Seasonal Shedding: How to Manage Your Pet’s Coat Naturally

Seasonal shedding in pets can feel like an endless cycle of fur all over your home, but it’s a natural part of your pet’s life. You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered why your dog or cat seems to lose so much fur at certain times of the year. This common phenomenon happens because animals have natural cycles that help them adapt to changing seasons.

So, if you’re finding fur everywhere, take it as a sign that your pet is simply adjusting to the seasons, and maybe it’s time for a good brushing session! Let’s learn more about shedding!

Why Pets Shed

Seasonal shedding is a natural process for all pet owners, especially those with dogs and cats. It happens because our pets, like many animals, need to adapt their coats to the changing seasons to stay comfortable and healthy.

In the fall, pets shed their lighter summer coats and grow thicker, warmer ones to protect them from the cold winter weather. This is why you might notice more fur around your house as the weather gets cooler. Then, when spring arrives and temperatures rise, they shed that thick winter coat to keep cool in the summer heat. This is when you might feel like you’re brushing out enough fur to create a new pet.

The main reason for this shedding cycle is temperature regulation. Like how we change our wardrobes with the seasons, pets change their coats. It’s their body’s way of preparing for the weather ahead. This process is particularly noticeable in breeds with double coats, which have a soft, insulating undercoat and a tougher, protective topcoat.

Skin allergy rash and irritations is a natural allergy remedy for all cats. Helps heal irritated & infected skin. It may provide relief from insect bites. Provides a calming effect. All-natural formula. Easy to use.

Another reason for shedding is the amount of daylight. Pets have a biological clock influenced by the length of the day. As the days get longer or shorter, it triggers hormonal changes in their bodies that start the shedding process. This is why you’ll notice the heaviest shedding during spring and fall, aligning with the most significant changes in daylight hours.

Shedding also helps remove dead and damaged fur, making way for new, healthy growth. This is essential for maintaining a healthy coat and skin. Regular shedding keeps their coat in top condition, removing old fur that the sun, dirt, or parasites might damage.

Stress can also cause shedding. When pets are stressed or anxious, they can shed more than usual. Changes in their environment, new pets or people in the house, or even changes in routine can stress them out. This type of shedding is often temporary and can be managed by keeping their environment as stable and stress-free as possible.

Lastly, health issues can lead to excessive shedding. Allergies, infections, and certain medical conditions can cause more hair loss than expected. If you notice your pet shedding a lot outside of the usual seasons or if their fur looks patchy, it’s a good idea to check in with your vet. They can help identify any underlying issues and recommend treatment.

In a nutshell, seasonal shedding happens because pets need to adapt their coats to the changing seasons, manage temperature, respond to changes in daylight, and maintain healthy fur. While it can be a bit of a hassle, understanding why it happens can help you manage it better and keep your pet comfortable.

What Can You During Shedding Season?

1. Brushing 

Brushing your pet regularly is one of the best ways to manage shedding. For dogs, especially those with thick or double coats, daily brushing during shedding season helps remove loose fur before it ends all over your furniture and floors. Cats, too, benefit from regular brushing. Even though they groom themselves, they can still use a hand, particularly if they have long fur.

The type of brush you use matters. A slicker brush or a de-shedding tool can work wonders for dogs, getting deep into their undercoat and pulling out all that loose hair. Cats prefer softer brushes or grooming gloves that feel like petting, making the experience more enjoyable.

Not only does brushing help keep your home cleaner, but it’s also great for your pet’s skin and coat health. It helps distribute natural oils across their fur, keeping it shiny and healthy. Plus, it can be an excellent way to check for skin issues or parasites hiding under their fur.

Brushing can also be a bonding experience. Most pets enjoy the attention, which can be a calming routine for both of you. Start slowly if your pet isn’t used to it, and be gentle, especially around sensitive areas.

If you’re consistent with brushing, you’ll notice less fur around your home and a happier, healthier pet. It’s a simple but effective way to manage seasonal shedding and keep your furry friend looking and feeling their best.

2. Bathing

Bathing helps to loosen and wash away dead hair that’s about to fall out anyway. Using a pet-friendly shampoo is key here; you want something that won’t dry out their skin but will still get them clean. Dogs, especially those with thicker coats, can benefit from regular baths during shedding seasons. For dogs, bathing once a month is usually enough, but you might need to bathe them a bit more frequently during heavy shedding periods. Just be careful not to overdo it, as too much bathing can strip away the natural oils in their coat.

Cats are a bit different. Most cats don’t need baths since they groom themselves, but if you have a long-haired cat or one that’s shedding a lot, an occasional bath can help. If your cat isn’t a fan of water, you might want to consider waterless shampoos or wipes designed for cats.

