Cats are known for their grooming habits and beautiful fur, but sometimes, it seems like your feline friend is shedding more than usual. Understanding the reasons behind excessive shedding can help you determine whether it’s a normal occurrence or a sign of an underlying issue. Today, our Burlington and Bellingham vets why are cat sheds so much, when its normal, and when its not.
Why do cats shed?
Shedding is a natural process for cats, just like most animals. Cats shed to remove dead hair and make room for new growth. This process helps to keep their coat in good condition and prevent mats and tangles.
When do cats shed the most?
Cats typically shed the most during seasonal changes. You might notice your cat shedding more than usual in the spring and fall. This is because they are transitioning between their winter and summer coats. However, if your cat is an indoor pet, artificial lighting and controlled temperatures can cause them to shed consistently throughout the year.
Why is my cat shedding a lot more than normal?
Some reasons your cat could be shedding more than usual include the following:
- Mites and fleas (especially if your cat is allergic to them) can drive your cat to gnaw and scratch, resulting in increased hair loss. Even though you cannot see these bugs moving around on your cat, their presence can be problematic.
- Allergies may be to blame if your cat sheds a lot. Cats, like humans, can suffer from changing allergies. The key to resolving the problem is understanding what your cat is allergic to. Your cat could be allergic to something else in the environment, such as dust, debris, or even cleaning agents. Your veterinarian can assist you in determining the source of the allergy and providing a treatment to make your cat more comfortable.
- Bacterial and fungal infections can impact your cat's coat and cause them to shed excessively.
- Some diseases can cause your cat to shed more than it should. These can include kidney, liver, thyroid, or adrenal gland diseases and some types of cancer.
- Some behavioral disorders (such as being stressed) do cause cats to shed more. It can cause excessive licking and chewing, leading to hair loss even if the stress isn't causing your cat to shed.
If your veterinarian believes that a medical problem causes the shedding, they will recommend a treatment plan to address it. It is critical to follow their recommendations closely. Your cat's shedding should return to normal when the underlying medical condition is resolved.
The veterinarian may recommend lab tests such as skin scrapings, hair examinations, blood work, and urinalysis as part of their process for diagnosing your cat's excessive shedding.
How to Manage Your Cat's Shedding
While you can't completely stop your cat from shedding, there are several ways to manage it and reduce the mess:
- Brush your cat regularly to remove loose fur and prevent matting. This is especially important during shedding seasons. Use a brush designed for your cat’s coat type.
- Ensure your cat eats a balanced diet with the nutrients necessary for a healthy coat. Consult your vet about supplements if needed.
- Keep your cat well-hydrated. Water helps maintain skin and coat health.
- Create a calm environment for your cat. Provide hiding spots and regular playtime, and maintain a consistent routine to reduce stress.
- Regular check-ups with your vet can help catch any underlying health issues early. Your vet can also recommend specific treatments if your cat’s shedding is due to a medical problem.
- Taking your cat to a professional groomer can help manage shedding. Groomers have the tools and expertise to remove excess fur and maintain your cat’s coat health. Regular grooming sessions can significantly reduce the amount of fur your cat sheds at home.
Why should bring my cat to the vet for excessive shedding?
As mentioned, excessive shedding in cats can be caused by various medical issues. Ringworm, thyroid disorders, fleas, and other problems might cause your cat's hair to fall out. If you observe any changes in your cat's health, it's usually a good idea to take them to the vet.
Increased shedding is usually not a big deal, and you may be able to lessen it after you figure out what's causing it. Diet and nutrition can play a role, so evaluating all variables is critical.
In the meantime, a powerful vacuum built for pet-friendly houses can be useful, as can a few lint rollers. Cleaning up cat hair regularly might help limit the amount on your clothes.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.