Why Is My Cat Shedding So Much All of a Sudden?

Cat grooming. — Is your cat's skin irritated too? That might mean something more than seasonal shedding. larisa Stefanjuk / Shutterstock

If your home is suddenly blanketed in cat hair, you might be asking, why is my cat shedding so much? Shedding is a normal process for most cats, but sometimes excessive shedding can signal a deeper issue.

Understanding your cat's coat, grooming habits, and environment can help you determine if the hair loss is expected or a reason to visit the vet.

Normal Shedding vs. Excessive Hair Loss

Combing the fur of a Scottish tabby cat — Shedding is a natural process for indoor and outdoor cats alike. berdiyandriy / Shutterstock

Cats shed to remove dead hair and allow new, healthy hair to grow. This keeps the cat's coat in good condition and helps distribute natural oils for healthy skin. For most cats, this shedding is relatively constant, but it increases during seasonal transitions.

Seasonal shedding usually occurs in spring and fall. Both outdoor cats and indoor cats with exposure to natural light will often lose more hair during these periods as they switch between a heavier winter coat and a lighter summer coat.

However, indoor cats tend to experience more constant shedding because artificial lighting and temperature control confuse their natural shedding cycle.

Factors That Can Cause Increased Shedding

Some cat breeds naturally shed more than others. Long-haired breeds like Maine Coons or Persians tend to lose more fur than short haired cats.

Other reasons for excessive cat shedding include:

Poor diet or nutritional deficiencies
Excessive grooming due to stress or behavioral disorders
Skin irritation from allergies or fungal infections
Hormonal imbalances, such as hyperthyroidism or rare adrenal disorders like Cushing’s disease

Cats that are shedding a lot may also show signs like bald patches, irritated skin, or matted fur. If you notice these, contact a vet to rule out underlying health problems.

Keeping Your Cat’s Coat Healthy

Young woman combing a ginger cat — Regular brushing and combing can help you keep the cat fur situation under control. AYO Production / Shutterstock

Maintaining a healthy coat starts with a high-quality diet. A balanced diet supports skin health and reduces shedding over time. Make sure your cat is getting the right nutrients for their age, size, and activity level.

Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and reduce hairballs. For long-haired cat breeds, daily brushing may be necessary. Even short-haired breeds benefit from weekly grooming.

Lint rollers and vacuuming are your best friends as a pet parent, but preventative care makes the biggest difference in managing cat hair.

When To Call the Vet

If your cat is shedding so much that you see damaged hair, bald spots, or changes in the cat’s behavior, it’s time to talk to a veterinarian. Excessive licking, sudden hair loss, or irritated skin could indicate something more serious than seasonal shedding.

A vet can assess your pet's health and suggest a treatment plan to manage the shedding. Whether it’s a change in diet, medication, or managing stress, early action helps protect your cat’s coat and comfort.

For most cat owners, shedding is just part of life with a feline friend. But with the right care and attention, you can keep your cat's coat healthy—and your furniture a little less furry.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.