Olive oil can be effective in helping to loosen and remove mats from a cat's fur, but it should be used with caution to avoid causing harm to the cat. Gently apply a small amount of olive oil to the mat, taking care to avoid getting it in the cat's eyes or mouth. Use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to gently work the olive oil into the mat, starting at the outer edges and working inward. Once the mat has been loosened, carefully comb it out with a slicker brush or mat splitter, taking care to avoid pulling or tugging on the hair. After the mat has been removed, thoroughly wash the cat with a mild pet shampoo to remove any remaining oil. Using too much olive oil or leaving it on the cat's fur for too long can lead to skin irritation or even digestive issues if the cat ingests it during grooming. Therefore, it's best to use olive oil sparingly and always monitor your cat's behavior and well-being after applying it.