How should I deal with very matted cat fur?

Question

She's a short hair himalayan mix and overnight her fur is full of very matted fur (since she's been going outside). She's really feisty and hard to handle.

Answer 1

Call ahead at a vet's office to see if they do mat removal. Most vets will sedate the cat first and then cut off the mats while you're there holding your animal. It's safer than just going to a regular groomer, because they're not certified to sedate the cat, and if they slip with their tools while kitty's wrestling about, the cat can be injured. That's what I do with my cat, because she tends to get mats near her heart and on her abdomen, and I don't want to take the risk of accidentally injuring her or letting a well-intending groomer do it.

Answer 2

If she's too difficult for you to handle, I would really suggest taking her to a groomer. They could show you an easier way to take care of the fur, or perhaps how to calm her.

Sometimes it's just a matter of getting the cat used to being groomed and combed. It can be a lot of stress on both your parts, so I'd suggest just taking it slowly. Every day try to set aside some time to "practise" with her. Make it a positive experience. Use some treats to reward her, even if she only tolerates it for a few moments. Or use a toy to distract her.

It could also be that the mats in her fur are so painful that it hurts her to have them combed at. The area could get raw and might even get infected. If that's the case, then definately get her to a groomer ASAP. They would need to cut out the matted areas, sometimes they are just too tough to comb through. (like dreadlocks, almost)

I wish you the best of luck and hope all goes well!

Answer 3

Well, it sounds like your cat is just like mine. I have a VERY long-haired Turkish Angora, and he won't let me do ANYTHING to him! Oh, perhaps a little brushing (with my own hairbrush--not his, he hates it). Therefore, I have to take him to my groomer twice a year. He is strictly an indoor cat, but still gets BIG mats around his rear haunches, and these must be addressed. If not, your cat is in pain because they keep twisting tighter & tighter.

My groomer has been in business for over 25 years, and according to her, all I have to do is bring him in and LEAVE! If he can even hear my voice still in the building, he's going to act-up. Consequently, they just rave about what a good boy he is and always a pleasure to work on. I just stare in amazement and all I can say is: "Oh yes, Debbie, he's such a joy to work on--this would be why I pay YOU $50 a pop to do him because he'll tear me up." She informs me that they are all this way---Mommy isn't suppose to do anything to them. So, YES--by all means, pop for the money and get her to a good groomer (ask family & friends if they can recommend someone before just taking her to anyone). Then, it will be a BIG help if you keep her in the house. Good luck with the little "wild-Woman" from the owner of a "Wild-Man".

Answer 4

There are special combs you can get that cut through mats. You can usually find them @ petstores or sometimes large department stores. Even if she looks kinda raggedy for awhile the fur will grow back & meanwhile will be much more comfortable than the matted coat. You also might want to take her to a groomer for a bath & detangling.

Answer 5

That other answer is cruel and potentially deadly. She will need to be carefully groomed. I would suggest using blunt tipped scissors and a lot of patience and praise. Also, a two person attack can help or using a towel to wrap part of her while you work on the other part. Why must she go outside? Matts are only one reason not to unless she is on a lead with you. Professional groomers could shave her much quickly, but it will be costly and not every groomer will or should handle cats. They have very delicate skin that tears when it is broken, just like paper! Good luck.

Answer 6

If she's hard to handle, then I suggest putting some cat treats down for her, and just as she's finished eating, get someone to hold her while you brush your cat's fur, this will help prevent future molting and help stop fur getting worse. Eventually, if you keep doing this every time she needs brushing, your cat will gradually accept it. I have cats, and now they love having their fur brushed! Make sure you get a cat brush though.

Answer 7

You may need to take her to an experienced groomer for a body clip. If she won't let the groomer shave her down, she may need to be sedated and shaved by a vet. These breeds need daily brushing to maintain a mat-free coat and they don't do well outdoors with that long hair!

Answer 8

Don't let her go outside anymore.
Your cat will have a longer life expectancy...less chance of catching disease.
Find a pet groomer to help you.
You really can't leave Kitt's fur all matted.

Answer 9

If you can't afford a groomer get a bottle of kitty conditioner and lube her up! Lock yourself into the bathroom and brush brush brush! You'll bothe be slippery and tired but after you giver a bath, take a shower and clean the bathroom you'll be happy. I suggest a glass of wine as well. (For you not her. The first answer was obviously a joke and it cracks me up that no sense of humor shevts get all huffy. Relax guys.)

Answer 10

cut off the matted parts- careful, not too close to her skin. have somebody hold her down to prevent scratches.
my cat is a long-haired mixed breed and she is an outdoor cat too. she gets matted fur and since its not too often we just carefully cut it off. its painless and easy (if your cat is willing)