Why do cats shed? How to prevent excessive hair loss?

Why do cats shed?

Shedding in cats is a natural and healthy process. However, excessive hair loss may be a sign of certain health problems. Seasonal changes, nutritional deficiencies such as vitamin and protein deficiency resulting from improper nutrition, some parasites such as fleas and ticks that settle in cats' fur, stressful situations or some skin problems such as eczema and fungal infection can cause excessive hair loss in cats. Treatment is usually determined by the source of the problem. If you think your cat is shedding more than normal, be sure to consult a veterinarian.

Seasonal hair loss in cats

Cats are animals that shed their hair seasonally. Although it may vary depending on the cat's skin and fur structure, they generally shed more in spring and autumn. Seasonal molting helps regenerate feathers; The finer hair that grows in place of the hair shedding in the spring allows your cat to have a cooler summer. The thin hair that falls out in the autumn is replaced by thicker hair that will help your cat stay warm in the winter. During shedding season, your cat may need a little more attention than usual to maintain a healthy coat. For example, pay attention to your cat's healthy diet, brush its fur regularly and keep its living space clean.

When does the shedding season of cats end?

Although cats usually shed in spring and autumn, depending on the cat's skin and fur structure and age, the shedding season may start at different times and continue for different periods of time. Generally, the shedding season lasts about 2-3 weeks and ends after the cat's coat regeneration is complete. However, in some cats, this process may take longer depending on factors such as the cat's health condition, living conditions and nutrition.

Nutrition-induced hair loss in cats

Inadequate or unbalanced nutrition of cats can also cause excessive shedding. If your cat does not receive sufficient amounts of protein, vitamins and minerals necessary for its body, it may prevent the healthy growth and regeneration of its fur. In addition, this nutritional deficiency may cause the fur to become dull, thin, sparse, or even fall out completely, leaving the cat naked. The causes of this problem are usually wrong and poor quality cat food, malnutrition, or digestive problems that prevent nutrient absorption in the cat. This problem can be completely eliminated with a balanced diet, adequate water consumption and regular veterinary control.

Feather loss caused by parasites in cats

Some parasites that live and multiply on the cat's skin and fur can trigger excessive hair loss by causing irritation, itching and even infections. Among these parasites, we can count external parasites such as fleas, lice, ticks and mites, as well as fungi and subcutaneous parasites. If you notice itching, dandruff, black rashes, crusty sores, and hair loss around your cat's mouth and nose, in its ears, tail, or anywhere else on its body, you may suspect a problem with parasites. You can prevent this problem by regularly checking your cat for fleas, ticks and fungi, and treating internal and external parasites at least every 2 months, and by regularly cleaning the items your cat uses.

Stress-related hair loss in cats

Cats can also shed excessively when faced with various stress factors. For example, changes in the house, the arrival of a new animal in the house, a change in the routine at home, loud noise or activity can stress your cat, and this stress can disrupt your cat's hormone balance and prevent its hair from growing and regenerating in a healthy way. In addition to shedding, dulling and thinning of the hair may occur. The only way to prevent it is to reduce the stress your cat is exposed to. Play with him, spend time with him, make sure he eats well, give him his favorite toys and make him relax. If it still doesn't get better, consult your veterinarian.

Hair loss caused by skin problems in cats

Skin infections, allergies, fungal infections, skin rashes or other skin conditions are another cause of hair loss in cats. Skin problems can prevent the healthy growth and regeneration of hair, causing problems such as dulling, thinning and loss of hair. If you see red or white pimples, blisters or crusty sores on your cat's skin, they may be caused by any skin condition. Nutritional support and skin care products are generally used in the treatment, and hair loss usually resolves completely after treatment. The treatment process must be followed by a veterinarian.

Drugs and vitamins for hair loss in cats

In the prevention and treatment of hair loss, thinning or matting in cats, vitamin and mineral supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, zinc, methionine and taurine, and protein supplements are generally recommended. For skin problems, antihistamine drugs, corticosteroids or antifungal drugs can be used. Appropriate use and dosages must be determined by a veterinarian. Some medications may vary depending on the cat's age, weight and health status. Additionally, products such as shampoo, conditioner and feather brush can be used for feather care. Hair loss is often a symptom of an underlying health problem, and medication should only be used to relieve symptoms.

Food to prevent cats from shedding

To prevent hair loss in cats, it is important to use a high quality, balanced and nutritious cat food. A good cat food is formulated to meet all the nutritional needs of cats and contain sufficient amounts of protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. Some foods are even produced specifically for cats' coat health. These foods may contain omega-3 fatty acids in addition to other nutrients. However, if the hair loss is caused by a health problem, changing the food will not have any effect. However, in some cases, special treatment foods are used to treat the underlying disease and these foods are given by the veterinarian. In such a case, it is necessary to consult a veterinarian.

Regional hair loss in cats

Fungal infections, allergic reactions, injuries, infections or parasites can sometimes cause intense hair loss in one area. Symptoms such as itching, irritation, redness or inflammation may also be observed in the area where the hair falls out. The treatment method is determined according to the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Anti-fungal medications can be used in some cases, such as fungal infections, and anti-histamine medications can be used for allergic reactions. Injuries and infections are usually treated with antibiotics.

How to prevent hair loss in cats?

There is no definitive method to prevent hair loss in cats. However, some tips below may help you reduce the amount of shedding:

• Ensure your cat is well fed and gets enough vitamins and minerals. Add the right amounts of nutritional supplements and fatty acids to their diet. Give him food suitable for his weight.
• Do not neglect his check-ups and vaccinations.
• Comb and brush his fur regularly with an appropriate brush
• Do not cut your cat's hair.
• Change his water frequently, keep his water and food bowls clean.
• Reduce your cat's stress level.
• Prevent exposure to excessively high temperatures.
• Clean your cat's living space.
• Do not bathe your cat unless you have to, cats are animals that can clean themselves and they do not like water.