I think we can speak for everyone here – one of the biggest nuisance’s pet owners are faced with is unwanted hair in your homes.

Nearly every dog and cat – regardless of their age or breed, sheds.

While you cannot stop them from shedding all together, there are a number of methods to help reduce the amount of loose hair on your pet.

To help you out, Dr Mark has come up with his top 5 Ways to Reduce Excessive Shedding in Pets.

1. Healthy Diet

Poor nutrition is not only a big contributor to a dull looking coat, but it also increases the amount of shedding on your pet.

Just like us, pets aren’t going to look healthy on the outside, if they’re not feeling healthy on the inside. 

Therefore, to get your pet on track for a healthy coat, it’s best to begin from the inside out. 

A great place to start is trying them on a specifically formulated food such as Hill’s Science Diet Canine Adult Sensitive Skin or Hills Feline Z/D Skin/Food Sensitivities.

And if you have the time, we suggest experimenting with homemade meals for your pet.

That way you know exactly what is going into their meals, and there will be no hidden nasties.

To find out what foods are safe and unsafe for your pet, view our helpful guide here.

2. Brush Regularly

Not only does regular brushing create time for you and your pet to bond, but it also stimulates the skin and hair follicles.

This helps to increase the natural production of skin oils, making your pet’s coat shiny, healthy and strong. 

If you can, try brush your pet every couple of days, especially if they have a medium to long coat.

The Gripsoft Rubber Curry Brush works great to remove dead and shedding hair, whilst giving your pet a massage at the same time.

3. Bathe Often

How often you bathe your pet should depend on the length of their coat, and also how dirty they are.

Bathing once a month is a good general guideline, however if they make it a regular thing to run amuck in the mud, you may have to bathe them a little more often.

It’s important to understand that although it’s nice to have a clean smelling pet, you don’t want to bathe them too regularly, as this risks stripping the coat of essential oils. 

The Aloveen Oatmeal Shampoo is a medicated shampoo formulated to soothe any dryness, reduce shedding, and promote a glowing healthy coat.

4. A Little Oil

Adding 1 tsp – 1 tbs of oil into your pet’s food can help to keep their coat strong and shiny, and their skin healthy. 

Try flaxseed, olive or coconut oil – just make sure you don’t give them too much as this can lead to diarrhea. 

Alternatively, giving them a simple supplement such as PAW Dermega Omega 3 & 6 contains a combination of oils that assists with maintaining a healthy coat.

5. Sun Protection

Pets that have limited to no shelter from the elements, and spend most of their time outdoors, will naturally have coats that shed more, and are thicker and dryer.

This is due to their coats changing to provide them with natural protection. 

The best way to avoid this if you do have an outside pet, is to ensure they have a decent sized area to reside outside of the weather, and if possible try discourage them from lying in the sun for too long. 

Also, make sure they are staying hydrated and have access to fresh, cool water at all times.

If you have any other great tips for helping with your pet’s shedding, please let us know on our Facebook page or in the comments below. And if you’d like more vet approved pet health advice sign up to our monthly newsletter here, or visit www.vetshopaustralia.com.au/Pet-Health.