Spring is finally here, and that means warmer weather and more opportunities to explore the outdoors with our pets. But as much as we adore the season, it also comes with a few risks for our furry friends. 

From seasonal allergies in pets to flea and tick prevention, keeping our pets safe during this time requires a little extra attention. Here’s what the team at Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center wants you to know about spring pet care.

3 Tips for Springtime Pet Health

Watch Out for Toxic Plants

Spring gardens are beautiful, but not all the plants that decorate our yards and gardens are safe for pets. Many popular flowers and shrubs—like tulips, daffodils, lilies, and azaleas—are toxic to pets if ingested. 

If your pet loves to explore the yard (or chew on things he shouldn’t), consider planting more pet-safe plants in lieu of the dangerous ones. 

Marigolds, sunflowers, and herbs like rosemary and basil are always great picks! If you’re not sure what’s dangerous and what isn’t, check out the ASPCA’s searchable database of toxic and nontoxic plants. 

Beware of Fleas, Ticks, and Other Unpleasant Guests

With warmer weather comes an increase in fleas, mosquitos, and ticks, and trust us, you don’t want these pests hitching a ride on your pet. 

It’s not just because they’re annoying, either. Pests like these can spread all sorts of diseases, including Lyme disease, heartworm, and tapeworm.

Because of this, flea and tick prevention is an absolute must in your springtime pet health routine. If it’s been a while since you last had a flea collar or heartworm medication for your pet, call your vet as soon as possible. 

Your furry friend may need testing and treatment before she can go on another preventive medication. 

Seasonal Allergies in Pets—Yes, They’re a Thing!

Is your dog or cat itching more than usual? Do they spend a considerable amount of time sneezing or licking their paws? 

If so, they might have seasonal allergies.

Just like us, pets can be sensitive to pollen, mold, and grass—all of which run rampant in the springtime. Regularly bathe your pet, especially after any outdoor adventures that involve bounding through fields of blooming grasses and flowers. You can also discuss allergy treatment with your veterinarian to help your pet feel less miserable. 

Springtime Safety Means Springtime Fun

With these spring tips for healthy pets, you can feel confident that:

• Your yard is free of toxic plants
• Your pet is guarded against harmful parasites
• You’re in tune with your pet’s seasonal discomforts

And all of these points make for an excellent and safe spring with your furry family members. If your pet needs preventives for heartworm, fleas, and ticks,  a seasonal allergy checkup, or more tips for outdoor safety for pets, the caring team at Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center can help. Call us at (530) 673-4744 to schedule an appointment!

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As temperatures drop, it’s easy to assume our furry friends will be all right in the cold. They wear furry coats all year long, after all. What more could they need? But pups and kitties get cold, just like we humans do. Whether you live in central California (like we do!) or up north in Alaska—or somewhere in between—winter pet safety is important. 

And when it comes to winter weather, hypothermia is a big threat. In this blog post, the team at Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center will offer tips for preventing pet hypothermia. 

Cold Weather Risks for Pets: A Spotlight on Hypothermia

Hypothermia happens when a pet’s body temperature drops way below its normal range. This occurs after a pet is exposed to cold temperatures for too long, but other factors come into play, too. Cold, rainy weather can also drive hypothermia. If your pet spends time outside in the rain, she could lose her body heat more quickly than she would in dry weather.

Enter hypothermia.

Plus, if a cat or dog has a thin coat, is young or old, or has an underlying health issue that makes it hard to regulate body temperature, they’re at a higher risk.

And then there’s wind, humidity levels, and other potential contributing factors to watch out for.

So what happens if your pet gets hypothermia and his or her body heat drops too low? 

Nothing good. When your pet’s body can’t maintain its heat, vital organs begin slowing down. If not treated right away, this can make your pet incredibly sick, and it can even be deadly.

As much as possible, keep your pet warm and dry throughout the winter. If you go outside to play in the snow or rain, don’t stay out too long—and dry your pet off thoroughly when you come inside. Make sure your pet has a safe, warm place indoors to sleep and spend her days. 

And finally, know the early signs of hypothermia in pets so you can prevent this dangerous condition. 

Signs of Hypothermia in Pets

Knowing the signs of hypothermia in pets can make a life-saving difference. Here are some common symptoms to watch for when you’re out enjoying the winter weather:

• Shivering: This is usually the first sign that your pet is too cold.
• Weakness or lethargy: Your pet may seem unusually tired or lacking in her usual boundless energy.
• Slowed breathing and heart rate: Hypothermia slows your pet’s breathing and heartbeat, which can be dangerous. Watch for strange breathing patterns when you’re out and about in the cold.
• Decreased alertness: Your pet may seem confused, disoriented, or unresponsive.
• Pale or blue gums and skin: Low body temperature can lead to poor circulation, which leads your pet’s gums and skin to lose their usual hearty color. 

