Does it seem like your cat is shedding a lot? Is it normal? We help answer these questions here.
It is not uncommon to have some cat hairs falling around your house, but at what point is your cat shedding more than normal? Cats do have shedding seasons as they grow and lose their winter coats, but you might have a problem if you notice the signs below.
Signs of Problems to Look For
If your cat is shedding more than normal, you might see other accompanying symptoms, such as the following:
- Bald patches
- Rashes
- Scabs
- Flaky and greasy fur
- Excessive grooming
- Constant scratching
- Decreased or increased appetite
You will need to observe your cat to notice if its behavior has changed and inspect your cat’s fur for visible signs of unhealthy fur or skin. You can also take your cat to the vet for an inspection. If your cat is displaying abnormal behavior indicating skin or other health problems, please reach out to your veterinarian!
Reasons for Abnormal Shedding in Cats
- Parasites: Even indoor cats can get parasites like ringworm, fleas, ticks, lice, and the like. If that is the reason for your pet’s increased shedding, secure your home against further contamination and follow the vet’s prescription.
- Allergies: If your cat is allergic to pollen, grass, chemicals, specific foods, etc., it could react by shedding fur abnormally.
- Illnesses: If your cat is sick with something else, it could also lead to excessive shedding.
- Low-nutrition diet: Your diet affects how healthy your skin, hair, and other body parts are. Likewise, your cat’s fur will suffer if it lacks nutrients. Increasing its intake of omega-3 fatty acids can help, but please ask your vet for advice.
- Inability to groom itself: Cats will leave more fur around the house if they cannot groom themselves. They will not be able to do as good a job if they are obese, arthritic, or disabled in any other way.
- Stress: Stress can make you sick. If your cat moved house recently or lives with a pugnacious pet, it could start losing hair.
What Is Normal Shedding for Cats?
Shedding is also normal. As mentioned earlier, your cat will shed as it grows and loses its winter coat, which happens in fall and spring. Long-haired cat breeds tend to shed more, as they have more hair to renew. Cats also shed daily, just as people shed hair.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With three Maryland locations in Baltimore, Pasadena, and Cross Keys, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131, 410-793-7670, or 443-470-6790! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!