TropiClean Tangle Remover spray, 473 ml is an American detangler for dogs and cats of all breeds. It penetrates mats and softens them so the coat is easier to brush out. According to the manufacturer, it cuts detangling time roughly in half. It contains purified water, hydrolysed vegetable protein, kiwi, mallow, chamomile and ginger extracts, a cationic emulsion and vitamin E. The spray also adds shine and makes brushing after a bath easier.
What it is and who makes it
TropiClean is an American brand of dog and cat care products: shampoos, conditioners, sprays and oral care. Tangle Remover is part of its grooming range and suits home care between groomer visits.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Hydrolysed vegetable protein | Strengthens and smooths the hair |
| Cationic emulsion | Reduces static, makes the hair slip |
| Kiwi, mallow, chamomile and ginger extracts | Coat and skin care |
| Vitamin E | Antioxidant, nourishes the coat |
| Fragrance | Scent |
How to use it
- Bathe your pet and rinse the coat thoroughly.
- Apply the spray to problem areas and massage it in until the coat is saturated.
- Dry the coat with a dryer or towel.
- Brush thoroughly, especially where mats form.
- For badly matted areas, apply more product directly to the mat, work it apart with your fingers, then brush with a slicker or brush.
Use as needed.
Pros
- Less clipping. Small mats can be worked out without scissors.
- Faster brushing. The coat becomes slippery and the comb doesn't pull.
- For dogs and cats. Suits all breeds.
- Plant extracts. Kiwi, mallow, chamomile and vitamin E.
- Large bottle. 473 ml lasts a long time with spot use.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- Won't fix felting. Tight mats close to the skin are safer clipped by a groomer.
- Contains fragrance. Patch-test on sensitive animals first.
- A comb is still needed. The spray makes the job easier, but you still have to brush.
- Protect the eyes. Don't spray on the face — apply to your hand and work it in.
Why mats form
Mats form when dead undercoat isn't brushed out and tangles with live hair. The usual spots are behind the ears, under the legs, on the back of the thighs, on the belly and under a collar or harness. The risk rises during shedding, after a bath without brushing, and in dogs that wear clothes. The best prevention is brushing 2–3 times a week. More in dog coat care at home and autumn shedding in dogs and cats.
What to brush with
Long coats need a slicker brush and a metal comb with wide and narrow teeth: the slicker removes undercoat and the comb checks that no mats remain. Brush in sections from the tips to the roots, holding the hair at the base so you don't pull the skin. For an example of a good comb, see our Artero Giant Comb review.
Who it suits
Long-haired dogs and cats, pets during shedding, after a bath, and pets that don't tolerate long brushing sessions. How to bathe a dog properly — see dog shampoo: how to choose and how to wash; other products are in shampoos and conditioners.
Verdict
TropiClean Tangle Remover is a handy spray that softens mats and makes brushing after a bath easier. It helps avoid scissors for small mats, but it doesn't replace regular brushing and won't handle tight felting near the skin.
Mats in cats
Cats often won't let you brush the belly and back legs, and mats there pull the skin and hurt. Work in short 3–5 minute sessions after play or a meal, when the cat is relaxed. Work on one mat at a time and reward your cat with a treat. Older and overweight cats groom themselves less well and need brushing more often. If there are many mats, it's better to have a hygienic clip at the groomer once and then maintain the coat with the spray and a comb.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the spray suitable for cats?
Yes, it's for dogs and cats of all breeds.
Does it need rinsing out?
No, apply it to the damp coat after bathing, dry and brush.
How often can it be used?
As needed, whenever the coat tangles.
Will it help with felting near the skin?
Tight mats near the skin are safer clipped by a groomer.
What should I brush with afterwards?
A slicker brush and a metal comb.
Can it be applied to a dry coat?
For bad mats, apply it directly to the mat and work it apart with your fingers.
