How to manage pet hair and shedding

Is your dog or cat shedding? Is pet hair driving you crazy? Read our blog on how to manage your pets hair.

It is that time of the year again, winter is over and you should see your pet shedding more. You love your pet but having hair all over your floor and clothes is not fun.

Some dog breeds shed more than others. Different breeds shed at different times and rates throughout the year. Some blow their coat once or twice a season whilst others shed throughout the year.

Labradors and Golden Retrievers are an example of breeds that tend to shed throughout the year, more so during the winter to spring transition as they get rid of their thick winter coat.

Other breeds such as Huskies tend to blow their winter coat and need a significant amount of brushing to get rid of it. However, in the South African climate Huskies do shed throughout the year.

Short haired and hypoallergenic dogs shed as well but to a lesser extent.

A common misconception is that shaving/clipping the dog will stop the shedding. This is not true, this will not stop your dog or cat from shedding, you will however have less hair in the house as it will be shorter.

NOTE: Shaving a double coated dog, such as a Labrador, Husky or Chow, can damage their coat. Shaving these dogs does not help them to keep cooler. Brushing your dogs coat regularly is important.

Here are some ways to help you manage your pets shedding:

1.Have Your Dog or Cat Professionally Groomed

Yes we are promoting our services, but for good reason.

Groomers have a variety of brushes and will put in the time to remove the dead hair. They know what type of brushes to use for the specific coat.

In addition we use a strong dryer that helps to get rid of further loose hair.

Grooming certain breeds such as huskies is time consuming. So if you don’t have time to give your pooch or kitty a good groom, or have allergy problems, then give us a call.

2.Brush Your Pet Regularly

Brushing your pet seems obvious but the more hair you can brush out means the less hair on your floor and clothes. Brushing your longer haired breeds of dogs and cats also prevents mats and tangles.

Get a variety of brushes to brush your pet. There are special deshedding brushes that help remove the thick under coat.

Many people think cats do not need to be groomed but you will be amazed at how much hair can come off when being groomed.

Brushing between grooms is also important. If you don’t have the time, ask your domestic worker to help out. She will also be happy to have less hair in the house.

Your pet can be brushed on a daily basis. Do not push hard as you can make the area raw and sore if you brush excessively.

Ask us for advice on what brush to use for your specific pet.

3. Wash Your Pet Regularly

Washing your pet helps to loosen the dead hair and makes brushing easier.

Cats can also be washed and brushed regular – this will help with their allergy causing dander!

Remember to use a pet specific shampoo, human shampoos should not be used on pets.

“Pet owners are always worried about washing their pet too often and stripping their coat of oils. However, if a good quality, gentle shampoo is used, your dog or cat can be washed weekly.” says Dr Tarryn Dent, veterinarian.

4. Feed Good Quality Food

A complete and balanced diet is important for a healthy coat. Sometimes extreme shedding is as a result of poor nutrition. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids have been found to benefit skin and coat.

There are also a variety of supplements on the market. Send us a message if you need advice on pet foods and supplements. Our resident veterinarian, Dr Tarryn Dent will be able to advise.

5.Get a Vet Check Up

If your pet has extreme shedding it is best to take your pet for a check up to rule out any diseases or conditions.

You may want to consider foods with omega-3 fatty acids, which have been found to benefit skin and coat. You can find typically omega-3s in diets that are high in salmon and other fish as their main protein.

6. Dog/Cat Proof Your Furniture

If you are prone to allergies, get covers for your furniture and wash them regularly. You can ask the manufacturer of your couch for extra material which you can cut and drape over the seats so that it still looks neat.

Slip cover couches are also fantastic for pet owners.

7. Keep a Lint Roller in Your Car

Having pet hair on your clothes is inevitable. So at least keep a lint roller in your car. You can buy them from any pharmacy and is inexpensive.

8. Vacuum Frequently

Shedding is natural for your pet, so you will just need to learn to live with it. Vacuuming regularly will help your allergies and keep your home clean and hair free.

If you suffer from allergies, try to keep your pet out of the bedroom. If that’s not an option then try to vacuum your room even more frequently. And remember to brush and wash your pet regularly.