What Causes Matted Cat Hair?

Matted fur is more than a cosmetic problem for cats. Mats can be so painful they restrict the cat’s movement, and cause him to scratch or even when touched. They can be a breeding ground for fleas and other parasites. Since mats prevent light and air from reaching the skin, the cat is prone to rashes and bacterial skin infections. Large, tight mats can also tear his skin.

  1. Shedding

    • Cats are especially prone to mats during the spring and fall shedding seasons. In long-haired cats, the dense undercoat next to the skin can become tangled in the shedding process, causing large, uncomfortable mats. Regular grooming with a flea comb, slicker brush or greyhound comb will prevent both mats and hairballs.

    Cottony Fur

    • Some long-haired cats have silky fur; others have fur that feels more like cotton. While silky hair doesn’t hold tangles, cottony fur tangles and mats easily, according to the Future Pets website. Cats with cottony fur need to be groomed often with a slicker brush and a greyhound comb to keep mats from forming.

    Dirt

    • Long-haired cats who go outside tend to collect dirt, bits of leaves and even mulch in their fur. This debris can cause the fur to clump, leading to tangles and mats if it’s not combed out promptly.

    Fleas

    • In some cats, fleas can also cause the fur to clump together and mat, according to Pet Grooming Pros. In addition to treating your cat for fleas, go over her with a flea comb. Combing will remove the mats and get rid of any remaining fleas. Put the hair you comb off in a glass of soapy water, or comb the cat outside to avoid infesting your house.

    Obesity

    • Even cats with short hair have difficulty grooming themselves and tend to develop greasy, matted fur if they’re overweight. Combing out the mats will make your cat more comfortable. Helping your cat lose weight will improve both his ability to groom and his overall health.

    Illness

    • Depression and just about any health problem, including arthritis, can cause a cat to stop grooming and develop unkempt fur and mats. Greasy fur and mats are also symptoms of hypothyroidism, or an under-active thyroid. Although hypothyroidism is rare in cats, it can occur in cats who have been treated with radioactive iodine for hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Treating the underlying condition will improve the condition of the cat’s skin and coat. In the meantime, gently combing out the mats will make him more comfortable.