Secrets to Reducing Shedding at Home

Seasonal shedding is a natural process for most pets. Pet owners in Los Angeles often notice that their dog’s or cat’s hair ends up everywhere during these periods. This raises an important question: how can you reduce shedding without harming your pet?

Our veterinary hospital, Animal Clinic International, shares effective methods in this guide.

What Is Deshedding and Why Is It Important?

Heavy shedding increases the risk of matting. To significantly reduce loose hair, a method called deshedding is used.

Deshedding is the gentle removal of dead undercoat that remains trapped within the fur. Special tools—such as a deshedding brush or undercoat rake (often called a Furminator)—are designed to reach deep into the coat and remove loose hair without damaging the skin or healthy topcoat.

This is a must-have solution for pets with thick undercoats.

Brushing Essentials: Frequency and Technique

Managing shedding requires consistency, but also правильний підхід та інструменти:

• Slicker brush — for detangling and initial brushing Use 1–3 times per week
• Comb — helps check results and remove remaining loose hair
• Deshedding tool (Furminator) —
  For long-haired and double-coated breeds: once a month
  During heavy shedding: up to once a week
• Rubber brush — ideal for short coats and gentle massage

Always brush in the direction of hair growth, without pulling or applying pressure. If your pet becomes tired or stressed, take a break.

Common Home Grooming Mistakes During Shedding

Keep in mind: overbrushing can irritate the skin and actually increase shedding.

Other common mistakes include:

• Pulling out mats — this can injure the skin and cause stress
• Ignoring proper nutrition — pets need fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins for a healthy coat
• Trying to stop shedding completely — this is impossible; the goal is to manage it, not eliminate it

Now you’ll know how to respond when your pet starts shedding more than usual.

Combining deshedding with proper brushing techniques will help your pet feel more comfortable—and save you from constantly cleaning up fur around your home.