Home Remedy for Tangles

When your pet's hair becomes tangled it can usually be brushed out, but those tangles get worse if left unattended. Removing these mats is easier said than done, but there are a few home remedies that can make them more manageable and keep you from having to take your dog in for a professional grooming.

  1. Comb

    • Try combing out the mat slowly as a first step. Do not try to comb out the mat all at once. Work on the outermost area of the tangled hair and loosen it, working your way down to see if you can release all the hair and solve the problem. This should be done slowly and gently because your pet will certainly feel the pull of the comb and it could be painful for them.

    Clip

    • Cut the mat out entirely if you cannot successfully use one of the other methods, but be sure to protect the animal's skin by placing a comb between the tangle and the skin and use electric clippers or scissors to carefully trim away the tangled hair, according to Dogster.com.

    Baby Oil

    • Gently massage baby oil into the tangled hair to help release the mat. Do not rub in circles, as this may lead to pulling more hair into the mat, according to HealthGuidance.org. Use a brush or pick to help work tangles out, working from the outside of the tangled hair, toward the skin.

    Conditioner

    • Apply the same conditioner you would use on your own hair into the tangled hair to help release your pet's mat. Just as your conditioner helps with tangles and management of your hair, the same will be true for your pet. In addition, you may be able to comb out minor tangles easily following the application of the conditioner.

    Corn Starch

    • Apply dry powdered cornstarch directly to a large mat to make it easier to work out with a comb. Work the starch into the fur with your fingers while trying to separate the clump into smaller sections, according to EarthClinic.com.

    Prevention

    • Take preventative measures to keep your pet's hair in good condition. Regular grooming will likely prevent tangles from occurring and will keep your pet's appearance at its best.

      In addition to regular washing and brushing, apply mink oil to your pet's coat by lightly spraying a mist of the oil over the animal's entire body. This will help prevent the recurrence of mats and make their hair more manageable and healthy, according to HealthGuidance.org.