Shedding is normal. Healthy dogs and cats shed old hair to make way for new growth, and many shed more heavily at certain times of the year. You can't stop it, but regular brushing catches loose fur on the brush instead of on your sofa.
Why brushing helps
- Less fur around the house: loose hair ends up in the brush, not on the floor.
- Fewer tangles and mats: especially in long or thick coats.
- Healthier-looking coat: brushing spreads natural oils through the fur.
- A quick health check: you'll notice lumps, skin irritation, fleas or ticks sooner.
How often should you brush?
It depends on the coat:
- Short, smooth coats: about once a week is usually enough.
- Medium and double coats: a few times a week, and more often during heavy shedding.
- Long coats: ideally daily or every other day, to prevent tangles and mats.
If you're not sure what your pet's coat needs, ask your groomer or vet.
A simple 5-minute routine
- Pick a calm moment. After a walk or play session, when your pet is relaxed.
- Start where they like it. Most pets enjoy brushing on the back and shoulders. Save the belly, legs and tail for later.
- Brush with the direction of the fur, using gentle, short strokes. Never pull on knots.
- Work in sections, clearing the brush as it fills up.
- End on a good note with praise or a treat, before your pet gets restless.
Dealing with knots and mats
Hold the fur close to the skin so you don't tug, and gently work small knots loose with your fingers or the tips of the brush. Tight mats close to the skin are best left to a professional groomer. Cutting them out with scissors can easily nick the skin.
Brushing a cat that hates it
- Keep sessions very short, just a few strokes at first.
- Brush around the cheeks and head, where many cats enjoy it.
- Stop before your cat does. Tail flicking or skin twitching means it's time for a break.
When to see a vet
Heavy shedding with bald patches, redness, sores, constant scratching or a dull, brittle coat can point to a health problem. Talk to your vet if you notice any of these.
Our pick
Our Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush removes loose fur and tangles, and one click pushes the collected hair off the pins so you can throw it away. It works on long and short coats. For bath time, see our Grooming & Bath collection.