After my pet had a long, drawn-out battle with cancer, I realized that I needed to do a better job with understanding my pet's needs. I wanted to be there for them no matter what, so I started focusing on my other animals. They needed more love, attention, and medical care, so I focused on those things. I started taking them in for regular checkups and working on their physical appearance. I was able to spot a few other potentially catastrophic health conditions with my animals because of my actions. This blog is all about understanding your pet's needs.
Understanding Your Pet's Needs
How To Remove Matted Fur From Your Pet
Gisele Pereira
Matted fur typically happens on pets with medium to long coats. It can occur for various reasons, including the animal laying outside on burrs or other sticky material such as sap, and a lack of regular brushing or grooming. If you leave the mats without treatment, it's common for them to worsen. Matted fur tends to ensnarl surrounding fur, making the mat harder to remove. Larger mats can end up causing discomfort or pain for your pet. The best solution is to remove matted fur as soon as you notice it. Here are three methods.
Brushing
If the mat is small and new, you might be able to get the fur untangled just by brushing your pet. Use short strokes and work slowly. Be sure to watch if your pet seems too uncomfortable or in pain. You don't want to frighten them of being brushed.
Combing
More ensnarled matted fur may respond to careful combing. Purchase a special wide-toothed comb, possibly with a point on the opposite edge, made specifically for working out mats in the fur. Start from the outside and work your way toward the skin as each layer comes out smooth. For the purposes of your pet's comfort, be sure to position the comb at an angle instead of having the teeth straight down on your pet's skin.
Shaving
If the matted fur has become too tangled and knotted to get out with brushing or combing, you might need to shave your pet to remove the knots. You can accomplish this at home with the same kind of shaver that hairstylists use on clients, except with a longer comb attachment. If you've never used an electric shaver, or are unsure of your ability to safely shave your pet, bring him into a vet's office or pet grooming facility to have it done.
Never use scissors or any other straight edge razor to try to remove matted fur. Many animals have less sensitive skin than humans, and you could accidentally cut the skin without your pet even squirming about it. Then they would have a gaping wound that probably requires stitches to repair.
If you can't get the mats out on your own or your pet is too scared of the shaver, contact a pet grooming company. Some companies will sedate your pet so they can relax during the haircut.
Matted fur is a fact of life for most pets, whether they are indoor or outdoor pets. The best way to be sure you catch any snarls quickly is to groom your pet regularly with an appropriate bath and brushing schedule. Your pet will appreciate the attention, and you will have a much easier time of tending to any knots that do occur.
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