7 Ways to Stop Cat Shedding

Cat shedding can be a huge problem for a pet owner. Cleaning and allergies can become bothersome with a cat who sheds hair frequently. Below are practical ways to reduce the amount of hair your cat sheds and suggestions that make living with a shedding cat more enjoyable for you and your family.

1. Choosing the Right Brush

Cats shed hair in cycles. A cat who sheds a lot of hair should be brushed daily. You'll notice that sometimes a lot of hair will come off, and others not as much. Choosing the right brush for your cat is essential in removing hair. If your cat has long hair that is often tangled or matted, purchase a mat removing tool. These are specially designed to remove tangles and mats without causing discomfort to your cat. Slicker brushes can be used to remove the undercoat or to brush a cat without mats or tangles. A spray on conditioner can be applied and left on to keep the coat soft and shiny.

2. Change Your Cat's Diet

A healthy coat starts from good nutrition. Look for premium foods that contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These ingredients promote a healthy coat and reduce shedding. Supplements that contain these ingredients and other vitamins can also be added to your cat's diet and can be found at your local pet store.

3. Cover up the Furniture

The easiest way to protect your furniture from cat hair is to purchase a protective slip cover and place it on the furniture all the time or just during your cat's excessive shedding periods. Covers no longer have to be plastic and tacky. There are many cloth options available that are stylish and machine washable.

4. Bathe Frequently

Baths don't just reduce odor. A good bath removes excess and undercoat hair as well as any extra oils on your cat's coat and skin. If your cat isn't fond of baths, you can supplement using wash wipes or spray on shampoos in between baths.

5. Cat Furniture

Providing your cat with a place of his own will keep him off of your furniture. Cats who have their own bed, tree, or hideout are more likely to spend quality time there. The less time your cat spends on your furniture equals less hair being shed on it.

6. Manage Allergies and Fleas

If your cat suffers from allergies or fleas, the frequent scratching results in excess shedding. Use preventative monthly flea treatments such as Frontline or Advantage to keep fleas away. If your cat already has fleas, use a flea shampoo that kills fleas and their eggs in addition to a preventative treatment. Rid your home of fleas using a borate powder to keep them from re-infesting your cat. If you suspect your cat has allergies, see your veterinarian for the proper allergy relief treatment. 

7. Veterinary Check-Ups

Many illnesses and diseases can effect the coat and skin resulting in excess shedding. Take your cat in for regular check-ups with your veterinarian to prevent illnesses that cause shedding.