10 things you should know about your cat’s shedding

Domestic cats have been evolving for millions of years and because their wild ancestors faced extreme weathers. The cats we know in the modern day still retain the ability to shed and regrow their fur for the changing weather conditions.

The difference between a cat’s summer and winter coats can depend on its breed, the climate in which it lives and the length of fur.

Here are 10 things you should know when your cat starts shedding his fur:

• Shedding fur is how cats keep their fur in good condition! If dead hair stays on your cat’s body it can cause irritation.
• The fine, down-like fur beneath the glossy outer coat acts as insulation.
• Even short-haired cats lose their coat in Spring.
• Long-haired breeds such as the Norwegian Forest Cat shed so much fur in Summer they almost look like a different cat!
• The only cats that don’t shed fur are pure-bred hairless cats such as Sphynx.
• Sick cats don’t shed as much fur as healthy cats.
• Shedding is influenced by daylight, and as the daylight hours reduce, it triggers the shedding process.
• Shedding can be controlled with frequent brushing and combing which helps remove loose hair and keep your cat’s coat healthy.
• Short-haired breeds such as Siamese need very little brushing, whereas long-haired such as Persian need brushing more frequently
• (more on your pet’s coat health here).
• If your cat has a heavy shed throughout the year, it may point to a food sensitivity or a dust allergy.

Feeding your cat a healthy diet with quality cat food can help keep their fur in good condition and lead to a healthy shed. If you’re concerned with your cats shedding or if they’re having problems with hairballs, your vet can provide advice so it’s worth giving them a call.