Brushing and/or dematting should include

• comparing brushes, mat combs, and mat rakes
• selecting equipment and products based on coat type (e.g., detangler)
• describing
• differences in animal skin types, such as sensitive, oily, dry, or allergy‑prone skin
• precautions when dematting, including avoiding excessive pulling, preventing skin tears, and monitoring stress
• the purpose of grooming and dematting for skin health, comfort, mat prevention, and early detection of skin issues
• the importance of dematting prior to bathing to prevent mats from tightening and trapping moisture
• following guidelines for humane, low‑stress grooming practices and tool sanitation.

Process/Skill Questions:

• Why is it important to brush and demat a pet animal?
• What equipment is needed to brush and demat an animal's coat?
• Why should a pet's coat be brushed and dematted prior to bathing?
• Why should scissors be avoided when cutting out a mat? What should be used instead? Why?
• What is meant by line brushing? What types of dogs and cats benefit from line brushing?