6 Ways to Reduce Your Cat’s Shedding
Having trouble keeping your house free of cat hair? The process of shedding is a natural and healthy way for your cat to get rid of old skin cells and hair follicles to grow new ones. Although cats are adept at grooming themselves, they still require human assistance in cleaning up loose fur. However, in the process of grooming themselves, cats tend to ingest loose hairs, which can lead to hairballs that might cause dangerous intestinal blockages. Excessive dead hair can also forms clumps and mats, making your cat’s fur difficult to manage.
It is possible to decrease shedding significantly by taking a variety of measures, which will allow you to maintain control of the situation. The following are some effective methods to stop excessive shedding with a few easy steps:
1. Brush Or Groom Regularly
Help your cat out by brushing them every day to lessen shedding. Cats are natural self-groomers, but regular brushing or grooming can benefit them. Make sure to choose a comb or brush that is appropriate for the length and density of your cat’s fur so that you don’t end up pulling their fur or making the experience painful for them. The act of brushing your cat can help eliminate excess fur and strengthens the bond you share with them.
2. Change Your Cat’s Diet
A poor diet can be a contributing factor to excessive shedding. Cats who are not getting the right kind of nutrition may develop brittle, dry coats and lose more hair than normal. A cat’s coat will deteriorate if they do not get enough protein in their diets or if the protein they do consume is of low quality.
Dietary fat, especially omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, is crucial in helping reduce shedding. Fatty acids aid in the development of a healthy coat and skin when combined properly. Look for pet food nutrition labels that indicate the presence of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as well as cold water fish oils (such as salmon oil) in the ingredients list. You can also consult your local vet for advice on a suitable diet plan for your cat to ensure their coat stays healthy.
3. Ensure Your Cat Stays Hydrated
Dehydration not only affects the functioning of the kidneys and other vital organs, but it can also cause a lot of shedding. Make sure your cat gets enough moisture and water to keep their coat and overall health in good shape. Use a water fountain dispenser instead of the standard water dish and add some wet food to their dry kibble. Cats love running water, so use more than one water bowl around your home.
4. Create A Fur-Friendly Zone
You can reduce the spread of hair around the house by giving your cat a place to hang out or something that you don’t mind them laying on, although it isn’t going to reduce the amount of hair they shed, it will still minimize the spread of hair around your house. You can simply add a blanket to your cat’s preferred sleeping location. The shedded hair on the blanket can be regularly cleaned with a wash or lint roller, and it’s easy to toss in the laundry.
5. Giving Your Cat A Bath
By running water through your cat’s coat, you can remove dead, loose, or dying hair and extra dander. It is important, however, to choose a shampoo made specifically for cats that helps moisturize and nourish your cat’s skin.
6. Minimise Stress
Shedding can increase when a cat experiences huge changes, such as moving into a new house, the addition of a new human or furry family member. You may not be able to make adjustments to major changes like moving into a new house, but you can support your cat throughout these changes, for instance, grooming can both soothe your cat and remove dead hair at the same time. Providing a comfortable space as a safe and comfortable retreat when your cat is feeling overwhelmed can also help manage the shedding.
When To Contact A Vet
A vet should be consulted if your cat’s shedding has become noticeably worse. Excessive shedding is sometimes caused by health problems, especially in older cats.
Look out for the following signs that could be present in your cat if he is shedding more than usual:
- Increased water consumption
- Decreased appetite
- Lack of energy
- Poor self-care
- Fur is missing in patches
- Frequent scratching
- Flat and messy coat
- Not using the litter box when urinating
The best way to reduce shedding is to make sure that your cat is getting the right amount of hydration and eating a healthy diet. Aside from that, you should vacuum and dust regularly, wash beddings and your pet’s bed weekly, as well as get lint rollers for your clothing to get rid of fur that accumulates on them.
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