How to Get Rid of Tangles on Long-Haired Cats

Petting a cat̵7;s long, silky fur can be relaxing for both owner and pet, until you run your hand across a tangle of matted fur. Long-haired cats need daily grooming to keep their fur and skin in top condition. Without consistent brushing, long-haired cats can develop painful mats in their fur. Gentle grooming can restore your cat̵7;s coat to a healthy softness.

Things You'll Need

  • Talcum powder
  • Slicker or dematting brush
  • Scissors
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Instructions

    • 1

      Groom your cat when it is calm or sleepy. Some cats rebel against removing their matted fur.

    • 2

      Brush around the tangles. Removing any dead hair out of the coat will make the detangling process easier.

    • 3

      Sprinkle talcum powder on each knot. Work out the tangle with your fingers, if possible, but do not actually pull out the mat.

    • 4

      Brush out the tangles with a slicker or dematting brush. Work it through your cat̵7;s fur very gently. The brush can actually injure your cat̵7;s skin and pulling out the mat can be painful.

    • 5

      Cut out the mat with scissors if it is larger than your thumb. Trim tangled hair as close as you can, without cutting the cat's skin.