How to Deal With Matted Fur

A mat pulls constantly on the skin and traps moisture against it. Severe matting is a welfare problem, not a cosmetic one.

Never bathe a matted coat

Water tightens mats dramatically and makes them nearly impossible to remove. Demat first, always.

Working one out

Hold the base of the mat against the skin so you are not pulling, then tease from the outer edge inward with fingers and a comb. Detangling spray helps.

When to clip instead

If a mat is tight to the skin, or the coat is matted over large areas, clipping is kinder and faster. Never use scissors — skin tents up into the mat and is very easily cut.

Prevention

Daily combing in long coats, especially behind the ears, in the armpits and around the collar, where friction creates mats first.