Cat hair tends to stick around no matter how much you sweep, vacuum, or dust. The good news is that shedding is normal in cats. However, excessive shedding can be a sign of potential medical issues. Our veterinarians in Little Elm will explain when excessive shedding could be problematic.
Why do cats shed?
Shedding occurs to remove dead hair and release natural oils into the skin. It eliminates dead hair that has not been removed by grooming or brushing.
Indoor cats in particular face air conditioning in the summer, heaters in the winter, and artificial lighting. This might confuse their system, resulting in almost constant shedding. Another factor that influences shedding is whether your cat is a long-haired or short-haired breed.
There are a few more typical causes of shedding that you should be aware of:
Food: Cats who are not fed a balanced diet may have increased shedding. Healthy skin and coats require high-quality, nutritionally-full meals.
Stress: Stress can cause cats to over-groom or under-groom, both of which contribute to increased shedding. Your cat may lose their appetite, begin sleeping more or less, and become anti-social, withdrawing to quiet places in your home.
Age: Cats tend to groom themselves less frequently as they age, which can result in increased shedding or matted fur.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes can cause your pregnant female cat to lose more hair. The good news is that this is only temporary, and the excess shedding should stop once your cat gives birth.
Why is my cat shedding a lot more than usual?
If you're worried about your cat's excessive shedding, it's time for a veterinary dermatology visit. The veterinarian will assess the pattern and distribution of hair loss and whether the hair is shed or broken off. The skin will be examined for signs of infection or parasites. The veterinarian may also perform lab tests such as skin scrapings, hair examinations, blood work, and urinalysis.
Some reasons your cat could be shedding more than usual include:
Parasites: Mites and fleas (especially if your cat is allergic to them) can drive your cat to gnaw and scratch, resulting in increased hair loss. Even though you cannot see these bugs moving around on your cat, their presence can be problematic.
Allergies: Allergies may be at blame if your cat sheds a lot. Allergies can be difficult to detect because your cat will naturally shed at these times of the year. The key to resolving the problem is understanding what your cat is allergic to, such as certain foods, dust, or even pollen. Your veterinarian can assist you in determining the source of the allergy and providing a treatment to make your cat more comfortable.
Skin Infection: Bacterial and fungal infections can impact your cat's coat and cause them to shed excessively.
Diseases: Some diseases can cause your cat to shed more than it should. These can include kidney, liver, thyroid, or adrenal gland diseases, and some types of cancer.
Behavioral Disorders: Some behavioral disorders (such as stress, listed above) can cause excessive licking and chewing, leading to shedding.
If your veterinarian believes that a medical problem causes the shedding, they will recommend a treatment plan to address it. It is critical to follow their recommendations closely. Your cat's shedding should return to normal levels when the underlying medical condition is resolved.
Why should I bring my cat to the vet for excessive shedding?
As mentioned, excessive shedding in cats can be caused by various medical issues. Ringworm, thyroid disorders, fleas, and other problems might cause your cat's hair to fall out. If you observe any changes in your cat's health, it's usually a good idea to take them to the vet.
Increased shedding is usually not a big deal, and you may be able to lessen it after you figure out what's causing it. Diet and nutrition can play a role, so evaluating all variables is critical.
In the meantime, a powerful vacuum built for pet-friendly houses can be useful, as can a few lint rollers. Cleaning up cat hair regularly might help limit the amount of it that ends up on your clothes.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.