Why cats get mats
A mat is a tangled clump of loose fur and skin oils that tightens against the skin. Common reasons include:
- Reduced grooming. Older, overweight, or arthritic cats may not be able to reach certain areas, especially the back and hips. Dental pain or illness can also lead a cat to groom less.
- Loose undercoat. Shed fur caught under the top coat can twist into knots. See cat shedding season.
- Long or dense coats. Breeds such as Persians, Maine Coons, and Ragdolls tangle more easily.
- Friction and moisture. Areas under a collar or harness, and spots that get wet and are not dried well, can tangle.
Why matting can appear suddenly
If a cat that was always tidy suddenly has mats, look for a reason. Pain, stiffness, dental problems, being overweight, or general illness may be stopping normal grooming. A sudden change in grooming is worth mentioning to your vet.
Are mats painful?
They can be. Mats pull on the skin when the cat moves, and tight ones can cause irritation or skin infection underneath. Larger mats can also hide sores. Cats may also react strongly to being handled in a matted area.
How to work out a small, loose mat
This only applies to small mats that sit away from the skin. If your cat is calm and the mat is easy to separate:
- Hold the fur at the base of the mat, between the mat and the skin, so your cat is not pulled.
- Gently pull the knot apart with your fingers, working from the edges inward.
- Use a wide-toothed metal comb, starting at the tips and working toward the base in small steps.
- Keep sessions short, and offer breaks or treats.
- Stop immediately if your cat growls, hisses, or tries to bite.
Tools and products
A wide-toothed comb and a slicker brush are the usual basics. Dematting tools and combs exist, but they have blades or teeth that can injure thin cat skin, so use them only if you are comfortable and the mat is clearly away from the skin. Products labeled as detangling sprays for cats can help some coats, but make sure any product is made for cats, because cats lick their coats.
Cornstarch and oils
You may see advice to rub cornstarch or a small amount of oil into a mat to loosen it. Evidence for these methods is limited and they are not a requirement. Remember that cats ingest what is on their coat, so ask your vet before using oils or powders, and avoid anything scented or not pet-safe.
Why not to cut mats out with scissors
Cat skin is thin and can be pulled up into the base of a mat, which makes it very easy to cut accidentally. Even a careful cut can cause a serious wound. If a mat cannot be gently teased out, do not cut it. Ask a professional.
When to go to a vet or groomer
- The mat is tight against the skin or covers a large area (sometimes called a pelt)
- There is redness, a smell, sores, or discharge
- Your cat is in pain or will not allow handling
- Mats keep returning
Pelts typically need to be clipped by a vet or an experienced groomer, and some cats need sedation to do it safely. A vet visit can also rule out why the cat stopped grooming.
Preventing mats
- Brush regularly, especially long-haired cats and during heavy shedding.
- Check hard-to-reach areas such as the armpits, belly, behind the ears, and the base of the tail.
- Keep older or less flexible cats comfortable, and help them groom.
- Get weight and health concerns checked.
- A bath is not a fix for mats. Water can tighten them, so see how often to bathe a cat before bathing a matted cat.
If skin underneath looks bald or irritated, see our guide to cat hair loss.