The best line of defense against hypothermia is to bring your pet inside and wrap her in warm blankets the minute you see her shivering. 

If you notice weakness, lethargy, slowed breathing, or any of the other signs of hypothermia, call your veterinarian as soon as possible. 

The caring veterinary team at Adobe Animal Hospital and Laser Surgery is here to help guide your pet through any wintry woes. Call us today at 530-673-4744 if you’re concerned about your pet’s reaction to our chillier winter weather! 

The post Understanding and Preventing Hypothermia in Pets During Winter appeared first on Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center.

Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center hopes that you and your pets are able to ring in 2025 right—safe and healthy! As you prepare to welcome the new year, please consider New Year’s pet safety pointers to help everyone celebrate at their best:

New Year’s Pet Safety

There are plenty of New Year’s pet hazards that can make things less-than-safe for dogs and cats. When preparing to celebrate, take the time to think about what things might pose a danger to your pet. 

When it comes to New Year’s pet safety, be wary of:

• Feeding potentially toxic foods, especially at chaotic celebrations 
• Hazardous decor—like candles, wax warmers, and liquid potpourri 
• Decorations, like confetti, that could pose a choking hazard
• Stressful situations with a lot of noise and/or strange people
• Don’t force your pet to be a party animal; all pets need a safe, quiet place to relax during gatherings
• Scary fireworks that can be loud and lead to stress and anxiety
• Unsecured trash items
• Hazardous items in the personal belongings of houseguests
• Open doors that could pose an escape hazard

New Year’s Eve Pet Tips

To keep pets safe during New Year’s celebrations, it’s important to have a plan. Our practice recommends being prepared by:

• Creating a secure environment — Noise and commotion can be very stressful for many pets. Create a calming corner by providing a familiar, comfortable crate or bed in a dimly-lit area. Use white noise and pheromones to create a soothing space to help in keeping pets calm during celebrations.
• Asking about medications — If you think fireworks and jubilation are going to be too much for your four-legged family member, contact us to discuss options for mild anti-anxiety options.  
• Updating identification — Scared animals and people coming and going can create a perfect environment for a pet to slip out of a door. Be sure that your pet’s identification tag and/or microchip have up-to-date information. 
• Looking at things like a pet — Take some time to look at things from a pet’s point of view. That unattended dish of chocolates? A purse on the ground full of sugar-free gum and prescription medications? Be sure to make some adjustments to keep your pet safe.

With some planning and attention to detail, both the pets and people in your life can celebrate safely. We are wishing you a Happy New Year from our family to yours!

The post Preparing Your Pet for a New Year’s Celebration: Safety Tips and Stress Management appeared first on Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center.

We Northern Californians get our fair share of cold weather, and for pets in Yuba City and the surrounding areas, winter pet care is an important topic. Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center has some great tips for pet winter wellness. We hope that by sharing our best advice, your animals will stay safe and cozy during this chilly part of the year.

Cold Weather Pet Safety Tips

With the changing seasons, there are some special considerations to help keep pets safe. Some hazards unique to the cold weather include:

• De-icing products — The salts in products like ice melt can cause contact irritation for pets, as well as gastrointestinal upset if ingested. More serious consequences like seizure or death are possible with high exposure. Use pet-safe versions when possible, and if exposure occurs, be sure to thoroughly rinse the product from your pets paws and fur. 
• Antifreeze — Ethylene glycol is extremely toxic when ingested, even in small quantities. It is also very sweet, which makes it even more dangerous due to its palatability. Ingestion can lead to life-threatening kidney failure. Clean up leaks and spills promptly, and use pet-safe versions when possible.
• Rodenticides — When the weather cools, rodents of all kinds make their ways indoors. It is only natural to want to keep your home pest-free, but many rodenticides rely on being tasty and poisonous, and they don’t discriminate between a mouse and your dog or cat. Choose pet-safe options.
• Warming elements — Space heaters and the like make cozy places for pets to lie, but they also can lead to burns. Also remember to check for stray pets warming up under the hood of your car in cooler weather. 
• Exposure — Pets can suffer from hypothermia and frostbite just like humans. Be sure to protect them from the elements. 