After a bath, brushing your pet thoroughly is a good idea. The water helps to loosen up a lot of the dead fur, and brushing afterward can help remove it more effectively. Plus, brushing after a bath can help prevent mats and tangles, especially in long-haired pets.

Regular bathing helps manage shedding and keeps your pet’s coat clean and their skin healthy. It can remove dirt, allergens, and parasites that can cause skin problems. And, of course, a clean pet is more pleasant to cuddle with!

One thing to remember is to make bath time a positive experience. Use treats and praise to make your pet comfortable, and be gentle, especially if they’re not used to baths. Over time, they might even start to enjoy it.

In short, combining regular baths with brushing is a great way to manage seasonal shedding. It helps keep the fur situation under control, ensures your pet stays clean, and can be an excellent bonding time for both of you. So, get that shampoo ready, and embrace the bathtime routine!

3. Diet

In the spring and fall, pets lose a lot of their fur to make way for a new coat better suited to the upcoming weather. While you can’t stop the shedding, you can make it more manageable with the right food.

A diet rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids can do wonders for your pet’s coat. These essential fats help keep their skin hydrated and their fur shiny and healthy. You can find these nutrients in high-quality pet foods, particularly those that include fish oil or flaxseed. If you’re unsure if your pet is getting enough of these fats, you can talk to your vet about adding supplements to their diet.

All digestive is a natural digestive support for cats. Helps with stomach upset, diarrhea, and gastritis. It aids in restoring digestive balance and your pet’s comfort. All-natural formula. Easy to use.

Protein is another important part of your pet’s diet that affects their coat. Hair is mainly made of protein, so a diet rich in good-quality protein helps support strong, healthy fur. Look for pet foods that list meat, fish, or poultry as the first ingredient to ensure your pet gets enough protein.

Vitamins and minerals also play a crucial role. Vitamins like A and E and minerals like zinc are essential for healthy skin and fur. Many pet foods are fortified with these nutrients, but it doesn’t hurt to double-check the labels or ask your vet for recommendations.

Hydration is just as important as a good diet. Make sure your pet has plenty of fresh water available at all times. Proper hydration helps keep their skin from becoming dry and flaky, reducing shedding and keeping their coat looking great.

If you notice excessive shedding, itching, or other skin issues, it might be worth looking into whether a specific ingredient in their food is causing problems. Your vet can help you figure this out and suggest alternative diets.

Overall, a balanced diet full of essential nutrients, proteins, and plenty of water can make a big difference in managing seasonal shedding. It keeps your pet’s coat healthy, reduces excessive shedding, and ensures they look and feel their best all year round.

4. Natural Remedies

When managing seasonal shedding naturally, some interesting natural remedies can help keep your pet’s coat healthy and reduce the amount of fur they shed.

Regarding homeopathy and pets, the goal is to address the underlying causes of issues like excessive shedding. If your dog or cat is shedding more than usual due to stress, homeopathy can help. For instance, Ignatia, a homeopathic remedy is often chosen for pets that are dealing with anxiety, sadness, or stress, which can lead to more shedding.

Sulfur could be a useful remedy for pets that shed a lot because of allergies. Sulfur is commonly used for skin problems like itching, redness, or dryness—issues that can cause more fur to fall out.

Another important thing in homeopathy is matching the remedy to your pet’s overall personality and health. Two pets might have the same symptoms but need different treatments based on their traits. For example, Pulsatilla might be recommended if your pet is usually energetic and social but starts shedding a lot after a routine change. Pulsatilla is often used for affectionate animals but may get anxious with environmental changes.

If you’re considering homeopathy for your pet’s shedding, it’s a good idea to talk to a vet who understands homeopathy. They can help you choose the right remedy based on your pet’s symptoms, personality, and overall health. They can also guide you on how to give the remedy and what to expect.

Coconut oil is another excellent remedy as an addition to your pet’s diet. It can improve the health of their skin and coat. You can start with a small amount, like a teaspoon mixed into their food, and see how they respond. Coconut oil helps with inflammation and can make their fur look healthier.

Herbal supplements can also be beneficial. For example, nettles have anti-inflammatory properties that are great for skin health. You can find nettle supplements in pet stores or online. Dandelion is another option; it supports overall health and can help detoxify your pet’s body.

Flower essences like Bach Rescue Remedy can help with stress, a common cause of shedding. A few drops in their water bowl or applied directly to their skin can help calm them down. Reducing stress in their environment by providing a calm, stable place to relax is also very helpful.

Instant Calm Lavender Stress Reducer for Pets is a roll-on, easily portable remedy that provides natural stress and anxiety support and promotes emotional resilience.

