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Does your pet leave piles of hair behind everywhere he or she goes? Although all dogs and cats shed, excessive shedding may be a sign of a health problem or a grooming issue. Fortunately, shedding can be reduced in many cases with medical treatment or a change to your pet's grooming routine.
Why Do Pets Shed?
Your pet's hair, just like your own, goes through a continuous growth cycle. When older hairs fall out, they're replaced by new ones. Seasonal changes can play a role in the amount of hair your pet sheds. In anticipation of the cold weather months, your dog or cat's coat may become thicker. As spring approaches, it's not unusual to shed a little more hair than usual as your pet's body prepares for warmer weather.
Because shedding patterns can vary from pet to pet, it's not necessarily a cause for concern if one of your pets sheds more than another. Changes are only worrisome if they represent a significant change in your cat or dog's usual shedding pattern.
What Causes Excessive Shedding?
Shedding may increase due to any of these factors:
What Can Be Done About Excessive Shedding?
A visit to the veterinarian is a must if you've noticed that your pet is shedding more than usual. Depending on your dog or cat's diagnosis, one or more of these treatments may be recommended:
Your pet's veterinarian may also offer suggestions that will prevent shedding in the future, such as reducing allergen exposure with regular baths and a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter or stress reduction tips.
Would you like to put an end to your pet's excessive shedding? Schedule an appointment with our office. We'll perform a thorough examination and offer treatments and solutions that will improve your pet's hair loss problem.
PetMD: Is Your Pet’s Excessive Shedding a Sign of Illness?
American Animal Hospital Association: It’s Winter? Why Is My Pet Shedding So Much?
Pet Health Network: Dog Hair Could Shed Light on Cushings Disease in Dogs