Keeping Pets Warm in Winter

Pets spending time in cooler temperatures may need a little extra help staying warm. While animals accustomed to cold weather can generally handle chilly conditions, pets not used to being outdoors may require some additional precautions.

Letting your dog out briefly to potty is usually fine, but if your pet will be taking longer walks or spending extended time outdoors, it might be a good idea to invest in some winter gear—perhaps even as part of your holiday gift-giving!

Paws tend to be the first thing to get cold. There are various pet boots available that can help keep those toes toasty. Just remember to remove them when indoors to avoid irritation.

A well-fitted sweater or coat can also help keep your pet warm in winter weather, especially if they don’t have a thick coat. Be sure to check for any signs of rubbing, and ensure the garment fits snugly to prevent your pet from getting entangled.

Your Team for Winter Pet Care

Your pet’s veterinary wellness care doesn’t stop in the colder months, either. Our professional team is here to help your pet winter wellness efforts. 

Don’t forget to continue administering heartworm and other parasite preventives. We are happy to help recommend the best product for your pet’s individual needs. Likewise, preventive vaccinations remain important (and maybe even more vital as pets board and travel through the holiday season).

You will also want to be sure that your pet has had a recent wellness checkup. Old, young, immunocompromised, or pets with systemic illnesses may be at increased risk for things like hypothermia. Our veterinary team can help make recommendations to keep your pet safer. Let us know if you need to make an appointment to bring your pet in. 

Exercise remains important, but with shorter daylight hours  be sure to always keep your pets on a leash to avoid accidents. If you walk or jog with your pets after dark, invest in reflective gear such as a collar or vest to ensure you and your pet are visible.

Even in Northern California, winter precautions are essential for keeping your pets safe and healthy. Winter pet care is important, and Adobe Animal Hospital is happy to help however we can. 

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Halloween can be a fun-filled time for people, but it can be downright spooky for pets! Costumes, loud noises, and colorful decorations can trigger pet anxiety on Halloween and pose Halloween hazards for pets.

Our team at Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center wants all of your furry little goblins to have a fright-free Halloween this year, so we’ve put together some of our favorite Halloween pet safety tips and tricks to keep your dogs and cats calm and safe.

Calming Pets During Halloween 

Taming pet anxiety on Halloween doesn’t have to be tricky. Simple precautions can  make the night less stressful for your pet: 

• Distribute candy in your driveway or front yard to keep the constant doorbell ringing from startling your pet,. 
• If you’re hosting a Halloween gathering, keep your pet in a quiet room with a bed, food, water, and a litter box (for cats). 
• A new puzzle toy (or interactive toy) is helpful for calming pets during Halloween.
• Leave your pet safe at home when trick or treating.
• Take off your mask (and ask guests to do the same) before interacting with your dog or cat.
• Even a calm pet can be startled by strange costumes and sounds and bolt through an open door. Make sure your pet’s ID tag is current, and have your pet microchipped if you haven’t already.  

Pet-Friendly Halloween Treats
Sweet treats like candy corn, chocolate bars, and raisins are strictly off-limits for cats and dogs, but your pets can join in the fun with these pet-friendly Halloween treats:

• Many pet food companies offer special edition Halloween treats in fun flavors and shapes.
• Search online for DIY treat recipes made with pumpkin, apple, and peanut butter.
• Dogs will enjoy apple chunks, which provide vitamins A and C as well as dietary fiber.
• When making your own treats, avoid using any sugar-free ingredients that could contain the sugar substitute xylitol, which is toxic to pets.

Safe Halloween Decorations for Pets

Lit candles are perfect for eerie atmospheres but present one of the most serious Halloween hazards for pets. Curious pets can be attracted to the flame or scent and burn themselves or topple the candle over and start a fire. Choose battery-powered décor when possible. If you must use electric-powered lights, keep cords tucked away and light strands where your pet can’t reach them. Remember that some fall plants like chrysanthemums (mums) are toxic to pets. 

Halloween Costume Ideas for Pets
If dressing pets for Halloween is in the plans, select a costume that doesn’t inhibit your pet’s ability to move, see, or breathe. Play dress-up before the big night to make sure your pet is comfortable. Consider simple accessories instead, such as a Halloween-themed bandana or cape. Avoid costumes with small pieces that your pet could ingest. 

Halloween Pet Safety Matters

A Halloween with more fun than frights is possible with a little pre planning to protect your pet. If you’d like more Halloween pet safety tips, please contact our team at (530) 673-4744.

