Change of coat in spring. The 7 best tips and tricks.

Spring is just around the corner. A lovely season with milder weather and green landscapes. But it is not only the weather that changes in spring, there is also a change in our pets: the coat change is imminent. Many dog owners and cat lovers are familiar with the annual phenomenon of changing fur in spring, but what exactly happens in the body of our four-legged friends?

Why do dogs and cats change their coats in spring?

During winter, dogs and cats wear a warm undercoat, which protects them from the cold. In spring, however, the coat becomes thinner so that they do not overheat at higher temperatures. This process is started by rising temperatures and ever longer daylight, but also by hormones. It usually takes between 6-8 weeks.

How does the coat change manifest itself?

During a coat change, dogs and cats lose more hair. You usually notice this quickly, especially on the floor and on your clothes. Sometimes you also notice significant changes in the animal's coat, such as a change in color or hair growth. However, this is a rather rare phenomenon. Most animals are a bit more sensitive during the coat change and scratch themselves more often or lick their fur more often.

How can you help your dog or cat change their coat?

During the coat change, it is important that you support your pet.

With the right care, the summer coat also becomes shiny and soft.

1. Daily coat care: During the coat change, you should groom and brush your pet's coat daily. This removes the old coat and supports the growth of new fur. Always brush in the direction of hair growth - from head down towards the body and legs. If you have thicker hair growth, you can make a parting and divide the coat into several segments. This technique is called line brushing.

2. Get your pet used to brushing: Some animals find brushing more unpleasant. Therefore, you should slowly get your four-legged friend used to it. Take short breaks again and again and don't overwhelm your darling. Treats often also help to make grooming a positive experience.

3. Comb and brush gently: Don't apply pressure while brushing. Otherwise, this can not only cause anxiety in your four-legged friend, but also lead to skin irritation, dandruff, or injuries. Fur that does not come off immediately is usually looser the next day and can be combed out very easily. #

4. Use the right tools: “Which brush is right for my four-legged friend?” You've probably asked yourself this question before. The market is big, the selection is huge. We recommend brushes with rounded prongs. These protect sensitive skin and also promote blood circulation. If necessary, check with the vet which brush is suitable for your animal. Here is a selection for hounds and cats By the way, many dogs and cats find grooming gloves particularly pleasant, as they come very close to “petting”.

5. Healthy diet: A balanced diet is essential for healthy coat growth. It is important that you provide your four-legged friend with enough nutrients and vitamins. These include, for example, unsaturated fatty acids, the trace elements zinc, copper and iodine, vitamins A and E or, particularly important, biotin. Here, too, you can ask your vet which diet is suitable for your animal.

6. Offer cat grass: Cats can swallow more hair when grooming their coat, especially in spring. To prevent the formation of unpleasant hairballs in the digestive tract, they either excrete or regurgitate the hair. Cat grass, which you should make available to your cat, is helpful for this, especially for indoor cats. But keep in mind: The amount of cat grass that your cat picks up should be kept in mind. Too much of it can cause mucosal inflammation.

7. Watch your pet change its coat: The change of coat in spring is quite normal. However, you should keep an eye on your four-legged friend. Especially when it seems to you that the change to summer fur will take longer than usual, or if it is more fur than usual. If you find circular hairless areas, reddened skin, inflammation, or oily and dull coat, you should see a vet urgently. Fungal diseases, mites, or fleas could be the cause.

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