In this Article
Why Autumn Means More Hair Everywhere
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, cats start preparing their coats for the colder months. This seasonal shedding is completely natural: your cat is letting go of lighter summer fur to make space for a denser winter coat.
For cat parents, though, it often means tumbleweeds of fur on the sofa, more hairballs, and endless vacuuming. But with the right routine and a little nutritional support, autumn shedding can become easier to manage — and your cat’s coat will look shinier than ever.
Daily Care: Brushing Makes All the Difference
🪮 Brush regularly — Short-haired cats often need brushing 2–3 times a week, while long-haired breeds may require daily sessions. Brushing not only reduces loose fur but also stimulates circulation and strengthens the bond between you and your cat.
✨ Choose the right tool — Slicker brushes or grooming gloves work wonders for most short- to medium-haired cats, while wide-toothed combs help with long fur and prevent tangles.
🐾 Make it pleasant — Keep sessions short and reward with gentle words or a favorite treat. Grooming should feel like a spa moment, not a chore.
Bathing: Optional, but Sometimes Helpful
Cats are expert groomers, but during heavy shedding season, an occasional bath with a cat-safe shampoo can loosen dead fur. If your cat doesn’t tolerate water, use grooming wipes instead.
💡 Tip: Always dry your cat thoroughly and keep the room warm after a bath.
Nutrition: The Secret Behind a Shiny Coat
Diet plays a huge role in coat quality and shedding intensity. A well-balanced menu supports skin health, reduces dandruff, and helps fur regrow thicker and healthier.
🥩 High-quality protein — Cats are obligate carnivores, so their coat health starts with digestible, animal-based protein.
🐟 Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids — Found in salmon oil or specialized supplements, these support skin hydration and give fur that glossy finish.
💊 Essential vitamins & minerals — Zinc, biotin, and taurine are especially important for coat regeneration.
🍲 Raw or cooked? Both can work beautifully if the diet is complete and balanced (FEDIAF/AAFCO compliant). Cooked diets may help with digestibility and immunity, while raw diets can also deliver excellent coat condition — just make sure hygiene and formulation are handled properly.
Indoor Lifestyle: More Than Just Food
Cats that spend most of their time indoors sometimes shed more evenly year-round due to artificial lighting and temperature. That makes extra attention to grooming and diet even more important.
👉 Add vertical space like shelves, bridges, and wall-mounted playgrounds. Movement helps with circulation, reduces stress, and supports overall coat health. (At RshPets, we’ve seen how cats transform when they can climb and lounge freely indoors!)
When to See a Vet
Some shedding is natural, but if you notice bald spots, red skin, excessive scratching, or sudden changes in coat texture, consult your veterinarian. These may be signs of allergies, parasites, or other underlying conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Autumn shedding is normal, but manageable with regular brushing and occasional baths.
- A diet rich in animal protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients is the foundation of a shiny, healthy coat.
- Both raw and cooked diets are suitable — what matters most is balance, safety, and consistency.
- Indoor cats benefit from vertical playgrounds that keep them active, reducing stress and supporting overall health.
With the right care, autumn doesn’t have to mean endless shedding — it can be the season when your cat looks and feels their very best 🍁
A Note from Anastasiia
As the proud human of James — my majestic Scottish Straight — I know all too well what it’s like to live with fur on every surface. James seems to shed almost year-round, no matter the season. Brushing him has become our little ritual, and it not only keeps the house tidier but also gives us a few quiet moments of bonding every day. If your cat sheds as much as mine, don’t worry — with patience and the right care, you’ll both get through it beautifully🐾