The post Preparing Your Pet for Halloween: Tips and Tricks appeared first on Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center.

Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it’s also important to remember that hot weather can pose a significant health risk to our furry companions. At Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center, we want to help you ensure your pet has a safe and happy summer. 

In this blog post, our animal hospital experts will share advice for pet owners on essential summer safety guidelines, pet hydration tips during outdoor adventures, and heatstroke prevention in pets.

Keeping Your Pet Cool and Hydrated

Heatstroke is a serious threat to pets during hot summer months. Here are some tips to prevent heatstroke in pets and keep them hydrated:

• Provide ample fresh, clean water at all times. Refresh their water bowl throughout the day, especially after exercise or playtime. You can also add ice cubes to their water to keep it cooler for longer.
• Limit walks and playtime to cooler hours of the day. Early mornings and evenings are the best times for outdoor activities.
• Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car, even for a short period. The temperature inside a vehicle can rise rapidly, even on a mild day, putting your pet at risk of heatstroke.
• Create cool spaces for your pet to relax indoors. This could be a shaded area in your house or a basement. Consider using a cooling mat or fan to help your pet stay comfortable.

Safe Summer Activities for Dogs

Summer is a great time to bond with your dog over outdoor activities. Here are some tips for keeping your dog safe during summer outings:

• Choose dog-friendly activities. Swimming, hiking on shaded trails, and playing fetch in a cool park are great options.
• Avoid hot asphalt. The pavement can get scorching on hot days and burn your dog’s paws. Opt for grassy areas or invest in dog booties for walks during peak sun hours to protect your pet’s paws from hot surfaces.
• Bring fresh water and a portable bowl on all outings. Take frequent breaks to allow your dog to drink and cool down for optimal pet hydration during summer.

Recognizing the Signs of Heat Exhaustion in Pets

Knowing the signs of heatstroke can help you identify a potential emergency quickly. Here are some things to watch for as part of your emergency pet care in summer:

• Excessive panting or drooling
• Lethargy or weakness
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Stumbling or incoordination
• Seizures

If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, seek immediate veterinary care.

Additional Summer Pet Safety Tips

Here are some additional tips to protect your pets from summer hazards:

• Apply sunscreen to pets with light fur or hairless skin. Talk to your veterinarian about a pet-safe sunscreen for areas like the ears, nose, and around the lips to prevent sunburn.
• Beware of harmful summer pests. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitos can become more prevalent in summer. Talk to your veterinarian about year-round pet parasite prevention.
• Keep your pet’s identification tags up-to-date. If your pet gets lost during an outing, an ID tag is the best way to ensure they are returned to you safely during this time of increased risk.

Schedule an Appointment with Adobe Animal Hospital Today!

At Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center, our staff is committed to pet health during summer and well-being throughout the year.  If you have any questions about protecting your pets from summer hazards or would like to schedule a wellness exam for your pet, contact us today!  Call us or conveniently schedule an appointment online. 

The post Ultimate Guide to Summer Pet Care: Tips from Our Animal Hospital Experts appeared first on Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center.

Vacation season is in full swing, and if you’re planning a trip that includes your pet, we’ve got you covered with essential pet travel tips from our team at Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center. 

The First Stop on Your Journey: A Vet Visit

Has it been a while since your pet’s last checkup? If so, contact us for a wellness and preventive care visit. Whether you’re flying with pets, taking a road trip with pets, or staying in a hotel with pets, it’s important to make sure your pet is properly vaccinated. Depending on your destination, we might recommend additional vaccines. We’ll also make sure your pet is healthy enough for travel and protected against fleas, ticks, or other parasites your pet could encounter in a new environment.

Road Trip with Pets

If you’re planning a summer road trip with pets, it’s important to keep in mind that while some pets love nothing more than cruising down the highway, others experience travel anxiety in pets. Here are some pet travel safety tips for taking a road trip with pets: 

• If your pet has never traveled far by car, regularly introduce your pet to the car and take frequent short trips before your vacation. Reward your pet with treats for staying calm. 
• For the safety of you and your pet while traveling, keep your pet properly restrained using a pet carrier anchored to your back seat or a seat belt restraint/tether made just for pets. 
• Map out plenty of pit stops so your pet can take frequent potty and exercise breaks.
• NEVER, ever leave your pet alone in a parked car. 
• Have your pet microchipped if you haven’t already. 

