What about mats?

Matting is a very serious problem for pets. Mats left in a pet’s coat only grow tighter, and can damage the pets skin, or even tear it open. Matting is very uncomfortable and even painful. Mats are often deceptive, hiding in areas that don’t get much visual attention from owners such as the belly, under the tail, in the armpit area, and behind the ears. If you are not on a regular combing regimen with your pet, you may be unaware of the secret mats. These mats can trap moisture, urine, and fecal matter tightly against your pet’s skin, allowing mold, fungus, or bacteria to grow, causing skin irritations that can be very uncomfortable for your pet.