skin and you can end up with a big veterinary bill," Kathy Salzberg, a 21-year grooming veteran and owner of The Village Groomer in Massachusetts, says.

"People come in all the time after cutting the skin. You should use a comb or brush," advises Elaine Wexler-Mitchell, DVM.

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Quick Tips: How to Handle Mats

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Reader Comments

Stacy    Gilbert, AZ

5/9/2013 8:45:31 PM

I once heard that when a mat on a cat is cut out, the small hairs next to the skin become more easily tangled into a mat. Is that accurate?

CatChannel Editor    Irvine, CA

3/12/2013 10:47:04 AM

Margaret -- How wonderful to have had this cat for so long! You are right that your cat is probably better off in your hands. At her age, she might not be helping you as much with her grooming responsibility. Arthritis could prevent her from cleaning her fur comfortably. Click this link for further advice on grooming your cat. LINK Good luck!

Margaret    Chicago, IL

3/9/2013 10:16:17 AM

I have a 22 year old tiny persian. The more we try to groom her the worse her mats get. She doesn't fight much; just makes horrible vocal sounds that make me feel guilty. I worked for Vets for years over 20 years ago. I still can't keep her groomed. I am nervous about turning her over to a groomer or vet(do not want her drugged)as she is tiny and frail with arthritis Help.

Kvin    Hamilton Ontario Canada, ON

12/12/2012 8:36:10 AM

I have a long haired tabby and his fur was so matted that he was ripping his fur off to the skin when he would rub against things. I tried everything to get rid of this. So finally I took him to the vet, the vet gave him a shot to make him sleep and he buzzed him with shears. The fur grew back and all is good.

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