Shedding Season Survival Guide: Top Tools and Tips for Managing Fur

If you haven’t experienced a shedding season yet, you might be in for a surprise. In the spring months, pets start to lose their thicker, insulating winter coats to await warmer temperatures. While it can feel like pet hair is everywhere this time of year, shedding is a normal process that can be supported with a little preparation and understanding. 

How to Cope

Managing excessive fur around the house can be irritating. The good news is that the majority of the shedding process is completed in a short period of time. While there is consistent shedding in some pet breeds year round, the lionshare of shedding occurs during spring (for the summer coat) and fall (in preparation for the winter coat). 

Longer-haired breeds tend to have heavy shed cycles related to the seasons, while shorter-haired breeds may shed throughout the year. It’s a good idea to read up on what you can expect from your specific pet’s breed at certain times of the year. 

Possible Health Concerns

While shedding is typically viewed as a normal and natural process, it can be connected to possible health conditions. Bald patches, a dull coat, dandruff, excessive scratching or itchy skin, redness, and inflammation should be addressed by your pet’s veterinarian without delay. Allergies, infection, or skin conditions may be the cause and can be supported with medication and other treatments. 

Other Measures of Support

Nutrition plays a key role in skin and coat health. We can help you zero-in on possible dietary needs and make recommendations, such as a diet in omega-3 fatty acids, that support healthy skin and fur. The following may also help pet owners deal with seasonal pet shedding:

• Increase a pet’s water supply to hydrate the skin and minimize the amount of fur left behind
• Groom them every other day during their spring cycle to catch loose fur before it falls, and reduce the mess around the home
• Schedule an appointment with a professional groomer to manage a thick undercoat and start the spring with a nice breed-specific cut

Other Pet Shedding Tips

Many pet owners stock up on lint brushes and rollers at the start of every spring. We also recommend:

• Vacuuming every day to limit the piles of fur and reduce dander in the air. 
• Use damp sponges and rubber gloves to effectively lift pet hair from carpet and upholstery. 
• Lay down furniture slipcovers to catch discarded hair. Wash these regularly to maintain a tidy, clean environment for your pet.

If you need help finding the right grooming tools for dogs and cats, or have questions about the appearance of your pet’s coat, please give us a call at Coal Creek Animal Hospital. We are always happy to assist you!