Fall Shedding in Dogs & Cats | Gentle Paws Grooming O’Fallon IL

As we move into fall, many pet owners start noticing something familiar: more fur on the floor, on the furniture, and probably on your clothes too.

Seasonal shedding is normal for many dogs and cats. As daylight and temperatures change, some pets naturally begin releasing portions of their summer coat to prepare for cooler weather.

For some pets, the change is subtle. For others, it can feel like fur is suddenly everywhere.

At Gentle Paws Grooming in O’Fallon, Illinois, I see seasonal shedding in pets of all coat types — including short-haired cats and dogs that owners may not expect to shed heavily.

Why Do Dogs and Cats Shed More in the Fall?

Many pets have coats designed to adjust throughout the year.

Double-coated dogs, in particular, have a soft insulating undercoat beneath their outer coat. During seasonal transitions, some of that older coat loosens and needs to come out.

Indoor pets may shed somewhat differently because artificial lighting and climate-controlled homes can affect their natural coat cycles. That means some pets shed steadily year-round while still having heavier shedding periods in spring and fall.

And even short-haired pets can shed quite a bit. A short coat does not always mean a low-shedding coat.

Why Removing Loose Coat Matters

Loose fur is more than just a housekeeping issue.

When excess coat stays trapped, it can contribute to tangles, compacted undercoat, and matting. It may also hold dirt and oils closer to the skin.

For cats, removing loose hair can also reduce the amount of fur swallowed during self-grooming, which may help decrease hairballs.

Regular grooming helps keep the coat cleaner, lighter, and easier to maintain between appointments.

Benefits of a Professional Deshedding Treatment

A professional deshedding treatment is more than simply brushing your pet for a few extra minutes.

At Gentle Paws Grooming, a deshedding service includes products selected to help loosen dead coat, followed by thorough drying and brushing to remove as much loose undercoat as comfortably possible.

One of the most effective parts of the process happens during the blow dry. The airflow helps separate the coat and release loose fur that may otherwise stay trapped close to the skin.

I always work at the individual pet’s comfort level. The goal is not to remove every loose hair in one session. The goal is to safely reduce excess coat without unnecessary pulling, tugging, or irritation.

How to Reduce Pet Shedding at Home

Regular brushing between professional grooming appointments can make a big difference.

The best brush depends on your pet’s coat type, but consistency is often more important than spending a long time brushing all at once. A few gentle brushing sessions throughout the week can help prevent loose coat from building up.

Pay special attention to areas where friction occurs, including:

• Behind the ears

• Under the legs

• Around collars and harnesses

• Along the rear legs and tail area

If your brush no longer moves easily through the coat or you notice tight clumps close to the skin, it may be time for professional grooming rather than trying to force the brush through.

When Excessive Shedding May Need Veterinary Attention

Some shedding is completely normal, but sudden or significant changes in the skin or coat deserve attention.

Contact your veterinarian if you notice:

• Bald patches

• Red or inflamed skin

• Excessive scratching

• Sores or scabs

• Sudden dramatic hair loss

• A major change in your pet’s normal coat

Professional grooming can support healthy skin and coat maintenance, but it cannot diagnose or treat an underlying medical condition.

Professional Deshedding in O’Fallon, IL

Fall is a great time to give your pet’s coat a fresh start before cooler weather arrives.

At Gentle Paws Grooming in O’Fallon, IL, I provide one-on-one grooming for cats and dogs with a focus on comfort, patience, and individualized care. Professional deshedding treatments can help reduce loose fur around your home while keeping your pet’s coat clean and manageable.

If your dog or cat seems to be leaving a little more fur behind lately, a deshedding treatment may be a great option.

Ready to get ahead of shedding season?Book your pet’s grooming or deshedding appointment here:https://booking.moego.pet/ol/GentlePawsGrooming127765/package

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should my dog get a deshedding treatment?

It depends on your dog’s coat type, shedding pattern, and how much brushing is done at home. Some pets benefit from professional deshedding every 4–8 weeks, while others may only need it seasonally.

Do short-haired cats need professional grooming?

They can. Short-haired cats may still shed heavily, develop excess oil buildup, or benefit from regular nail trims and coat maintenance. Professional grooming can help remove loose fur and reduce shedding around the home.

Will a deshedding treatment stop shedding completely?

No. Shedding is a natural process and cannot be stopped completely. A professional deshedding treatment can significantly reduce the amount of loose coat, but ongoing brushing and routine grooming are still important.

Can deshedding help with hairballs?

For cats, removing loose coat may reduce the amount of fur they swallow while grooming themselves, which may help decrease hairballs.

Is professional deshedding safe for all pets?

Most pets can benefit from gentle coat maintenance, but the best approach depends on coat type, skin condition, age, and temperament. I adjust the grooming process based on each pet’s individual comfort and needs.