The Great Spring Shed: Tips for Managing Coat Changes & Promoting Healthy Skin

Coping with the Great Spring Shed

Well, spring's properly settled in now, hasn't it? Longer days, bit o' sunshine... and for us pet owners, that means one thing for sure: the annual explosion of fur! It's the 'great spring shed', when our furry mates get ready for warmer weather.

While a bit of extra fluff on the furniture is normal, we can help manage the moult and keep our pets' skin healthy and comfy during the change.

Why Does My Pet Shed So Much in Spring?

It's all down to daylight. As the days get longer, it triggers hormonal changes that tell your pet's body it's time to shed that dense undercoat. Indoor pets might shed more evenly year-round due to artificial lighting, but most will have a noticeable increase now.

Top Tips for Managing the Spring Moult

Good grooming is your best friend during shedding season.

• Brush, Brush, Brush: Regular brushing is key. This removes loose fur before it ends up on your sofa. Choose the right brush for your pet's coat type – slicker brushes, undercoat rakes, or grooming mitts can all work wonders. Aim for daily brushing during peak shedding.
• Bath Time: A warm bath can help loosen dead hair. Use a gentle pet-specific shampoo. Don't overdo the bathing, though, as it can dry out their skin.
• Tidy Trims: For some long-haired breeds, a professional groom or a careful trim can help manage the volume of shedding hair.

Healthy Skin Starts from Within

Did you know your pet's diet plays a massive role in their skin and coat health? What they eat really shows on the outside.

A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports healthy skin and can even help manage shedding. Look for foods containing:

• Omega Fatty Acids: Omega-3 and Omega-6 are brilliant for reducing inflammation and promoting a shiny, healthy coat. You'll find these in good quality fish oils and flaxseed.
• Quality Protein: Hair is mostly protein, so easily digestible protein sources are vital for strong, healthy fur growth.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Zinc, Biotin (a B vitamin), and Vitamin E are particularly important for skin health.

Lovejoys Pet Food understands this. Our recipes are carefully crafted with quality ingredients to provide balanced nutrition, supporting your pet's skin and coat from the inside out, season after season. Feeding a high-quality diet like Lovejoys can make a real difference to coat condition and may help make shedding periods more manageable.

Other Things to Keep in Mind

• Hydration: Ensure your pet always has access to fresh, clean water. Dehydration can affect skin health.
• Check for Issues: While shedding is normal, excessive hair loss, bald patches, or irritated skin isn't. If you spot anything unusual, have a chat with your vet. Sometimes, excessive shedding can signal an underlying health issue or allergy.

The spring shed might mean a bit more hoovering, but with regular grooming and the right nutrition, you can keep the fluff under control and ensure your furry mate has comfortable skin and a gleaming coat ready for summer fun.