For dogs and cats, proper hair hygiene is essential. And it starts with grooming.

"Grooming is as important as bringing your pet to the vet for regular checkups," Lauren Lakritz, who is an Animal Care Technician in the ASPCA's Animal Recovery Center (ARC) and a certified professional groomer, said.

"It's maintaining the well-being of your animal."

Good groomers don't just cut for beauty; they are on the constant lookout for signs of trouble beneath the furry surface.

"A groomer may discover health issues before you know they exist, including cysts, bad skin conditions, and ear infections—all of which can hide under fur," Lauren added.

For instance, matted hair can progress quickly from causing mild skin irritation to infecting wounds.

Fleas and ticks can live relatively invisibly in a hair mat, and mats around the hind end can cause an accumulation of feces that sometimes obstruct defecation.

Severe hair mats can grow so tightly that they can even restrict or cut off blood circulation, which can eventually require amputation.

"Simply put, animals, especially those with long hair, suffer when they aren't maintained or regularly groomed," Lauren said.

Cats, especially breeds with medium and long length hair, are also prone to health issues caused by matting. Sometimes Lauren has to completely shave them to eradicate their dangerously-matted coats.

“Managing animals who are scared or otherwise not cooperating is a huge challenge," Lauren explained. She has clipped breeds ranging from Yorkshire terriers and miniature Poodles to large-breed dogs and cats.

Breeds like Schnauzers, Airedales and Scottish terriers, whose coats have patterns or skirts, may require professional grooming.

But generally, there are ways to prevent trips to groomers or veterinarians to treat matted hair.

Brushing your pet on a regular basis at home can help prevent injury and save money too because groomers often charge extra for mats. Doing so may also allows your pet to get used to being handled and brushed, which will hopefully make it less stressful if they ever need to visit a groomer.

Other important hygienic responsibilities include cleaning your pet’s ears regularly, and starting oral hygiene at an early age so they can get used to the routine.

However, owners should ask a vet or groomer to show them how to do it properly at first.

Grooming your pets isn't just for the eyes. It's a responsibility all owners should take seriously to keep their pets clean, healthy, and happy.

But if you're up for more similar pictures, check out our earlier publications on regrettable dog haircuts here and here.