If their formerly pristine sleek pelt is now dull and tufty it s time to wonder why this might be.
What does matted hair on a cat mean.
If your cat has sections of matted fur you can probably take care of the problem yourself.
What causes matting in hair anyway.
Other times it can be from accidents due to playing.
A cat covered in mats might even have to be put under anesthesia and shaved to prevent discomfort and pain during the hair removal.
Once you have bathed your cat hair the next step is to trim it.
You need to cut the hair in the direction of the grain.
If possible try to treat matts as soon as you see them.
You can also use a damp wash cloth to rub in a massaging pattern over the coat mimicking the action of the cat s tongue.
If you have an older cat try comparing then and now photos.
Thoroughly rub the powder into the tangle.
Matting occurs more in spring and autumn when cats are molting.
Since the hair is now long it will look a bit messy if you don t trim it carefully.
People usually get a double whammy dose of guilt when they accidentally cut their pet s skin.
Your cat may not like this and you may need an assistant to hold the cat while you do this.
Have your vet examine your kitty for any skin inflammation or irritation after the removal of serious mats.
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.
The best way to trim the cat hair is to use a pair of small scissors.
This can lead to dry scaly and sometimes irritated skin.
Rub some talc free baby powder gently into the mat.
As it happens there are several reasons a cat might groom less and poor coat condition is a clue they need medical help.
Once we know why your cat is getting matted we can improve his health.
Keep in mind that shedding dead hair is normal and it s a process that cannot be avoided.
The main reason why your cat experiences matted hair is due to lack of grooming if you do not brush your cat s hair properly or leave it as is for an extended period then your feline friend will suffer from the clumps due to shedding and leaving the excess fur on his skin.
Matted cat fur on the other hand damages tissue by preventing oxygen and moisture from reaching it.
Causes of matted hair in cats.
Pets groom themselves less as they age.
Remove the matted hair.
Bring your cat in for a full physical exam and blood and urine screen.
They know the pet got too matted and they feel neglectful.
What causes matted cat hair.
Step two is to help your cat by combing daily with a steel toothed comb.
If you ve cut the cat while trying to remove matted hair and the cut looks serious please see the vet.
Loose mats are the easiest to remove.