Flying With Pets 

If you are planning to fly the friendly skies with your pet, a critical first step is to contact the airline directly for details about their pet policy. Rules and restrictions vary from airline to airline—and also by destination. Here are important tips for flying with pets:

• If at all possible, you want your pet in the cabin with you. 
• Book direct flights if you can.
• Check the airline’s vaccination and documentation policies. Contact us as soon as possible if we can help. 
• Ensure that your pet’s carrier meets the airline’s requirements.
• Air travel is dangerous for breeds with short nasal passages, such as bulldogs, pugs, and Persian cats. Your Adobe Animal Hospital veterinarian can help you understand potential pet travel safety risks.

Additional Pet Travel Safety Tips

• Pack medications, proof of vaccines, and safe drinking water in addition to your pet’s food. 
• Scout out the location of nearby veterinary hospitals ahead of time in case your pet gets sick or injured while on vacation. 
• Pack plenty of extra potty pads and cleaning wipes.

The team at Adobe Animal Hospital wants you and your pets to enjoy the summer travel season! Contact us at (530) 673-4744  for more pet travel tips.  

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Spring cleaning season has arrived, and if you’re a pet parent, it’s the perfect time to freshen up the spaces where your pets sleep, eat, and play. A clean environment is a healthier environment, so when you add pet cleaning to your spring cleaning tasks, you contribute to the continued health of your animal friends.

Read on for pet cleaning tips from our team at Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center.

Choose Pet-Safe Products for Your Cleaning Spree

When spring cleaning with dogs or spring cleaning with cats, it’s important to avoid ingredients that can be toxic, or those that can irritate sensitive paws and noses. 

Choose products labeled “pet-safe,” and avoid using cleaners with the following ingredients when cleaning with dogs or cleaning with cats:

•  Ammonia 

•  Chlorine 

•  Essential oils

•  Formaldehyde 

•  Isopropyl alcohol 

•  Phenols

•  Phthalates

•  Bleach (using a properly diluted bleach solution to disinfect is generally safe as long as the item is thoroughly rinsed and aired out)

Start With a Deep Clean of the Home

Break out the vacuum, dust rags, and mops to remove a winter’s worth of pet hair and allergens from the surfaces in your home. The best vacuums for spring cleaning with dogs or spring cleaning with cats have HEPA filters for removing airborne particles, including pollen, mold, and bacteria.

Another option for deep cleaning carpeted areas is to rent a professional-grade carpet cleaner or use a professional cleaning service (be sure they’re using pet-safe products). Also, take this time to launder or deep clean area rugs, scatter rugs, and doormats.

Pay Close Attention to These Pet Spaces

Once you’ve given the house an overall cleaning, it’s time to turn your attention to all the places where your pet sleeps, plays, and eats. Try these pet cleaning tips:

• Launder all pet beds and blankets, and replace those that are too worn to survive the spin cycle.

• Give the litter box a deep clean with hot soapy water (or a properly diluted bleach solution) and let it dry thoroughly before adding new litter. Don’t forget to clean the scooper, litter mat, and other accessories.

• Launder nylon pet collars, and double check that your pet’s ID tag info and microchip details are up to date.

• Run your pet’s playthings and bowls through the dishwasher, and replace toys that are broken or torn. 

• It’s not always fun to scoop the poop in the winter chill, so clean up any remaining “business” in the backyard when the weather warms.

• Examine your pet’s meds and check expiration dates. But don’t flush or toss! Contact us for safe disposal information.

Make Pet Cleaning Part of Your Pet Wellness Plan

Our pets deserve safe, clean surroundings for their continued health. In addition to routine dog wellness and cat wellness visits with your veterinarian, add spring cleaning to your overall pet wellness plan. Please contact us at (530) 673-4744 if it’s time for a dog wellness or cat wellness appointment.

The post Steps to Start Spring Cleaning for Your Furry Friends appeared first on Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center.

While Valentine’s Day is a holiday dedicated to love and connection, it can pose a serious risk for our furry friends. From chocolate to flowers, there are potential pet hazards at every turn. Have no fear, however, with our pet safety tips, you can achieve peace of mind while celebrating loved ones.

Bringing Pet Safety Into Focus

If a pet poisoning occurs on or around Valentine’s Day, it is critical not to wait for symptoms to improve. Know the signs of poisoning and seek emergency help immediately. 

