As the weather heats up, our furry friends start to feel the heat too. Summer is also the season when pets, especially those with thick fur, shed their coats. So, between the heat and shedding, it’s important to keep them comfortable and healthy by grooming them properly. Here are some tips to help you manage your pet’s shedding and keep them happy during the hot season.

Brush Their Fur Regularly

As soon as summer starts, you’ll notice your dogs and cats shedding more fur. It ends up all over your couch and clothes. To reduce this, make it a habit to brush your pet’s fur regularly. Depending on how long or thick their fur is, try brushing them at least three times a week or even daily. Regular brushing helps remove loose fur, reduce dust and dirt, and promote natural oils that keep their skin cool and healthy.

For cats, regular brushing during shedding season helps prevent fur from matting. If you have a long-haired cat, don’t forget to brush them regularly to keep their coat under control.

Consider Professional Grooming

While some pet owners like to groom their pets themselves, trimming their fur requires a bit of skill. Your pet’s fur acts as a natural insulator against both heat and cold, so trimming too much or too little can cause discomfort. If the fur is too thick, your pet might overheat, but if you cut it too short, their skin could get sunburned. This is why it’s best to take them to a professional groomer who knows how to handle different breeds and fur types. If your pet struggles with nail trimming, you can get their nails trimmed during the same grooming session, making it more convenient for both you and your pet.

Bathe Them to Keep Cool

Summer is a great time to give your furry friend a refreshing bath. Most dogs love to splash around, and regular baths help remove loose fur, dirt, and dust, leaving them cool and clean. While bathing, don’t forget to check their paws, nails, and ears to ensure everything is in good shape. After the bath, make sure to dry them off quickly to prevent any discomfort.

Cats, on the other hand, usually don’t need frequent baths since they groom themselves, but if they’ve gotten particularly dirty, a bath might be necessary. Just make sure to use pet-friendly shampoo suited for their breed and skin type.

Keep Their Diet Healthy

To help reduce shedding and keep your pet comfortable during the heat, it’s important to provide them with a balanced diet. Make sure their food is rich in protein, moderate in fat, and low in carbs. This will keep their coat healthy and shiny. Additionally, make sure they drink plenty of water, as dehydration can worsen shedding. During hot weather, it’s best to feed them wet food instead of dry kibble to increase their water intake. If you notice your pet eating less, especially during the summer, keep an eye on their food intake and ensure they’re getting the right nutrition.

Be Careful When Going Outside

If you’re taking your pet outside during the summer, avoid going out during the hottest parts of the day. Their paws are sensitive, and walking on hot pavement can cause burns. It’s better to walk them early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler. Also, summer is the season for grass seeds and insects, so after each walk, check your pet’s fur for any seeds or pests that may have gotten stuck. If you’re traveling by car, never leave your pet alone in the vehicle, even if you leave the window slightly open. The heat can quickly become unbearable, leading to severe health risks or even death.

Grooming your pet during the summer and shedding season is essential to their health and comfort. Whether it’s regular brushing, bathing, or professional grooming, these small acts go a long way in keeping them happy. So, make sure to pay extra attention to your furry friends during the hot months and enjoy the summer days together!