Which grooming adjustment is recommended to reduce matting risk in seniors?

• A. Regular baths
• B. Avoid brushing
• C. Gentle brushing to prevent matting
• D. Skip checking ears, nails, and teeth

Answer: (C)

Preventing mats comes from regular, gentle grooming that keeps the coat untangled. Mats form when fur knots together, and once they tighten they can trap dirt and moisture and irritate the skin—something seniors are especially susceptible to due to slower movements or sensitive joints. Gentle brushing helps keep the hair separated and prevents tangles from forming, while being easy on sore spots and arthritic joints.

Regular baths aren’t the main solution to matting; washing too often can dry the skin and actually make mats worse in some coats. It’s important to keep brushing as a routine and to handle the dog calmly so brushing remains comfortable. Skipping other grooming checks like ears, nails, and teeth can miss health issues, so a consistent, overall grooming routine is beneficial.