A simple grooming routine for heavy-shedding pets

Why pets shed

Shedding is simply the natural cycle of old or damaged hair making way for new growth. Most cats and dogs shed year-round and ramp up in spring and autumn as their coats change with the season. You can't stop it — but regular grooming removes loose fur before it ends up on your sofa, and keeps the coat and skin in better condition.

Brush little and often

Consistency beats marathon sessions. A few minutes several times a week does far more than an occasional hour-long battle. Use a deshedding brush that reaches the loose undercoat, and always work in the direction the fur grows, in calm, gentle strokes.

• Short-haired pets: 2–3 times a week is usually plenty
• Long-haired or double-coated pets: aim for most days, especially in moulting season
• Keep sessions short and positive, and stop before your pet gets restless
• Reward with a treat so grooming builds good associations

Bathe — but don't overdo it

An occasional bath helps loosen dead hair, but washing too often strips natural oils and can leave skin dry and itchy. For most pets, a bath every couple of months — or when they're genuinely dirty — is enough. Always use a pet-specific shampoo and brush the coat through once it's dry.

Manage hair around the home

Even with great grooming, some fur escapes. A reusable pet-hair remover lifts it from furniture and clothing without sticky refills, and a quick daily pass over the favourite napping spots keeps things on top of it rather than overwhelming.

Diet and when to see a vet

A complete diet with healthy fats supports a stronger, less brittle coat, so it's worth getting nutrition right. But excessive shedding, bald patches, broken skin, or constant scratching aren't just cosmetic — they can signal allergies, parasites, or other issues. If the shedding looks abnormal, check in with your vet.