Matted Fur: Causes, Risks, Treatment & How to Prevent Matting

What is Matting?

“Matting” refers to densely tangled clumps of fur in a pet’s coat. If a coat is not properly or frequently brushed, hair can become embedded into larger masses. Sometimes mats can be combed out, but if left too long, they can cause serious discomfort and harm to the animal. Mats can form in both the outer coat and the deeper undercoat. Sometimes severe matting forms in the undercoat and goes unnoticed beneath a heavy outer coat. If left unattended, a pet’s coat can become entirely matted. This is known as “pelting”. When a coat becomes pelted, the safest and most humane option is generally to shave the coat short.

What Causes Matting?

In most cases, matted fur is caused by one primary reason: absent, inadequate or infrequent brushing.

For cats, factors such as disability, obesity, a greasy coat or old age may prevent them from grooming themselves properly, which can also lead to matting.

For all pets, several factors can contribute to mats forming or worsening. Seasonal coat changes, activity levels, friction from harnesses or clothing, and contact with water can all increase the likelihood of matting. Genetic and physical traits also play a significant role. Pets with low-shedding coats, such as Poodles and Doodle breeds, and those with thick undercoats are naturally more prone to matting and therefore have more extensive grooming needs.

The best way to prevent matting is to maintain a regular professional grooming schedule, brush thoroughly down to the skin, and contact your groomer as soon as you notice a mat starting to form. And don’t worry, we’re here to help with all of it!

What Are the Risks of Matting?

Matting can have a range of consequences for your pet’s health and wellbeing, including:

• Skin issues: Matted fur prevents proper air circulation to the skin, which can contribute to hotspots and skin infections.

• Parasites: Fleas, ticks, maggots and other parasites can hide beneath matted fur, causing additional health complications.

• Restricted blood supply: Severe matting can restrict blood flow, particularly around extremities.

• Bruising and discomfort: Mats pull and bind the fur, placing constant pressure on the skin underneath and causing discomfort when your pet moves or lies down.

• Trapped moisture: A matted coat traps moisture and prevents the skin and coat from drying properly, potentially causing significant skin problems.

• Hair follicle damage: Long-term matting can damage hair follicles, potentially causing hair loss or causing the coat to grow back with a different texture or colour.

• Restricted movement: Matting can prevent the full extension of movement, placing additional pressure on joints and muscles.

How is Matting Treated?

Sometimes a small amount of matting can be dematted by a professional groomer. In these cases, it’s best to come in as soon as you notice small mats so they can be addressed before they spread.

However, in cases of compacted or extensive matting, the most effective and humane solution is usually a very short haircut, commonly referred to as a shave down. And this often means going very short, as the blade much be short enough to get underneath the matting.

It is important to understand that grooming a severely matted coat involves inherent risks and requires a careful, methodical approach. Specialised equipment, along with the necessary experience and expertise, is crucial during this process. Matted coats are more susceptible to cuts, irritation, haematomas and emotional changes during removal. Despite these risks, removing a matted coat is the most compassionate and beneficial option for the animal’s wellbeing.

Why Do Groomers Ask You to Sign a Matting Consent Form?

RISKS - If your pet requires matting removal, you will likely be asked to read and sign a Matting Consent Form before the groomer proceeds. As outlined above, removing a matted coat carries additional risks. Mats sit tightly against the skin and can be pulled into the clipper blade, increasing the risk of the skin being nicked or cut during removal. Matting can also hide underlying skin conditions, irritation or injuries that may not be visible until the coat is removed.

COST - Whether it is dematting mats or shaving lots of matting off, all matting carries inclreased costs. This is because it takes more time and expertise from the groomer, puts more wear and tear on grooming tools, and as it is more risky to do it helps the expenses of grooming insurance etc. 

CLIENT REACTION - What's more, people have been known to get a shock by how different their pet looks after matting removal and can become quite upset. I'm sure you've seen videos of "What has the groomer done to my dog" online? Well spoiler, 99% of the time the dog was matted.  Even though the groomer is often left with no option but to shave, the form make sure all parties are on the same page before proceeding.

The consent form ensures pet parents understand why matting removal is being recommended, the additional risks involved, increased costs (as it take more time, expertise, and damage on tools) and what you may need to look out for afterwards. 

After Care

After being clipped, animals often experience a remarkable transformation, and it’s truly heartwarming to see their newfound comfort. They gain improved mobility, experience relief from the pulling of the coat and enjoy the sensation of air on their skin again. Many pets really do emerge from their shells once the matting is removed.

However, there are also some things to look out for:

• Skin sensitivity: Pets may experience itchiness after grooming. Monitor excessive scratching or licking that could lead to further skin irritation.

• Aural haematoma: Pets with closely clipped ears may flap them due to the new sensation. If this occurs, your groomer may recommend securing the ears against the head temporarily using appropriate bandaging or a Happy Hoodie. 

• Sunburn: With the coat clipped very short, pets may be more susceptible to sunburn.

• Underlying conditions: Removing matting can reveal skin or health concerns underneath the coat that were previously hidden and may require veterinary attention.

• Temperature regulation: Transitioning from a heavy coat to a very short one can make it more difficult for your pet to regulate their temperature. They may benefit from a jumper, blanket or heating source. However, avoid leaving clothing on for extended periods as friction can contribute to further matting as the coat regrows.

• Emotional overwhelm: Removing a severely matted coat can be a significant experience for a pet and they may initially feel a little unsure about their new sensation. Give them some extra comfort and reassurance while they adjust.

A Fresh Start!

We understand that discovering your pet is matted can be emotional. It’s natural to feel confused or upset, but the important thing is that removing the matting gives your pet the opportunity for a happier, healthier and more comfortable future. We all learn and grow, and now your pet has a fresh coat, giving you the perfect opportunity for a fresh start with grooming. Establishing a regular professional grooming schedule and maintaining the coat at home will help prevent matting from returning. If you ever need advice, your Uncanny Animals groomer is always here to help.

Learn How to Brush Your Dog at Home

Not sure where to start? We have put together a guide with our tips and tricks for brushing your dog properly at home and helping prevent future matting here: How to Brush Your Dog: The Best Tips & Tricks!