Do All Long Hair Cats Get Matted

Matted fur occurs more frequently in long haired cats but this doesn t mean it won t happen to short haired cats.

Do all long hair cats get matted.

Use the proper tools when brushing your cat s hair using a rubber brush for short haired cats and a long tooth metal wired brush for cats with longer hair. Mats are clumps of hair that have become entangled or knotted over time. For the most part cats do a great job on their own since they are excellent self groomers. Keep in mind that shedding dead hair is normal and it s a process that cannot be avoided.

You need to cut the hair in the direction of the grain. While a lack of grooming sometimes is just part of old age many times there may be a medical cause for it in your elderly feline. Matting occurs more in spring and autumn when cats are molting. Illnesses such as hypothyroidism hyperthyroidism hypertension and kidney problems can cause dandruff and matted fur and these conditions are common in older kitties.

Most mats will come out with brushing but hard mats can require extra work. Once you have bathed your cat hair the next step is to trim it. Affected cats are lightly sedated and their hair coats are shaved to remove all affected mats. Since the hair is now long it will look a bit messy if you don t trim it carefully.

If her fur is bad enough that the mat is just one giant stretch of knotted hair that s a situation that probably calls for a professional as shaving her fur might be necessary. Indoor only and shorthaired cats can also get mats from a buildup of dust and dander. Imagine keeping all that fur under control. You need to trim the cat hair because it can cause itchiness to the cat.

But every once in a while their hair gets tangled or matted. The best way to trim the cat hair is to use a pair of small scissors. 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. Remember to groom the undercoat and hard to reach spots as well.

See our related article for much more about the causes of matted hair in cats. If your cat doesn t like brushing have him get used to it through touching him at first. Old infirm overweight and long haired cats in particular are more susceptible to tangled fur which can become clumped mats or knotted dreadlocks. Seriously matted cats require veterinary attention.