If tumbleweeds of fur are rolling across your floors, you are not imagining it. Many dogs and cats shed more heavily in spring as they lose the thicker coat that kept them warm in winter. Owners of double-coated breeds sometimes call this the coat blow. A little planning and regular grooming can make the season far more manageable.
Why pets shed more in spring
Shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle. Many animals respond to changes in day length and temperature by growing a denser coat for winter and releasing it as days get longer. Pets that live mostly indoors, under artificial light and steady temperatures, may shed more evenly through the year, but many still have a noticeable spring shed.
Double-coated dogs, such as many northern and herding breeds, have a soft, dense undercoat beneath longer guard hairs. When that undercoat releases, the amount of fur can be astonishing. Single-coated breeds tend to shed less dramatically. Cats vary as well, and long-haired cats may need extra help to prevent mats.
Grooming tools that help
- Undercoat rakes reach through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat on double-coated dogs.
- Slicker brushes work on many coat types to remove loose hair and small tangles.
- Rubber curry brushes or grooming gloves are useful on short coats and often popular with cats.
- Wide-toothed combs help check for mats close to the skin.
Use tools gently. Aggressive de-shedding tools can irritate skin if overused. A groomer or your veterinarian can show you what suits your pet’s coat and how often to use it.
A seasonal routine
- Brush several times a week during heavy shedding, or daily for heavy shedders.
- Work in short sessions with treats to keep it positive.
- Brush outdoors when the weather allows to keep fur out of the house.
- Bathe dogs as needed with a gentle pet shampoo, which can loosen dead hair. Make sure the coat is thoroughly dry and brushed out afterward.
- Consider a professional groomer for a de-shedding session if your dog’s coat is especially thick.
For cats, regular brushing also reduces the amount of hair swallowed during grooming, which may help with hairballs. Frequent hairballs, retching without producing a hairball, or vomiting deserve a conversation with your vet.
Do not shave double coats without advice
Shaving a double-coated dog may seem like a quick fix for shedding and warm weather, but many groomers and veterinarians advise against it without a specific reason. The coat helps with temperature regulation and sun protection, and it may grow back unevenly. Talk to a professional before shaving.
When shedding is not normal
Seasonal shedding should leave a healthy coat underneath. Contact your veterinarian if you notice bald patches, thinning in one area, red or flaky skin, sores, intense itching, a dull or brittle coat or shedding that seems excessive outside of seasonal changes. These can be signs of allergies, parasites, hormonal conditions, nutritional issues or other health problems. This article is general information only.
