Matts behind the ears

**Ashley** · 21st May 2008, 07:51 PM

We will be taking on a rescue soon and I have been made aware that he has quite big matts behind his ears. He's not a big fan of being groomed, and I was wondering what everyone would suggest. Ive not really had to deal with this with Holly as she doesnt mind being groomed so hasnt had any matts.
I was told I could leave them as they will eventually shed.... is that right? I didnt think it was correct and I dont fancy leaving them there either as I feel it just screams out.. "Helloooo fleas... come nest in here..."

Any ideas anyone?

**Barbara Nixon** · 21st May 2008, 07:55 PM

I would imagine that the matts could only get worse, if left, but I'm not sure what to suggest. if they are really bad, perhaps your vet would suggest light sedation.

**Cavvygirl** · 21st May 2008, 08:20 PM

Our eldest detested being groomed from day one and with long hair this quickly became a nightmare!
I wouldn't suggest leaving them but I would try really short grooming sessions with a treat at the end (even if you manage to sit and stay to be groomed for a couple of minutes) and gradually increase the time, it can take a long time but it is worth it in the end. If they are really bad then it may be that you have to speak to the vets about sedation but I would try the softly softly approach first.
This is the advice I was given and it worked really well for us

**chloe92us** · 21st May 2008, 08:37 PM

If they are as bad as they sound, I would cut them out and not try to brush him, especially since he will be adjusting to a new home anyway and I wouldn't want to freak him out. The hair will grow back. Just my opinion!

**Ashley** · 21st May 2008, 08:55 PM

I wouldnt mind cutting them out... how he looks isnt really an issue... its more just about fleas etc that would like the matts to be their new home!

He's been through a lot this little guy so I had planned on grooming sessions being short and gentle anyway... I just wasnt sure what to do with the matts. I'll assess the situation more once he is home with us!

Thanks guys x

**Claire L** · 21st May 2008, 08:56 PM

You can cut them lengthways with a small rounded scissors and then try to tease them out using a small slicker brush OR you can simply just cut them out. I'm sure the dog will be delighted to be rid of them.

**Claire L** · 21st May 2008, 09:04 PM

This is the kind of scissors that I mean: http://www.pet-bliss.com/acatalog/Do..._Scissors.html

and these are the slicker brushes: http://www.groomerschoice.com/tools_..._slickers.html

Best of luck with your new little rescue. I look forward to pics.

**pippa** · 21st May 2008, 09:41 PM

I got Gus aged 4 months from the breeder but he had been living in kennels so although he was clean and tidy he had some matts behind his ears..He was my first cav and I took him to the vet to get the lumps investigated! (silly me) the vet shaved them off.

Pippin has quite silky flyaway hair and although he is brushed daily he still sometimes gets little matts behind his ears and in his arm pits.I usually cut them out to save him the stress of brushing and combing them especially if they are near the skin.