Cats are notoriously self-cleaning pets, but that doesn't mean they don't need our help to keep themselves clean and healthy. Particularly if they are elderly, infirm, overweight and with long hair they have a tendency to have felted hair which can turn into tangles or knotted locks. This type of hair is not only unsightly, but can also cause discomfort to the animal, contribute to skin disorders or harbor worms, mites or other parasites. Regular brushing and routine examinations are the best way to prevent tangling in the fur, but there are also home remedies to fix the problem if it occurs. If they don't work or if you are unsure if you are able to handle them safely, consult a grooming salon or veterinarian.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Remove Tangles and Knots
Step 1. Keep the cat calm
Removing tangled fur can be time-consuming and painful, so many cats may not respond well. It is imperative that the animal feels comfortable right away (such as following a good meal) and stays that way while you remove the knots and tangles. It is better to stop the operation and resume it later than to force a scared or angry cat.
If you have been used to grooming your cat since he was little, he will be more inclined to accept this type of operation. If he refuses to submit to it and scratches you or runs away, it's best to go to a grooming salon or veterinarian
Step 2. Locate and inspect the nodes
Some tangles, such as knotted locks, on the back or sides, may be clearly visible, while others may be in hidden areas: the latter are the least important to remove. Look for them behind the ears, in the groin area, between the hind legs, behind the front legs, under the neck and around the anus.
If the tangle is quite large - more than the tip of your thumb - it's probably best to seek professional help. If you find any signs of irritation or lesions on the surrounding skin, contact your veterinarian
Step 3. Untie the knots with your fingers
It's the most convenient thing to start with - use your fingers to untie the smallest knots and divide the tangles into small, manageable areas. This method is probably the least painful and stressful for the animal.
- According to some experts, it is best to use a detangling spray or shampoo before trying to remove knots; others find it not very helpful. If you choose to use one, be sure to opt for pet-specific products.
- Sprinkling the tangled area with some cornstarch or talcum powder can help untangle it.
Step 4. Try brushing the knots
Before moving on to more specialized equipment, after trying with your fingers you can try brushing the fur with a cat brush or a wide-toothed comb. With your free hand, grab the fur closest to the skin below the tangled area, to avoid tugging, and proceed with short, quick but gentle brushing. Brush towards the end of the hair, away from the skin, starting at the outer edge of the tangle and working back towards the hairline.
- Do not overdo it. Tugging at the knotted hair with the brush is not a pleasant experience for the cat and consequently will not be for you - switch to other methods instead.
- Although some cat lovers may not like to know, the articles on how to brush dogs may contain useful tips for cats as well.
Step 5. Use special tools for the most stubborn knots
If you can't untangle the knots with your fingers or with the regular brush, you still have other options available. Each of us trusts in different tools (such as the famous Furminator brushes), so make several attempts: of course it is also possible to consult your trusted grooming salon or veterinarian for advice.
Known tools like curry combs, hair removers, or knotters can help break down large tangled areas into smaller, more manageable pieces. These are tools that have a sharp blade between the teeth and detangle the hair by means of a saw movement. They are generally safer than other cutting tools because the blades are not exposed, but still need to be handled with caution. Once you have divided the tangle into smaller pieces, start using your fingers and / or the brush and comb again
Step 6. Trim the fur if the other methods have not worked
While it is the safest way to get rid of a tangle of hair, it should be your last choice. Not only will it leave a shaved stain that will take months to return to normal, but you could also risk injuring the animal. Cats have thinner and more delicate skin than that of humans, which can be easily cut by scissors, blades or even the friction of the hair clipper. If you don't know what to do, take your cat to a professional.
- A razor comb (also called a detangling comb) is like a regular one, but has recessed blades that cut away the hair. Use it in the same quick, short motion as a regular comb, making sure to counter any tugging with your free hand and always brush away from the pet's skin.
- The clipper can do a quick job, but be sure not to rub it against your cat's skin - friction and heat can damage it.
- While scissors may seem like the most obvious choice, they are usually not recommended for non-professionals, as the risk of accidental cuts or punctures is quite high. If you decide to use them, always make sure to keep the comb or fingers between the blades and the cat's skin.
Step 7. Have a professional do the work
If you have any doubts about your ability to fix the problem without hurting the cat, stop. Tangles often form in sensitive areas, such as the abdomen, underneath the neck or around the genitals - don't risk making a mistake that could have serious consequences.
A grooming salon deals with similar issues on a daily basis and should be able to handle yours in most cases. Veterinarians also regularly remove tangles of fur - you should consult one especially if you have concerns about a possible skin disorder or other problems related to felted hair
Part 2 of 2: Preventing Felted Hair
Step 1. Know your cat's needs
A young, active and healthy short-haired animal is almost certainly able to take care of its own grooming and needs little assistance to prevent knots from forming. Conversely, an older, overweight, long-haired animal needs regular (even daily) care to prevent the formation of felted hair.
There are articles online that contain several guidelines on how to do proper grooming and prevent knots from forming
Step 2. Brush it regularly
Even if your cat cleans itself effectively, establishing a good grooming routine will make untangling the fur (in case it is needed later) an easy and enjoyable task. It is best to start as early as possible when the cat is still a puppy, so that it becomes a normal and possibly enjoyable activity.
- Brushing a shorthair cat is a rather simple activity that can be done with several brushes, although many prefer the "brush glove" with rubber teeth. Always proceed in the direction of the hair.
- Long-haired animals require more specialized tools, such as the "hair removal rake" (a large brush with metal bristles) and a comb with long teeth. Use both of them to reach both the surface hair and the fur that is hidden deeper. Gently comb the hair over the abdomen and up towards the chin, then part along the middle of the back and comb along each side.
Step 3. Wash your cat only as needed
There is no doubt: cats need regular grooming, but not to be washed as frequently. Bathing, especially if it is not followed by immediate and complete drying, can create new tangles and knots. Basically, only bathe your cat if it is really very dirty, smeared or has a very unpleasant odor.
There is nothing to be ashamed of in giving a grooming salon this chore
Step 4. Snap the knots in the bud
They are also likely to form with regular grooming, especially in long-haired animals. Newly formed knots are easier to remove, so check the coat regularly, even daily, while grooming your pet.
- Focus especially on the most problematic areas such as the groin, the back, the underside of the neck, behind the front legs, between the hind legs and behind the ears.
- Use this regular checkup to check for wounds or if the skin is damaged. Check for cuts, bruises, cocoons, swellings, redness or other and contact your veterinarian if you find anything out of the ordinary.
