Grooming Longhaired Cats: Tools, Routine and Preventing Mats
A flowing coat is beautiful, but it comes with commitment. Longhaired cats cannot always keep their fur tangle-free alone, and neglected coats mat quickly, causing pain, skin infections and hairballs. A regular routine keeps your cat comfortable and your home cleaner.
Which cats need extra care
Breeds with long, dense coats include the Persian, Maine Coon, Ragdoll, Norwegian Forest Cat, Birman and Siberian. Coat texture matters. Silky coats such as the Birman's mat less than cottony coats such as the Persian's. Older, overweight or arthritic cats may be unable to groom themselves, and need more help.
The right tools
- Wide-toothed steel comb, for gentle detangling
- Fine-toothed comb, to check for tangles close to the skin
- Slicker brush, to remove loose hair, used lightly
- Undercoat rake or de-shedding tool, for double coats, used gently
- Blunt-nosed grooming scissors, for trimming around the rear
- Mat splitter, for carefully breaking up loose mats
- Cat-safe detangling spray or cornstarch, to loosen knots
- Treats
Avoid clippers and sharp scissors near the skin.
A simple routine
- Pick a calm time, such as after a meal or play.
- Start with a comb, working in small sections, from the ends of hairs towards the skin.
- Hold the base of the hair near the skin when untangling, so it does not pull.
- Check problem areas. Behind the ears, under the chin, under the legs, on the belly, around the tail and along the britches.
- Finish with a slicker or soft brush.
- Reward. Give treats and praise.
See how to brush a cat for general technique.
Frequency
- Very long or dense coats: daily.
- Moderate longhairs: three to four times a week.
- Shedding seasons, spring and autumn: more often.
Short sessions of five to ten minutes are better than a long one.
Handling mats
Small mats can sometimes be teased out.
- Apply a bit of cornstarch or detangling spray.
- Hold the base of the mat, and gently work out the knot with fingers, a comb or a mat splitter.
- Never pull or cut close to the skin.
Large or tight mats, or any mats close to the skin, need professional help. Cats' skin is thin and tears easily. See how to remove mats from cat fur.
Bathing
Many longhaired cats rarely need baths, but some, such as Persians, benefit from periodic baths to remove oils. Brush thoroughly first, since water tightens mats. See how to bathe a cat. Dry completely and comb afterward.
Sanitary trims
Longer fur around the rear can collect feces and urine. Trim carefully with blunt scissors, or ask a groomer or vet. A sanitary trim keeps the cat clean and prevents skin irritation.
Shedding and hairballs
Regular grooming removes loose fur that would be swallowed during self-grooming. Hairballs may still occur. See cat vomiting causes. Frequent vomiting, retching without result or loss of appetite needs a vet visit.
Eyes, ears, nails and teeth
Wipe tear stains gently, check ears and trim nails. See how to clean a cat's ears, how to trim cat nails and cat dental disease.
Teaching a cat to enjoy grooming
Begin when the cat is young. Pair touch with treats, keep sessions short and quit before the cat gets annoyed. For adult cats, go slowly, using a soft brush and plenty of rewards. See how to socialize a kitten.
A weekly schedule
Monday: a quick comb of the whole coat. Wednesday: a focused check of mat-prone spots with a fine comb. Friday: a full session with a slicker brush, plus a quick sanitary check. Weekend: a gentle review, a trim if needed and a treat. Writing the plan on a calendar helps you stay consistent, and short, frequent sessions are easier on both of you.
Diet and coat health
A complete, high-quality diet helps the coat stay glossy and less prone to tangles. Omega-3 fatty acids may help skin and coat, so ask your vet about suitable foods. See how to read a cat food label. Keep your cat at a healthy weight so it can reach its own back and hindquarters.
Common mistakes
Brushing only the top layer, skipping the belly and britches, pulling hard on tangles and bathing before combing out mats are the usual errors. Slow down, work in layers and keep sessions positive. If you struggle, ask a groomer to show you the technique once, and then keep it up at home.
Professional help
Mobile groomers and clinics can help with difficult coats. Choose someone experienced with cats. Use the US vet directory to find a vet if skin looks red or irritated.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I brush a longhaired cat?
Several times a week, and daily for some breeds or in shedding season.
What tools do I need?
A wide-toothed comb, a slicker brush, a fine comb, blunt-nosed scissors and treats.
Should I shave my longhaired cat?
Only if advised, such as for severe matting. Shaving can affect the coat and skin.
Do longhaired cats need baths?
Occasionally. Many do well with brushing alone.
Sources and further reading
We link to recognised organizations so you can check the basics for yourself. We have no commercial relationship with any site listed here.
- ASPCA cat careEveryday care, behavior and safety basics for cats.
- American Veterinary Medical Association: pet owner resourcesPolicy-level guidance from the national veterinary association.
- Fear Free PetsLow-stress handling and care for dogs and cats.
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