Too Much Shedding? Here’s How to Help Your Pet (and Save Your Sofa)

If you're a pet parent, you’ve probably accepted that fur is just part of the package. It clings to your couch, floats through the air, coats your clothes, and somehow ends up in your coffee. But have you ever noticed that your dog or cat seems to shed way more during the warmer months?

You’re not imagining things—summer shedding is real, and it can be intense. Luckily, there are some simple, effective ways to manage it without losing your mind (or your lint roller). Let’s break down why cats and dogs shed more in summer, and what you can do to keep the fur from taking over your home.

Why Do Pets Shed So Much When It’s Hot?

1. They’re Getting Rid of Their Winter Coats

Just like you swap out your puffer jacket for a t-shirt in the summer, your pets do the same—only they can’t open a closet, so they shed their extra layers instead.

Most dogs and cats grow a thicker coat in the winter to keep warm. When spring rolls around and the days get longer and warmer, they start to lose that coat in preparation for summer. This is especially true for double-coated breeds like Huskies, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Maine Coon cats.

This natural process is called “blowing the coat,” and it usually happens once or twice a year—spring and fall being the big ones.

2. Longer Days Trigger Shedding

It’s not just the temperature. Your pet’s body responds to changes in daylight, not just heat. As the days get longer, their biological clock sends a signal: time to shed!

Even indoor pets go through this cycle because they still pick up on the changing light, especially if your windows let in lots of sunshine during the day.

3. Some Pets Shed Year-Round

If your pet lives mostly indoors, you might notice they shed a little all year long. That’s because artificial lighting and climate control confuse their natural shedding cycle. Still, most pets will shed more heavily during seasonal transitions—spring into summer being the big one.

How to Deal with Fur... Everywhere

Now that you know why your pet is turning your home into a fur factory, let’s talk about what you can do to manage it. The good news? With a little effort (and the right tools), you can keep things under control.

1. Brush Your Pet Often—Like, Really Often

This is your first line of defense. Brushing helps remove loose fur before it ends up on your sofa or in your salad.

• For dogs: Use a slicker brush, undercoat rake, or deshedding tool depending on their coat type.
• For cats: A rubber grooming mitt or fine-tooth comb can work wonders, especially for long-haired breeds.

Aim for daily brushing during peak shedding seasons. Not only will your pet look better, but it also reduces hairballs (for cats) and matting.

2. Bathe Them Occasionally

A warm bath can help loosen dead fur and make brushing more effective. Just be sure to use a pet-friendly shampoo—human products can dry out their skin.

If your pet hates bath time (looking at you, most cats), consider scheduling a grooming appointment. Many groomers offer deshedding treatments that work wonders, especially during the heavy-shed months.

3. Vacuum Like You Mean It 

When fur is flying, your vacuum is your best friend. Choose a vacuum designed for pet hair, ideally with strong suction and a HEPA filter.

• Vacuum carpets, rugs, and furniture at least a few times a week.
• Don’t forget under the couch, along baseboards, and on stairs.
• Use upholstery attachments for couches and pet beds.

You’d be surprised where fur hides (or maybe you wouldn’t—if you’ve ever found it inside your fridge).

4. Use Furniture Covers or Washable Throws

Designate your pet’s favorite lounging spots and cover them with washable blankets or slipcovers. This makes it easier to keep fur in one place—and to toss it in the wash when things get hairy (literally).

There are even waterproof, non-slip covers made just for pet owners. Bonus: they also help with drool, muddy paws, and the occasional “oops.”

5. Keep a Lint Roller in Every Room

You never know when you’ll need one. Lint rollers, sticky brushes, or reusable pet hair removers are great for clothes, car seats, and upholstery. Keep one by the front door for last-minute touch-ups before you head out.

6. Air Purifiers Help Too

Did you know pet fur can become airborne, along with dander and allergens? A good HEPA air purifier helps trap all those floating particles, making your home cleaner and the air easier to breathe—especially if you or someone in your family has allergies.

7. Don’t Forget Diet and Health

Healthy skin and coat start from the inside out. Make sure your pet is getting a nutrient-rich diet, especially foods high in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. These help reduce excessive shedding and improve coat texture.

If you notice bald patches, itching, flaky skin, or sudden increases in shedding, it’s worth a trip to the vet. Sometimes shedding can be linked to stress, allergies, parasites, or other medical issues.

One Last Thing: Shedding Is Normal

No matter what you do, some fur is just part of life with pets. It’s how they stay comfortable, regulate body temperature, and maintain a healthy coat. With the right tools and a few good habits, though, you can keep it from overwhelming your home.

And hey, a little extra fur in your life is a small price to pay for all the love, cuddles, and tail wags your furry friend brings, right?

So stock up on brushes, vacuum with pride, and remember—you’re not alone in the fur fight. You’re part of a worldwide club of pet lovers who know that even when life gets a little hairy, it’s always worth it.