How to Deal With Cat Hair

As much as we love our cats, they tend to shed incessantly on furniture and clothing. Some long-haired breeds, such as Angoras and Persians, have particularly fine, silky hair which can be seemingly impossible to brush or vacuum. Before you start noticing accumulated tumbleweeds of cat hair meandering down the halls of your home, there are several approaches-both internal and external-that can keep your home and clothing from being covered in fur.

Things You'll Need

  • Wire bristled-brush
  • Rubber-nibbed brush
  • Vacuum with pet hair attachment
  • Dust cloths
  • Furniture throws
  • Adhesive lint roller
  • Shedding supplements
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Instructions

    • 1

      Brush your cat on a daily basis from front to back in the direction of hair growth. Start slowly to get the cat used to brushing sessions. Select a slicker brush made from fine wire bristles to trap loose hair and remove the undercoat on cats with long hair. Use a soft or rubber brush for use on cats with short hair. Remove and throw away the fur, when finished.

    • 2

      Vacuum carpets and furniture regularly, changing the vacuum bag often. Use a special vacuum attachment that has a beater brush and strong suction, to trap and suck up the fur. Dust glass or other hard surfaces with a clean cloth to remove fur and dander.

    • 3

      Purchase an adhesive lint roller to remove hair. Peel off the exterior cover that protects the sticky paper. Roll down the length of clothing or across couches or fabric in the home where cat fur is evident. Peel off and discard the sheet once the adhesive is no longer picking up the fur.

    • 4

      Feed quality food to the cat to ensure that shedding is not due to poor nutrition. Purchase fish oil or omega-3 fatty acid supplements made specifically for shedding, and apply these to the cat's food.

    • 5

      Consult a veterinarian if the cat suffers from food or dust allergies, which may cause excessive shedding.

    • 6

      Protect your furniture with attractive throws. Place them on the cat's favorite areas during times of heavy shedding. Throw them into the washing machine regularly to keep them clean and fresh.