Used correctly, essential oils can also be part of your homeopathic toolkit. Lavender oil, for instance, has calming properties. Dilute a few drops in water and spray it on your pet’s bedding or lightly on their coat. Always dilute essential oils properly because they can be very strong. You may also use our instant calm lavender reducer for pets. Its formula combines homeopathic ingredients with lavender essential oil.

Aloe vera is another natural remedy to consider. Pure aloe vera gel can soothe your pet’s skin. If your pet has dry or irritated skin, applying a small amount of aloe vera can help moisturize and heal it, reducing shedding.

Using natural remedies for seasonal shedding is all about supporting your pet’s overall health. A balanced diet, natural supplements, gentle grooming, and a stress-free environment can all contribute to a healthier coat and less shedding. It might take some time to see what works best for your pet, but these natural remedies can make a big difference in managing seasonal shedding.

Things to Consider When Dogs Are Shedding

Different breeds and individual dogs can shed in various ways. Understanding these can help keep your dog comfortable and your home less hairy.

First, let’s discuss double-coated breeds like Huskies, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers. These dogs have an undercoat that they shed heavily, especially in the spring and fall. When they shed, it can seem like your entire house is covered in fur. This is normal but can be overwhelming. Regular brushing, even daily during peak shedding seasons, can help manage the amount of fur that ends up everywhere.

Skin allergy, rash and irritations is a natural allergy remedy for all dogs. It helps heal irritated & infected skin. It may provide relief from insect bites. Provides a calming effect. All-natural formula. Easy to use.

Then, there are dogs with skin sensitivities or allergies. If your dog has allergies, you might notice more shedding than usual, along with itching, redness, or hotspots. Allergies can be caused by food, pollen, dust, or flea bites. Managing these allergies with the help of your vet can reduce excessive shedding and make your dog more comfortable.

Another issue is stress-related shedding. Dogs can shed more when they’re stressed or anxious. This can be due to changes in their environment, new pets or people in the house, or even a change in their routine. Create a calm and consistent environment if your dog is shedding more during stressful times. Exercise, mental stimulation, and affection can help reduce their stress levels.

Anxiety and over-reaction from fear is a natural remedy for calmness and reduced  Natural remedy for calmness and reduced fear in dogs. It helps minimize stress and fear responses. Useful for generalized, separation, social, and environmental anxiety. All-natural formula. Non-drowsy relief. Easy to use.

Parasites like fleas and mites can cause serious shedding issues. These pests irritate your dog’s skin, leading to scratching, biting, and hair loss. Regular flea prevention and checking your dog for signs of parasites can help prevent this problem.

Lastly, hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid problems or Cushing’s disease, can cause excessive shedding. These conditions often come with other symptoms like weight changes, tiredness, or changes in appetite. If you notice these signs, a trip to the vet is in order. They can run tests and provide treatment to help manage the condition and reduce shedding.

Cat-Specific Shedding Issues

One of the main issues with cat shedding is hairballs. Cats are natural groomers, and when they shed, they often ingest loose fur. This fur can form hairballs in their stomach, which they cough up. It’s not pleasant for you or your cat. Regular brushing can significantly reduce the amount of loose fur they ingest. Long-haired breeds like Maine Coons and Persians are especially prone to hairballs, so they need extra grooming.

Another issue is matting, particularly in long-haired cats. As they shed, loose fur can get trapped in their coat, leading to tangles and mats. Mats can be painful and even cause skin infections if not dealt with. Regular brushing helps prevent mats from forming. If you find mats, gently work them out with your fingers or a mat comb. In severe cases, you might need a professional groomer’s help.

Some cats have sensitive skin that can become irritated during shedding seasons. This can lead to itching, scratching, and even bald spots. Visiting the vet is a good idea if you notice your cat scratching more than usual or see any red or bald patches. They can rule out any skin conditions or allergies and recommend treatments to soothe your cat’s skin.

Cats with allergies can also have increased shedding. Allergies can be triggered by various things like pollen, dust, or even certain foods. If your cat has allergies, you might notice more shedding and symptoms like sneezing, itching, or watery eyes. Managing allergies usually involves identifying and eliminating the allergen from your cat’s environment and possibly using medications or special diets recommended by your vet.

The Bottom Line

Seasonal shedding is a normal part of your pet’s life, and while it can feel overwhelming, there are natural ways to manage it. Regular brushing, a healthy diet rich in essential nutrients, and some homeopathic remedies can make a big difference. Taking these steps helps keep your home a bit cleaner and ensures your pet stays comfortable and healthy. Remember, shedding is your pet’s way of adapting to the changing seasons, so a little extra care keeps them happy and their coat looking its best.