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My senior cat won't groom. How do I safely remove matted fur?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 8 lbs

My older cat appears to have altogether stopped grooming herself. Is there anything I can do to help decrease the amount of clumpy, matted hair she has? I'm fearful to cut or shave any matted hair since I don't want to cut her skin.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on February 23rd, 2020

Definitely don't cut! You are very likely to cut the skin if you use scissors. You can use shaving clippers or take Calico to a groomer. Once the mats are gone, you will need to brush her daily to remove loose hairs to prevent the mats from coming back. I would also recommend having Calico evaluated by her vet to see if she has arthritis preventing her from being able to groom. Medications may make her more comfortable.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Rebecca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 14th, 2018

    Thanks for using PetCoach. If Lolly will allow multiple brushing sessions with a brush such as the furminator (https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/furminator-short-hair-deshedding-tool-for-large-cats you may be able to brush the mats out. If painful, or adherred to the skin then it may be necessary to shave her down. If you are uncomfortable doing so, many vet clinics can help by shaving her. you are correct to not use scissors - it is very easy to cut the skin when cats are matted. Once she is mat free, brush her daily to help prevent this again. If she is not grooming well, this can be a sign of illness and I would recommend a vet visit for a senior check up for Lolly. Good luck, I hope this helps.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 21st, 2018

    Poor kitty. I suggest you schedule an appointment with your veterinarian who can sedate your kitty and then clip him. This would be the least aggravating way to do it. Once he is shorn you should start combing/brushing him regularly so he gets used to it and he never has to have mattes again. Also have the vet check his teeth as he may not be able to groom himself properly if he has bad gingivitis and/or rotten teeth.

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