Get a Comb Use a quality metal pet comb to untangle fur. Pull it through slowly, making sure the comb touches the skin lightly, so you will be able to find any hair mats if they are there. Pay attention to behind the ears, under the collar, and under the armpits. You may also use a slicker-type brush, but it is not nearly as effective at catching mats. Esther uses a comb like the one pictured.
Make Combing/Brushing a Regular Routine At least once a week, do a full-coat brushout. Place your dog on a non-skid mat on top of a table, bench, or any other flat surface. Stay next to them the whole time so they don't fall. Handle your dog's feet and touch its face, and make sure your comb touches the skin lightly as you brush. Be firm and gentle, and give treats and praise when the task is done. The younger you start, the easier it will all be, and a dog of any age can learn. For cats, many of them really enjoy being petted already, so moving to a comb from a hand will be only a small step for you.
Trim Nails For Healthy Feet When a pet's nails grow too long, not only can they catch on carpets, but they can change the way the paw hits the ground, and also grow into the paw pads. Use a sharp nail trimmer. If your pet's nail tips appear to be getting crushed when you attempt to cut, you need a sharper nail trimmer.
Keep Combing When it's Cold In the wintertime, it's fine to leave the coat long for insulation against the cold. However, the haircoat must be combed as regularly as in the other seasons. Matted fur is poor insulation and can even trap moisture, causing chills, and hair mats are also extremely uncomfortable, due to the pulling of the skin by the matted fur. If you want, it IS ok to bathe your pet in the winter. Just make sure he or she is dried off afterwards.
If you find any mats on your pet, the best bet is to take him or her to the groomer. Some people try to cut out mats and end up cutting their pet's skin. Once the mats are removed, you can maintain it much more easily.
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