Fall Shedding in Pets: Why It Happens and How to Manage It

As the seasons change, many pet parents notice an increase in fur around the house, on the couch, and even on their clothes. Fall is one of the peak shedding seasons for dogs and cats. While shedding is perfectly normal, there are steps you can take to minimize the mess and keep your pet’s coat healthy.

Why Do Pets Shed in the Fall?

Pets naturally adjust their coats to match the changing seasons. In the fall, they shed their lighter summer coats to make room for a thicker winter coat that will keep them warm. Several factors influence shedding:

Seasonal changes – Shorter daylight hours trigger hormonal changes that signal coat growth or loss.
Breed and genetics – Double-coated breeds (like Huskies, German Shepherds, and certain cats) shed more heavily during seasonal transitions.
Overall health – Poor nutrition, stress, or underlying health issues can increase shedding beyond what’s normal.

Preventing Excessive Shedding Through Diet

A healthy coat starts on the inside. What your pet eats directly impacts the quality of their skin and fur.

High-quality protein: Protein is the building block of healthy hair. Foods with real meat as the first ingredient support coat strength.
Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids: Found in fish oil, flaxseed, and certain pet foods, these fatty acids reduce dryness, itching, and flakiness.
Vitamins and minerals: Zinc, vitamin E, and biotin play essential roles in skin health and coat shine.
Hydration: Pets with dry skin may shed more. Feeding moisture-rich diets, such as wet food or raw food, can help.

(Tip: At J-B Pet Supplies, we carry a wide range of high-quality foods, supplements, and toppers with skin-and-coat support to help reduce shedding.)

Grooming Tips to Control Fall Shedding

Regular grooming not only helps manage shedding but also keeps your pet’s skin healthy and their coat comfortable.

Brush often: Daily brushing (especially for double-coated breeds) helps remove loose fur before it spreads around your home.
Use the right tools: Deshedding brushes, grooming gloves, and undercoat rakes can make a big difference.
Bathe with care: A moisturizing shampoo can loosen dead hair and prevent dry skin. Avoid over-bathing, which can strip natural oils.
Professional grooming: For heavy shedders, a trip to the groomer for a blowout or deshedding treatment can be a lifesaver.

When to Worry About Shedding

While seasonal shedding is normal, there are times when it may signal a problem. Contact your veterinarian if you notice:

Bald patches or thinning fur
Excessive itching, redness, or sores
Dull, brittle hair despite a good diet
Sudden or unusual changes in shedding patterns

Final Thoughts

Fall shedding is a natural process, but with the right diet and grooming routine, you can minimize the fur tumbleweeds in your home. More importantly, you’ll keep your pet’s coat healthy and comfortable all season long.

Stop by J-B Pet Supplies to explore our full selection of foods, supplements, brushes, shampoos, and grooming tools designed to help manage shedding and keep your furry friend looking their best.