Shedding hair is a common characteristic of almost all cats. Over time, cat owners eventually get used to this condition. However, there are times when the amount of loose hair can increase significantly, such as in situations of stress, nutritional deficiencies, ingestion of low-quality food, parasite infestation, or health problems such as mange, ringworm, dermatitis, and autoimmune diseases.
Therefore, it is necessary to observe the feline as a whole. Hair loss is often linked to an endocrine problem. Cats may have dull fur and other changes that are not directly related to the skin. Some cats develop symmetrical lesions due to repetitive acts, such as constantly licking the same place. To identify the cause, if it is clinical, there are specific tests that the veterinarian may order.
NATURAL PROCESS
But don’t worry, not all excessive hair loss is related to low immunity or diseases. Annual hair loss is a natural process, with the time of year and temperature influencing hair loss. In places with defined seasons, this shedding is more restricted to certain times of the year. In Brazil, where there are constant temperature variations, this shedding can be almost constant.
Therefore, observing your cat’s routine, behavior and physical appearance is very important to help diagnose the problem and ensure its well-being. Below, I have listed 6 tips (in addition to taking your pet to the vet, which should be the first step!) to help reduce the problem. Check them out:
1. Reduce stress
Hair loss can occur after stressful situations and usually stops within a few days, as long as the triggering factor is eliminated or minimized. Owners should be concerned if hair loss becomes constant and causes problems such as frequent vomiting of hairballs and thinning of the coat.
I recommend taking steps to reduce stress in certain situations, such as before going to the vet, before moving house, or before a new animal arrives at home. Getting your cat used to the carrier, using synthetic pheromones, and using wet food are some ways to reduce stress.
2. Ensure the necessary nutrients
Diet is directly linked to the condition of the coat. An inadequate diet can cause nutritional deficiencies, affecting the shine, color and strength of the coat. Deficiencies in essential fatty acids and B vitamins can also result in a dull coat and flaky skin.
Therefore, investing in super-premium food with good ingredients or in a balanced natural diet with professional supervision is essential. Remember: cats are obligate carnivores, so it is essential that the food chosen has a high percentage of animal protein.
3. Perform hygiene correctly
Cats constantly clean themselves with their rough tongues, swallowing some of the loose hair. In cases of excessive shedding, this can aggravate the formation of hairballs. Therefore, proper hygiene of the cat helps to prevent the formation of hairballs and keeps the coat healthier. Since they already take “baths” on their own, our part is to brush them, preferably daily! Use a soft brush with silicone protection on the tips and, if necessary, associate the moment with a tasty food.
Furthermore, it is essential to keep vaccinations and antiparasitic treatments up to date, as well as consult your veterinarian about the need for “real” baths.
4. Choose the right cleaning product
Cats can develop skin allergies due to airborne agents or cleaning materials. This can cause bumps on the skin and hair loss, often caused by excessive licking. Therefore, use disinfectants specifically designed for pets to clean furniture and floors, avoiding common bleaches. If you notice signs of allergies, consult your veterinarian.
5. Omega 3
Omega 3 is a great ally against hair loss, in addition to helping the health of the animal’s skin in general. For cats, it can be administered in capsules or drops, and since it smells and tastes like fish, it is usually well accepted by them. But be careful: each animal has its own needs and characteristics, so it is not recommended to offer any type of supplementation without consulting a veterinarian.
6. Enrich the environment
Enriching and verticalizing your cat’s environment is essential for reducing hair loss because it provides physical and mental stimulation that is vital for feline health. Stimulating environments, with shelves, scratching posts and toys, encourage cats to move around more, which helps combat a sedentary lifestyle and boredom, factors that can contribute to stress.
Furthermore, regular physical activity promotes healthy skin and a stronger coat, thus reducing excessive shedding. Therefore, by providing a vertical and enriched environment, we not only improve the quality of life of felines, but also help maintain the health of their coats.