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The shedding season in cats

Written by Mara | November 18, 2025

The coat of your cat is more than just a pretty layer. It provides protection against cold, heat and external influences. During the shedding season, also known as coat change, your cat loses a lot of hair to make room for a new coat. This is a natural process, but it can sometimes cause discomfort for both you and your cat. In this blog, we explain when shedding occurs, how long it lasts, what you can do about it and how you can support your cat with nutrition, supplements and care.

When do cats shed?

Cats usually shed twice a year, in spring and autumn. The spring shedding period is often more intense. The thick winter coat makes way for a lighter summer coat. Shedding typically begins when the days get longer, from March or April onwards. The autumn shedding period often starts in September or October, when the new warmer coat develops. Indoor cats, however, can shed hair all year round, because they are less exposed to natural light changes.

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What can you notice in your cat during shedding?

During the shedding season, you may notice the following in your cat:

A lot of loose hair in the house or on clothing
Cats licking and grooming more than usual
Sometimes mild itching or irritated skin
Hairballs (see below)
A dull or messy-looking coat

Keep in mind that cats may groom more for other reasons too. That is why you can also read our blog: Why does my cat have bald patches?

How long does shedding last in cats?

The duration of the shedding season varies per cat, but on average the coat change lasts between 4 and 8 weeks. This depends on the cat, the breed, the environment and overall health. With shorthaired cats, the process tends to be quicker than with longhaired breeds. In older cats or cats that groom themselves less effectively, the shedding period may last longer or cause more coat issues. Indoor cats may shed mildly throughout the whole year due to artificial light and constant temperatures, instead of having two clear shedding periods like outdoor cats.

Brushing helps (and prevents hairballs)

During the shedding season, brushing is essential. Regular brushing helps remove loose hairs, prevents tangles and reduces the amount of hair your cat swallows during grooming. This is important, because too much hair in the stomach can lead to hairballs. Want to know more about hairballs and how to prevent them? Read our blog: Hairballs in cats

Some tips:

Brush shorthaired cats 1 to 2 times a week
Brush longhaired cats daily
Use a soft brush or comb designed for cats, such as the Mikki Bamboo Soft Pin Slicker
Combine brushing with supplements or anti-hairball pastes when there is a lot of hair loss

Supplements to support skin and coat

A healthy skin is the foundation of a shiny and well-maintained coat. Supplements can help support shedding and reduce skin and coat problems. Think of products containing biotin, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids and essential amino acids. Products you can use include:

Dermazyme Zinc: rich in zinc and vitamin B6 to support skin regeneration.
Leamix30: contains lecithin, amino acids, zinc and biotin for a healthy coat.
Dechra Redonyl Ultra: unique supplement with PEA, biotin and zinc.
Excellent Pets Biozin: contains biotin and zinc to help reduce hair loss.

Nutrition that supports skin and coat

Alongside supplements, nutrition also plays a crucial role in the health of your cat’s skin and coat. Choose food that is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, biotin and zinc, especially if your cat suffers from a dull coat or excessive hair loss. Suitable foods include:

Vetality Skin Support cat food: complete diet food for skin problems.
Prins VitalCare Skin Support: dry food with salmon oil, biotin and zinc.
Specific Skin Function Support FOD: rich in omega-3 from fish oil.
Royal Canin Skin & Coat: supports skin regeneration and coat condition.

Do you have any questions about shedding in cats? Then contact us at veterinarian@vetsend.co.uk.

Also read our other blogs

Coat care during the winter

The cold months are just around the corner! While we bundle up in warm jumpers and turn up the heating a notch, our pets develop a natural 'winter coat'. But how can you ensure that this coat stays healthy and comfortable despite the rain, cold, and muddy walks? In this blog, we’ll share useful tips for caring for your dog or cat’s coat, helping them stay warm and happy through the chilly months.

Coat care in summer

Summer is nearly here. The days are getting longer, sunnier and warmer... It's time for shorts and t-shirts! Unfortunately our pets cannot shed their coats. To help them get through the summer as comfortably as possible, spend a little more time and attention on coat care for your dog. Cowboy Magic shampoos and conditioners will make your dog shine as never seen before!

Nutrition and coat care for dogs and cats with an allergy

Allergic diseases in dogs and cats often manifest themselves in skin problems, such as itching, red skin or ear infections. When your pet has an allergy, the body produces antibodies to certain substances that are not harmful. These may be substances in the environment, such as pollen from grass or trees, weeds or mites. An allergy to substances in the environment is called ‘atopy’. In addition, animals can also develop an immune response against substances in food. This is usually a reaction against certain proteins in the food, but in some cases, other components in the food might be the issue. In this article, you will read more about the importance of skincare and nutrition for animals that have skin problems due to an allergy.

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About the author

Mara van Brussel-Broere, Veterinarian at Vetsend

Graduated as a companion animal veterinarian from Utrecht University, she uses her practical experience to advise customers and share knowledge at Vetsend. She finds it important to provide pet owners with clear information about health and wellbeing.