I have always had long haired cats. I start giving them baths and brushing them when they are babies. They get used to it. They don't like it, but they will tolerate it. My little Persian used to sit in the bathroom sink for her blow dry and brushing. She does not like getting mats pulled out so that part is not fun. My big guy does not mind being brushed, although his coat is so thick that it takes forever. Sometimes I just pull the mats out with my fingers, and he is so good. Always amazes me. He just sits on my lap and purrs.