Valentine’s Day-themed chocolates are a big threat to pet safety. If your eager pet finds his way into a box of heart-shaped chocolates, it could lead to serious health issues. If your pet has ingested a toxic amount of chocolate, the following symptoms can develop between 6-12 hours after consumption:

• Racing heart beat
• Tremors
• Seizures
• Excessive thirst
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• High blood pressure

Our pets cannot metabolize chocolate’s key chemical compounds: caffeine and theobromine. When absorbed by the bloodstream, caffeine and theobromine have dire side effects and can even cause death. The severity of a chocolate poisoning depends on the amount consumed, and the type of chocolate (dark chocolate is more toxic). If you think your pet has eaten chocolate, you should call your veterinarian immediately.

Flowers and More

Have you noticed that store-bought flower arrangements or bouquets usually contain at least one lily? Valentine’s Day pet safety depends on removing lilies from any arrangement before you bring them home or display them. 

Valentine’s Day signature bloom, roses, aren’t quite as toxic as lilies, but they shouldn’t necessarily be viewed as safe, either. A pet may leave a large bouquet of roses alone, but if they do eat the petals or stems, expect a little GI upset. Thorns can also cause injury to pets. 

Lastly, be sure that a pet cannot access cut flowers. Pesticides and other chemicals may be on the flower blossom, stem, or can leach into the water. 

Other Considerations

Just because you have pets doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some Valentine’s traditions, though. What all pet owners can do is safeguard their pet’s health by limiting their exposure to known toxins, like chocolate and flowers. 

Additionally, be on the lookout for any symptoms of a foreign body obstruction. Pets can inadvertently eat gift wrap, ribbon, foil wrappers, and tape. Please act quickly if you notice:

• Vomiting or nausea
• Appetite loss
• Depression
• Lethargy 

If you have any questions or concerns about Valentine’s Day pet safety, please give us a call at  (530) 673-4744. Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center is always happy to help!

The post Valentine’s Day Pet Safety: Toxic Foods, Flowers, and Choking Hazards appeared first on Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center.

With cooler weather on the horizon, logic says our fur babies should be gaining floof—not depositing it all over the house. But if you’ve noticed the fur starts flying when the leaves start falling, there’s a perfectly good explanation! 

Our team at Adobe Animal Hospital and Laser Surgery Center is here to help you get to the bottom of this hair-raising mystery as well as provide you with ways to contain your furry family member’s shedding coat.

Why a Fall Shed?

The truth is, our pets are always shedding fur to some degree, but they typically experience two major seasons of shedding: in the spring (which makes purrfect sense) and again in the fall, which might sound counterintuitive.

Interestingly enough, your pet’s coat may be reacting to the amount of daylight in their environment. When the days get longer (in the spring and summer) or shorter (in the fall and winter), it alters hormone levels that impact fur growth. 

When the sun starts to set earlier in the fall, it triggers a reaction in your cat’s or dog’s hair growth cycle. The old fur will be shed to make room for a new, thicker undercoat for the cooler months.

Indoor-only cats and small dogs that spend most of their time inside may experience a steadier, year-round shed.

Tips for Coping with Your Pet’s Changing Coat

In addition to diligent vacuuming of the floors and furniture, plus persistent use of sticky lint rollers, there are practical ways to reduce the amount of flying fur in your home:

1. Get serious about grooming. You may very well brush or comb your pet’s fur on a regular basis, but during a seasonal shed, many pets need to be groomed daily. Grab a deshedding tool, like the Furminator or ShedMonster, and prepare to be awestruck by the amount of fur and undercoat you collect!
2. Frequent bathing can help loosen and remove fur, and you can save yourself the mess by pampering your pet with trips to a professional groomer. Some groomers also offer deshedding treatments that may be particularly helpful for long-haired or double-coated breeds.
3. Focus on nutrition. Make sure your pet is eating a high-quality diet and that a protein source is listed as the first ingredient. Nutritional supplements like fish oil and Omega-3s may also help keep your pet’s coat and skin healthier.

Schedule a Vet Check

Excess hair loss isn’t always a seasonal phenomenon. Some medical conditions can prompt your pet’s loss of fur, such as allergies, mites, ringworm, skin infections, fleas, and Cushing’s disease. Be on the lookout for symptoms that could point to a medical problem:

• Red, irritated skin in the area of the hair loss
• Patches of bare skin showing through
• Flaky or crusty skin
• Unusual lumps or bumps

We’re Here to Help

Our compassionate team is always happy to demonstrate proper grooming techniques and answer questions you have about maintaining your pet’s crowning glory. Please contact us to schedule your pet’s next visit. 

The post The Fall Shed: Managing Your Pet’s Seasonal Hair Loss appeared first on Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center.