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What's the best way to safely remove painful mats from my cat's hair?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My cat is having extremely painful matts in her hair. I need urgent help.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 23rd, 2017

If it is truly just matted fur with normal skin underneath, you can use clippers with a very short (40) blade close to the skin to remove the mats. If he won't tolerate this should be able to find a groomer who will clip cats. If the skin underneath the mat does not look normal you should see a veterinarian: sometimes mats can form over a skin mass or infection.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 29th, 2017

    The best way to get rid of these mats is to remove them with electric clippers made for pets. For some cats this is easily done; others make it very difficult. In either way, it's best to ask your local groomer, or vet office to help you do this the first time. You can do it yourself later if it's safe/effective. For more information about removing mats, I recommend you read the article at the link below. https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-comb-out-a-mat-from-your-cat-s-fur/ I hope that helps and all is well with Rosa.

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    Answered By Jenny, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 31st, 2017

    If they are matted down to the skin where brushing does not work, you generally have to find clippers to cut beneath it but be very careful as cats have very thin skin.. Do not try scissors as this will result in cutting the skin. A groomer can get beneath the mat if needed

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