We learned the hard way, just how important it is to brush our long-haired cat! If we do not keep up on this routine, her fur becomes a knotted, matted mess. Being a larger cat, she has a hard time reaching all the areas, as it is, so this means it is essential, we help her out.
In our house, we all take turns. I know it sounds a little bit unusual, but it works for us. She does not actually like to be brushed, but tolerates the routine. Plus, she gets a treat afterwards. We still take her to the groomer, but without her daily brushing, we get the riot act from our vet Besides, we really love out cats and don't want them to be an uncomfortable mess.