Spring is just around the corner, and stores are already filling with seasonal trappings. For people with pets, this time of year can be a bit challenging. As Fluffy and Fido exchange their winter coats for summer wardrobes, you may be finding fur, well, everywhere. We can help! A Saginaw, MI vet offers some tips on getting through shedding season below.

Shed Rates

Our canine pals don’t all shed at the same rate … or even at the same time. Some pups, such as Labradors, Newfoundlands, Corgis, and Akitas, will shed enough fur to create a whole new dog. Others, such as poodles, don’t shed much at all. Shedding schedules also vary. Golden retrievers, for instance, tend to shed continuously. Others, like collies and Samoyeds, basically blow their whole coats seasonally.

Brushing

The best way to stay on top of all that fur is to brush your furry companion regularly. If it’s warm enough, take Fido outside for his beauty sessions. The hair will blow away … and may even be helpful for birds that are building their nests. (You may want to wear an apron … or a hazmat suit.) 

Indoors

Is your furry companion a heavy shedder? If so, we would recommend vacuuming daily. That doesn’t mean doing the whole house every day. Just do your four-legged buddy’s favorite hangouts and the high traffic areas, and follow up with more thorough cleanings about once a week. You may find robotic vacuum cleaners helpful. Speaking of vacuums, some companies make attachments you can actually use on your pet. This is fine if your furry friend doesn’t mind, but don’t force it.

Reducing Sheds

As mentioned above, pets’ shedding cycles are mostly tied to their coat types. However, there are a few other factors, particularly with cats. For instance, kitties that go outside are more exposed to seasonal weather cycles that trigger heavy shedding, so keeping Fluffy inside will help. For both dogs and cats, a proper diet is also crucial. Pets that aren’t getting proper nutrition tend to have more dead fur, which then translates into more shedding. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Furbusting

Rubber dish gloves can be very helpful at getting pet fur off of your furniture. A damp sponge or squeegee can also help. 

As your local Saginaw, MI pet hospital, we’re always here to help. Please feel free to contact us anytime!