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My cat has matted fur and dandruff. What causes this and how to fix?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 7 years old | 22 lbs

Cat has matted fur, areas increasing. Used to be just on one side, I could work it out eventually. Then would be on other side. Now big clumps all up back. It's like the undercoat is all tied up in knots. He always did shed a great deal. Does appear to be dandruff like flakes on fur or when pet.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on January 15th, 2020

Poor Charlie! As a starting point, the matted areas will need to be shaved off with clippers - so you can either do this yourself, if you're comfortable, or take him to a veterinarian or groomer to have it done. Once the mats are out, you'll need to either brush him regularly (if he tolerates this), or have him shaved down regularly to prevent him from getting matted again.

If this is a new development for him, I would also recommend a vet visit to find out if there might be a reason that he's no longer grooming himself properly. This can happen due to pain, skin issues, or systemic illnesses such as hyperthyroidism or diabetes.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jenny, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on October 7th, 2017
It looks likes it may be infection and over groomed--where he is licking it constantly.. This may be from the mats in the fur that were pulling on the skin and causing inflammation. You can wipe the area clean with a wet clothe but she will need to be seen by your vet for medication to clear it
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Sarah Box, BVSc
Veterinarian
Published on June 19th, 2017
Poor Paws!! I suspect that maybe Paws has been having some difficulty grooming himself in this area. If the mat of fur will not come off easily you will likely need to have a groomer or your vet shave it off with clippers. To help prevent the problem recurring be sure to brush Paws regularly (daily is best) to help remove the dead fur from his coat that is accumulating into a mat. If Paws will tolerate it then occasional bathing can be helpful too.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ana M, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 24th, 2019
Thank you for submitting your question regarding Furguson. He will likely need what is known as a lion cut. This shaves the hair down to remove the mats. It can be performed by a groomer or a veterinary clinic. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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