Cats are known for being independent animals, and in every home where one is present, it is common to find hair on furniture or clothes. Although they are adorable and fill the house with affection, they shed a lot of hair, which can be annoying for their owners. This article will help you understand why your cat sheds so much hair and what you can do to minimize this situation.
Identify why you shed so much hair
Before addressing solutions, it is essential to identify the causes behind your cat's excessive hair loss. Hair loss can occur for a number of reasons, and differentiating between a normal situation and one that requires veterinary attention is key.
- Seasonal molt: It's common for cats to experience shedding, especially in the spring and summer. During this time, your cat sheds its winter coat to adapt to warmer climates. This process is completely natural, and while it may be a little uncomfortable for you, it's necessary for your cat's coat to stay healthy.
- External parasites: Fleas, ticks and other parasites can cause your cat to scratch excessively, leading to hair loss. It's easy to tell if this is the cause if, in addition to hair loss, you see your cat scratching frequently. To prevent this, use antiparasitic pipettes or collars specific for cats.
- Feeding problems: The eating plays a crucial role in the health of your cat's coat. A low-quality food will not provide your cat with the nutrients it needs to maintain a shiny and healthy coat, which can increase hair loss.
How to avoid shedding so much hair
Once you've identified the cause of your cat's hair loss, there are several strategies you can put in place to reduce the amount of hair your cat leaves around your home.
- Regular brushing: Brushing is one of the best ways to control hair loss in cats. If your cat's hair is short, brushing once a day should be sufficient. For long-haired cats, brushing two to three times a day is recommended. Not only will this reduce the amount of hair that ends up on your furniture, but it will also help prevent hairballs from forming in your cat's stomach.
- Occasional baths: Although cats are known for their grooming abilities, an occasional bath with warm water can also be beneficial. Not only will the water help remove loose hair, but it will also cool your cat down. Make sure to use cat-specific products, and if your cat doesn't like water, you can use a damp washcloth to wipe over their body.
- Balance diet: As we mentioned before, nutrition is key. By choosing a food rich in omega 3 and 6 and with quality proteins, you will ensure that your cat has all the necessary nutrients for a healthy coat that is less prone to shedding.
Preventing excessive hair loss: Additional factors to consider
In addition to the more direct ways to reduce hair loss, there are other factors that can influence your level of hair loss.
Stress: Stress is a common cause of hair loss in cats. Cats are sensitive animals, and changes in their environment (such as moving house or the arrival of a new pet) can lead to anxiety and, therefore, more hair loss. Providing a calm environment, with toys, scratching posts and safe spaces for your cat, can help reduce this type of hair loss. If you notice that your cat is overly anxious, feline pheromones may be a good option to keep them calm.
Periodic deworming: Although it may seem obvious, it is important not to forget that maintaining a deworming schedule is essential. Not only does it help prevent internal diseases, but it also prevents external parasites from affecting your cat's coat.
How to remove cat hair at home?
Despite all your care, it's inevitable that some cat hair will end up in your home. Here are some tips to help you clean up cat hair more easily.
- Adhesive rollers: You can use sticky rollers to clean cat hair from clothes or sofas. They are very easy to use and can remove large amounts of hair in a short time.
- Vacuums: A good vacuum cleaner is essential when you have a cat that sheds a lot. If you don't like how often you have to get out the vacuum cleaner, a robot vacuum cleaner, especially those designed to pick up pet hair, can do the job for you.
- Rubber mittens: These gloves are useful for cleaning hair from surfaces, such as sofas or beds, thanks to the static electricity they generate, attracting hair towards them.
- Lay down blankets: Place blankets or covers in the areas where your cat usually hangs out. You will then only need to shake or wash them periodically to remove the hair.
Remember that, although it can be a little annoying, hair loss in cats is completely natural. With proper care, you can minimize the amount of hair in your home without compromising their health and well-being.