Cats are famous for their impeccable grooming habits, spending countless hours each day meticulously licking their fur to keep it clean and healthy. Shedding is a natural part of this process, as old or damaged hair is replaced by new growth. However, when our furry friends start shedding excessively, it can be a cause for concern.
The Sploot Veterinary Care team understands your worries and has put together this comprehensive guide on cat shedding. In this article, we will delve into why cats shed so much and provide tips on how to manage excessive shedding.
Cat Shedding Overview
Cat shedding refers to the natural process in which cats lose their old or damaged fur and replace it with new growth. While some cats shed more than others, shedding is a necessary process that helps cats maintain healthy skin and coat.
Do All Cats Shed?
Yes, all cats shed to some extent. Shedding is a natural and necessary process that helps cats maintain healthy skin and coat. However, the amount of shedding can vary greatly depending on breed, age, health, and environmental conditions.
Which Cats Shed More?
Certain cat breeds tend to shed more than others. Here are some cat breeds that are known to be moderate to heavy shedders:
- Himalayan: Long-haired cat prone to heavy shedding and matting.
- Persian: Long-haired cat prone to heavy shedding and matting.
- Ragdoll: Long-haired cat prone to moderate shedding and matting.
- Ragamuffin: Medium-length coat prone to moderate shedding.
- Siberian: Long-haired cat prone to moderate shedding.
- American Bobtail: Can be short-haired or long-haired, prone to matting if fur is long and moderate shedding.
- Maine Coon: Can have long or medium-length fur, prone to moderate shedding.
While these breeds are known to shed more, they can shed even more due to seasonal changes, certain health conditions, skin diseases, allergies, and stress.
What Cats Don’t Shed?
Although all cats shed to some extent, some cats shed less than others. These are considered minimal shedders or low shedders. However, it’s important to note that no cat is 100% hypoallergenic, as fur is not the only source of cat allergies. Some examples of cats that don’t shed as much include:
- Sphynx: Looks hairless but still has fine fur, minimal shedding.
- Cornish Rex: Very short, curly coat, minimal shedding.
- Devon Rex: Very short coat, minimal shedding.
- Singapura: Short, fine coat, minimal shedding.
- Tonkinese: Short, fine coat, low shedding.
- Burmese: Short, sleek coat, low shedding.
- Bengal: Short, luxurious coat, low shedding.
- Russian Blue: Short, dense coat, low shedding.
Why is My Cat Shedding So Much?
Apart from breed predispositions, several factors can contribute to excessive shedding in cats. Let’s explore some of these factors:
1. Seasonal Shedding
One of the reasons why cats shed a lot is seasonal shedding. During certain seasons, particularly spring and autumn, cats may experience increased shedding. For double-coated breeds like Maine Coons and Persian cats, this shedding is more noticeable. In spring, cats shed their heavier winter coat in preparation for warmer weather, while in autumn, they shed their summer coat to make way for a winter coat.
2. Allergies in Cats – Seasonal, Food, & Fleas
Allergies can also lead to increased shedding in cats. Cats may exhibit symptoms such as itchiness, dandruff, excessive scratching, ear infections, coughing, and wheezing. Common sources of allergies in cats include seasonal air-borne particles like pollen, dust mites, and mold spores, certain foods, and flea saliva.
3. Age
As cats age, their grooming habits may change. Senior cats, around 10 years of age or older, may not be able to groom themselves as effectively due to possible mobility issues. As a result, they may appear to shed more.
4. Stress & Anxiety
Cats are sensitive creatures, and stress or anxiety can manifest in various ways, including excessive shedding. Changes in the cat’s environment, such as moving to a new home or the introduction of a new pet, can cause stress and lead to increased shedding.
5. Skin Issues
Fleas and ticks can cause increased shedding by triggering flea allergies and causing itchiness, leading to overgrooming and hair loss. Another common skin condition that can result in increased shedding is ringworm in cats, which causes hair loss and circular patterns of baldness or broken hairs.
6. Dietary Factors
A poor diet lacking essential nutrients can affect the health of a cat’s coat and skin, leading to increased shedding. Cats require a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to maintain a healthy coat.
7. Health Issues
Certain health issues like hyperthyroidism and diabetes can affect a cat’s skin and coat, resulting in excessive shedding. If your cat’s shedding is accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, hyperactivity, and weight loss, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian.
How to Stop a Cat From Shedding
While it’s impossible to eliminate shedding in cats entirely, there are steps you can take to help reduce excessive shedding and keep your cat’s coat healthy:
1. Regular Grooming
Regular brushing helps remove loose fur, especially during shedding season. Choose a brush appropriate for your cat’s coat type and make grooming sessions a positive experience by offering treats and praise. Cats may also need baths if their fur becomes soiled.
2. Balanced Diet
Ensure your cat is eating a high-quality diet that meets their nutritional needs. Feed them AAFCO-certified cat food as their main source of nutrition. Cat-friendly human food can also be given as treats or pet food toppers.
3. Stress Management
Minimize stressors in your cat’s environment and provide plenty of opportunities for mental and physical stimulation. Bonding activities such as cat games, interactive toys, and puzzle feeders can help alleviate stress. Creating an enriching environment for your cat is also beneficial.
4. Regular Vet Check-ups
Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your cat’s overall health and address any underlying medical issues contributing to excessive shedding. Veterinarians can help rule out allergies and provide recommendations for suitable cat food and supplements to support your cat’s coat and skin health.
Final Thoughts on Cats Shedding a Lot
Cat shedding is a natural and normal process, but excessive shedding can sometimes indicate underlying health issues. By understanding the reasons behind cat shedding and taking proactive steps to manage it, you can help keep your cat healthy, inside and out.
For complete veterinary care for your cats, Sploot Veterinary Care is here to assist you. Whether you have questions about excessive shedding or need to rule out possible dietary deficiencies, allergies, or health conditions, our team is always ready to help. We provide primary and urgent veterinary care for cats and dogs in serene clinic environments, using fear-free methods to make your feline fur babies feel as welcome as possible.
Book an appointment online or through the Sploot Vets app, your mobile pet care companion. We accept same-day appointments as well as urgent-intake appointments. Remember, we’re with you every pounce of the way!