Periodic shedding in cats, or hair loss, is a completely natural phenomenon associated with physiological processes, including the renewal of their coat. However, sometimes a cat sheds excessively and not just periodically, but all the time. How can you assess whether a cat’s hair loss is still within a normal range or should raise concern? How can you reduce excessive shedding in cats?
Shedding in Cats – When Do Cats Shed the Most?
Cat shedding is related to the changing seasons. Especially during transitions, one can observe an increase in this phenomenon, particularly with the arrival of spring and autumn.
This is a time when most hairs are in the growth phase, and the coat is being renewed. Dead hairs fall out intensively, and new ones grow in their place. In spring, the coat becomes lighter and thinner, while in winter it is thicker and denser.
As long as a cat’s hair loss is gradual and not too intense, there is no cause for concern. Cats remove part of the dead hair themselves while grooming their fur, and you can also help by gently brushing them with a specialized pet brush.
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For indoor cats that stay in a roughly constant air temperature, the shedding process can extend throughout the year. Additionally, depending on the type of fur, shedding may occur more or less intensely.
However, the appearance of bald spots, irritations, signs of biting and scratching at the hair, as well as a significant deterioration in its quality – dullness, brittleness – should raise concern.
Why Does a Cat Shed – Learn the Causes
Excessive hair loss in cats should always be consulted with a veterinarian to determine the cause. The most common causes include:
- parasites,
- bacterial or fungal skin infections,
- improper grooming of the coat,
- improper diet,
- food or atopic allergies,
Shedding in conjunction with other symptoms may indicate a more serious illness, such as hormonal disorders, diabetes, or thyroid problems. Symptoms that should raise our concern alongside excessive hair loss include:
- simultaneous weight loss, decreased appetite, and apathy,
- sudden shedding in older cats,
- the appearance of areas on the body completely devoid of fur,
- intensive licking or scratching,
- uneven shedding, intensified in a specific part of the body, such as the belly,
- general deterioration in the appearance and condition of the cat’s coat.
Ways to Reduce Shedding
If the veterinarian rules out medical causes after performing necessary laboratory tests, it is beneficial to take a holistic approach to care for the cat, thus strengthening its body and, in turn, improving the condition of its skin and coat.
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The appearance and condition of the coat are primarily influenced by unsaturated fatty acids Omega-3 and Omega-6, vitamins A, D, E from the B group, zinc, and copper. Omega-3 and Omega-6 have a moisturizing effect on the skin, while vitamins A and E protect against excessive dryness and flaking. If your pet is healthy, often the culprit is an improper diet lacking these essential components.
Therefore, it is advisable to start supplementing your pet’s diet, for example, by providing supplements. Depending on the needs, they can be administered periodically or long-term. An example of a vitamin supplement for healthy skin and shiny fur for cats is VetoSkin from Vet Expert.
A product that supports the proper function of the skin and nourishes the hair. The Twist Off capsule guarantees ease of administration, photo: vetexpert.eu
It has a natural composition and a proven formula that positively affects the condition of animals’ coats, especially during shedding. Its ingredients include polyunsaturated fatty acids, B vitamins, zinc, and biotin. They are available in convenient Twist-Off capsules, making administration to the cat trouble-free.
In addition to caring for the coat’s condition from the inside, it’s also worth ensuring proper external grooming. For this purpose, grooming tools for cats will be useful.
A wide-toothed comb will be effective for untangling knots, a brush made of natural bristles will be ideal for grooming, and a rubber glove will help with massaging and removing dead hair. A furminator can also prove useful for thoroughly removing undercoat.
A moisturizing spray that facilitates combing for long-haired dogs and cats, photo: vetexpert.eu
In some cases, it’s worth considering cat coat care cosmetics. These can be conditioners in spray form that nourish, moisturize, and regenerate the weakened structure of the hair. For example, Vet Expert Moisturizing Spray is a moisturizing product that simplifies combing for long-haired cats.
It is rich in moisturizing, soothing, and strengthening substances. Thanks to the presence of nanosilver, it has disinfecting and regenerating properties. It is useful not only for maintaining the coat but also for alleviating skin changes caused by atopic dermatitis, abrasions, and micro-injuries.
If you notice your feline friend shedding intensely and it raises your concern, consult your veterinarian as soon as possible. Also, pay attention to proper nutrition and grooming – then your furry companion will surely reward you with touchable, soft, and healthy fur.