Home Remedies for Pet Shedding

Cat and dog owners alike can sympathize with the constant battle of minimizing pet hair around the house. While you cannot stop your pet from shedding, there are many steps you can take to minimize the amount of pet hair around your home, and help your pet lead a healthy life. The amount of grooming maintenance required for your pet will depend greatly upon the length and density of your pet's coat.

  1. Healthy Eating Habits

    • A well balanced diet is as significant to your pet's health as it is your own. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) notes that a "high-quality, age-appropriate food results in a healthy coat, more energy and fewer costly trips to the vet." Talk to your veterinarian about which food would best suit your pet's needs.

    Brushing

    • Grooming your pet by brushing its fur regularly is one of the most straightforward ways to reduce pet shedding. Cats are clean animals by nature, and can be seen bathing themselves at any time of the day or night. While dogs are more likely to waltz through the door covered in mud, they also enjoy a clean, healthy coat. You can help your pet feel its best by regular brushing.

      The ASPCA notes short-haired cats and dogs can be brushed once a week, while long haired cats and dogs will need daily attention to properly maintain their coats. Should your pet's coat become matted, contact your vet or make an appointment with a local groomer. You should not attempt to remove the mats yourself unless you have been properly trained in professional pet grooming, or you will risk damaging your pet's skin and causing him unnecessary pain in the process. That said, by carefully using some scissors, or a beard trimmer, you can easily cut away the matted hair.

    Pet Store Solutions

    • Like any pet, there are hundreds of grooming and health items available at your local veterinarian office or pet store to help reduce pet shedding around your home. While these products have been approved for use, be sure to read the labels carefully and consult your veterinarian if you are unsure of how a product will effect your pet.

    When to See a Veterinarian

    • Any missing patches of fur on your cat or dog should be reported to your veterinarian immediately. While shedding is a natural process, cats and dogs are not designed to loose their fur in large clumps. Signs of hair loss may also be an indication of a wound or skin irritation, so be sure to check your pet's skin thoroughly. Excessive hair loss can also be an indication of a more serious illness. If your pet is in critical need of medical assistance and your veterinarian's office is closed, you can bring your pet to a 24 hour emergency pet center.