If you have an older cat try comparing then and now photos.
What does matted hair on a cat mean.
People usually get a double whammy dose of guilt when they accidentally cut their pet s skin.
Matting occurs more in spring and autumn when cats are molting.
If possible try to treat matts as soon as you see them.
Loose mats are the easiest to remove.
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.
If their formerly pristine sleek pelt is now dull and tufty it s time to wonder why this might be.
You need to cut the hair in the direction of the grain.
Thoroughly rub the powder into the tangle.
Your cat may not like this and you may need an assistant to hold the cat while you do this.
If your cat has sections of matted fur you can probably take care of the problem yourself.
As it happens there are several reasons a cat might groom less and poor coat condition is a clue they need medical help.
Bring your cat in for a full physical exam and blood and urine screen.
Causes of matted hair in cats.
Remove the matted hair.
The best way to trim the cat hair is to use a pair of small scissors.
Matted cat fur on the other hand damages tissue by preventing oxygen and moisture from reaching it.
Have your vet examine your kitty for any skin inflammation or irritation after the removal of serious mats.
Matted fur occurs more frequently in long haired cats but this doesn t mean it won t happen to short haired cats.
Keep in mind that shedding dead hair is normal and it s a process that cannot be avoided.
Since the hair is now long it will look a bit messy if you don t trim it carefully.
If you ve cut the cat while trying to remove matted hair and the cut looks serious please see the vet.
Pets groom themselves less as they age.
What causes matted cat hair.
This can lead to dry scaly and sometimes irritated skin.
When your cat notices this change they start to groom more which could increase the amount of hair they ingest and cause other health problems.
Once we know why your cat is getting matted we can improve his health.
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.
Rub some talc free baby powder gently into the mat.
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.
Other times it can be from accidents due to playing.
Step two is to help your cat by combing daily with a steel toothed comb.
Once you have bathed your cat hair the next step is to trim it.
They know the pet got too matted and they feel neglectful.
