Matted fur can be more than just an unsightly inconvenience—it can also lead to discomfort and even health issues for your cat. While cats are known for their self-grooming habits, there are times when their natural defenses aren’t enough. In this guide, we explore what causes matting, how to safely remove mats, and the best ways to prevent them from returning.

What Leads to Matted Fur in Cats?

While cats usually groom themselves effectively using their tongue, teeth, and paws, various factors can interfere with their grooming abilities and lead to matting. Understanding the root causes is the first step to tackling the problem.

1. Shedding and Undercoat Buildup Cats naturally shed fur, especially during seasonal changes. If the loose undercoat is not removed through regular brushing, it can clump and form mats. Long-haired cats like Persians or Maine Coons are especially prone to this, though even short-haired breeds with thick undercoats aren’t immune.

2. High Humidity Environmental factors such as moisture and humidity can cause fur to clump more easily. During the damp spring and fall seasons, when shedding increases, mats are more likely to develop, especially if grooming isn’t part of the routine.

3. Skin Conditions and Infections Areas of skin affected by infections or wounds can trap hair and moisture, encouraging matting. These mats can prevent airflow, worsening the underlying condition.

4. Breed-Specific Challenges Breeds with thick coats—such as Himalayans, Ragdolls, Norwegian Forest Cats, and Siberians—have higher grooming needs. Without proper maintenance, their lush fur can quickly become tangled and matted.

5. Excess Sebum and Body Oils Medical conditions like hyperthyroidism or seborrhea can cause excessive oil production, which binds hair together, resulting in mats. This is also more common in intact male cats or those with hormonal imbalances.

6. Reduced Mobility Due to Age or Weight Older or overweight cats may have difficulty reaching certain parts of their bodies. Commonly affected areas include the back, hips, and base of the tail—regions where mats frequently develop due to a lack of grooming.

Preventing Matted Fur: What You Can Do

Prevention is always easier than treating already-formed mats. Here are three essential steps to keep your cat’s coat in great shape:

1. Establish a Regular Grooming Routine Brushing your cat several times a week—daily for long-haired breeds—is one of the most effective ways to prevent matting. Regular grooming removes loose fur, distributes natural oils, and keeps the coat smooth and clean. Use brushes suited to your cat’s coat, such as slicker brushes or wide-tooth combs.

If your cat has an oily coat or skin condition, consult your veterinarian before introducing regular baths with a groomer-approved shampoo.

2. Professional Grooming Support Some cats benefit from seasonal professional grooming, especially during the peak shedding periods of spring and fall. Services like undercoat thinning or “de-shedding” can be particularly helpful. Cats with especially thick or high-maintenance coats may require professional grooming up to four times per year.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet Proper nutrition plays a significant role in skin and coat health. Adding omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to your cat’s diet can promote stronger, healthier fur. Consider foods with cold-water fish oils or supplements recommended by your veterinarian. Managing your cat’s weight is also crucial, as excess weight can restrict grooming flexibility and contribute to mat formation.

Safe and Effective Mat Removal in Three Steps

Once mats have formed, it’s important to remove them safely. Avoid scissors or oils, which can cause injury or worsen the matting.

Step 1: Gather the Right Tools For minor mats, your hands may be all you need to gently separate tangled hair. For more stubborn mats, reach for the right grooming tools. Metal-toothed brushes, such as slicker brushes, dematting rakes, or skip-tooth combs, are ideal.

Step 2: Detangle with Care Choose a calm time to groom, when your cat is relaxed. Isolate the matted section by separating it from the surrounding fur. Place one hand gently on your cat to stabilize them and use your other hand to gently work the comb under the mat. Work slowly and in small sections to avoid pulling the skin.

Step 3: Know When to Call the Groomer If the mat is located in sensitive areas such as the armpits, behind the ears, or near the tail, or if the mat is too tight or large to safely detangle, it’s time to consult a professional groomer. They have the tools and experience to safely remove mats without causing injury or stress to your cat.

Conclusion: Healthy Coat, Happy Cat

Matted fur isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it can cause significant discomfort and even health problems for your cat. By understanding the causes and implementing a regular grooming routine, a nutritious diet, and occasional professional care, you can help your cat maintain a healthy, mat-free coat.

Always observe your cat’s grooming habits and physical condition. If your cat seems to be struggling to groom themselves or has frequent matting issues, it could be a sign of an underlying health problem. In such cases, consult your veterinarian for further guidance.

Taking proactive steps in coat care not only keeps your cat comfortable—it also strengthens your bond through the trust and attention built during grooming time.