Shedding is a normal part of life for felines, as any cat owner knows well. With spring's arrival, you may find that your furry friend requires even more pet grooming than usual to manage shedding. Find out why this is the case, what else can cause hair loss—and when it could indicate a more serious problem.

Why Does Your Cat Shed?

Felines shed in cycles and tend to have one to two large shedding and growth phases every year. Biologically, your kitty needs less hair to keep warm when temperatures are higher and the sun is shining. This may explain why some cats, especially those that spend time outside, shed more in spring.

Shedding can also occur for health-related reasons. Anxiety and stress, which they may experience after moving to a new home, are potential causes. Illnesses may also be to blame, including ringworm, fleas, allergies, and skin irritation or inflammation. If your pet is losing more fur than usual, see a veterinarian. 

How Can You Handle Cat Hair?

In general, proper pet grooming will help contain pet hair. Brush your cat one to two times per week. Seize an opportunity when kitty is already feeling cuddly and curled up on your lap. You can alternate between hand and brush strokes to make the experience more pleasant.

As you brush, look for signs of illness. Check for matted or rough patches of fur, which could indicate a skin condition. Look for fleas or signs of scratching. Also, gently part the animal’s fur to see the skin beneath. It should be white. If it looks red, bumpy, or inflamed, it may be infected or otherwise unhealthy. 

Whether you need pet grooming to manage your cat’s fur in the spring or found suspicious spots while brushing, Elyria Animal Hospital can help. Their team provides top-quality veterinary care, pet grooming, and boarding services in Lorain County, OH. This caring team of animal lovers offers comprehensive services backed by over 20 years of experience. They are dedicated to being your one-stop shop for your furry friend’s needs, and they even have a state-of-the-art in-house laboratory. Visit their website to review their services, and to schedule an appointment, call (440) 365-3818.