FURminator adjustable dematting tool removes mats from dogs and cats and comes from the well-known FURminator brand. It's effective on most coat types — short and long — across different animals. Its key feature is the adjustable blade: the FURextender button lets you set it for coat length and type, and a sliding tab locks it in place. The blade is made of strong, scratch-resistant stainless steel, and the ergonomic non-slip handle sits comfortably in your hand.
Why mats need removing
A mat is dead hair that didn't shed in time and has tangled together. It pulls on the skin with every movement, air can't reach the skin beneath, and the skin can become sore and inflamed. Mats cause animals real discomfort, and if they're left, they get harder and harder to remove. They most often form behind the ears, in the armpits, on the belly, on the "trousers" and tail, especially during shedding. More about seasonal coat change in autumn shedding in dogs and cats.
How the dematter works
The blades split a dense mat into thin strands without cutting healthy hair down to the root. After a few passes, small mats fall out on their own or become small enough to comb out with a regular comb. The adjustable blade means you can use the tool on a cat's short coat and a dog's long coat alike.
Key specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| For | dogs and cats |
| Coat type | short and long |
| Blade | stainless steel, adjustable |
| Adjustment | FURextender button and locking tab |
| Handle | ergonomic, non-slip |
| Use | dry coat only |
Pros
- Adjustable blade. Adapts to coat length and type.
- Versatile. Suits short- and long-coated dogs and cats.
- Strong steel. The blade resists scratches and wear.
- A comfortable handle. Ergonomic and non-slip.
- Preserves the coat. Splits the mat rather than leaving a bald patch.
- A trusted brand. FURminator is a well-known grooming tool maker.
Cons
- Sharp blades. Take care, especially with cats' thin skin.
- Dry coat only. Wet mats can't be removed this way.
- Not for pelted coats. Solid felting close to the skin is safer to clip off at a groomer's.
- Doesn't replace a comb. You still need to comb the coat afterwards.
How to use it
Step 1. Before you start, press the FURextender button, set the blade to the right position for the coat length and lock it with the sliding tab. Step 2. Pull the dematter through the tangled hair with quick, firm strokes until the mat breaks up. Hold the skin at the base of the mat with your fingers so it doesn't pull, and work from the skin towards the ends of the hair. Comb out any small remnants with a regular comb. Only work on a dry coat. If there are many mats, split the job into several short sessions and praise your pet.
How to prevent mats
The best protection is regular brushing: several times a week for long-haired pets, and daily during shedding. Before brushing, tangled areas are easier to handle with a spray such as TropiClean Tangle Remover, and during shedding TropiClean Deshedding shampoo helps. Home grooming tips are in caring for your dog's coat at home. For trimming long coats, clippers such as the Ferplast GRO 5776 come in handy.
Who it suits
Owners of long- and semi-long-haired dogs and cats that regularly get mats — from Yorkies and Spitz to Maine Coons and Persians. More tools are in the grooming tools section.
Verdict
The FURminator adjustable dematter is a handy, durable tool that quickly splits mats without leaving bald patches. The adjustable blade makes it versatile for dogs and cats with different coats. It needs careful use on a dry coat only, and solid felting close to the skin is best left to a groomer.
FAQ
Can it be used on a wet coat?
No, the dematter is used on a dry coat only.
Is it suitable for cats?
Yes, for short- and long-coated dogs and cats.
How is the blade adjusted?
With the FURextender button; a sliding tab locks the position.
Does it cut healthy hair?
It splits the mat into strands rather than cutting hair down to the root.
What do I do with what's left of the mat?
Comb it out with a regular comb.
Can it remove solid felting?
Dense felting close to the skin is safer to clip off at a groomer's.
What is the blade made of?
Scratch-resistant stainless steel.
