Although some more than others, shedding is a regular occurrence in cats, dogs, and other mammals. In the spring, shedding can be more prevalent as our pets prepare their hair and skin coat for warmer weather. While we can’t live without our pets and their limitless love, we’d all like to limit the excess hair in our homes.
Lizzie – our stylist at The Spaw at All Pets – believes that preventive care is the best defense against painful matting or other conditions that could occur without regular grooming. Appointments with your pet groomer should be an essential part of your pet’s routine. Dogs who have shorter hair can benefit from a professional bath, brush, and blow dry. This will help to maintain a healthy coat and skin. In addition, pets who have longer hair need regular cuts to sustain soft, clean, and mat free fur. Regular haircuts can also help detect issues with your pet’s ears, teeth, or skin before they become more problematic.
Depending on the coat type, pets may need to be brushed on a weekly to daily basis. Using a brush specific for your pet’s hair type and needs is important. A slicker brush consists of tiny angled wires grouped closely together. These brushes can be used on both cats and dogs for removing loose hairs and detangling. Greyhound combs – metal combs with tines closer together on one end and farther apart on the other – are also essential in detangling the coat. Lizzie recommends brushing with the larger tines first, then going back over with the smaller tines. Dogs and cats are thoroughly brushed when this comb can go completely through the coat, all the way down to the skin.
If a pet with a heavier coat isn’t cared for properly, matting can occur. Matted hair can mask flea and tick infestations, hot spots, skin and ear infections, or other potentially life threatening conditions if left untreated. Even mild matting can cause discomfort or pain – all of which can be prevented. Both grooming at home and on a regular basis with a pet stylist is instrumental in the wellbeing of our pets.
We all know that all pets shed. As double coated dogs – such as shepherds, sheepdogs, and retrievers – “blow their coat,” it can be very frustrating for pet owners (and their vacuums) having to deal with hair on a daily basis. Even denser coated cats like Maine Coons and Ragdolls can have heavier shedding in the spring and fall. Although shedding is normal and healthy, consistent professional grooming and home care can decrease the work of keeping the house hair free and ensuring happy, smooth haircoats on their furry family members.
