Mat removal is leaving rabbit bald!

[jlocke]

I recently adopted an American Fuzzy Lop from a gal who rescued him from someone who didn't care for his fur. He was badly matted and she clipped some out while she had him. I've been working on getting the rest out. He's too skittish for clippers and I'm trying not to use scissors because the mats are too close to his skin. As I'm separating and combing the mats out, all his fur is coming out leaving him bald there!!! The skin is flaky and has red irritated spots. Am I totally doing this wrong? I'm horrified thinking I'm plucking him bald! Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

[JBun]

The fur will grow back in. Just do the best you can. If you need to use scissors in some spots, I would stick a comb between the skin and the scissors. The comb will help prevent accidentally cutting the skin.