Spring Pet Grooming Tips: How to Manage Shedding Season in NZ

Spring in New Zealand means longer days, warmer walks, and—for many pet parents—a whole lot of shedding. As your furry friend’s coat changes with the season, you might notice extra fluff floating around your home, clinging to clothes, and carpeting your couch. But not to worry—we’re here to help! Whether you share your home with a sleek-coated pup or a luxuriously fluffy cat, this guide is packed with easy, expert tricks for managing seasonal shedding. Because at Petdirect, We Get Pet—and we’ve got the tools, know-how, and heartfelt advice to help you and your pet thrive.

Why Do Pets Shed More In Spring?

Most pets go through a seasonal shedding cycle, and for dogs and cats, spring is the time to say goodbye to their thicker winter coats. This natural process is triggered by increased daylight and rising temps, encouraging your pet’s body to make way for a lighter, cooler coat.

While all pets shed to some degree, some breeds—like the Golden Retriever or Ragdoll cat—seem to take it to a whole new level during spring. That’s when daily grooming can really make a difference.

Top Tools To Tackle Shedding Season

A good grooming routine starts with the right gear. Here’s what we recommend for the ultimate shedding survival kit:

• Deshedding brushes and combs – Designed for removing loose undercoat fur while being gentle on the skin.
• Cat grooming brushes – Perfect for long-haired breeds or cats that prefer a softer touch.
• Coat-refreshing shampoos – Choose nourishing formulas that remove dirt and dander gently.
• Grooming gloves – Great for pets who think brushes are scary, and they feel like a soothing massage.

Not sure where to start? Explore our grooming collection for carefully-curated choices to suit all needs and fur types.

Tips For Shedding Success

When it comes to spring grooming, a consistent routine is key. Here are some friendly tips to help you stay on top of shedding season:

• Brush daily: Especially for double-coated or long-haired pets, daily brushing helps prevent mats and reduces hair tumbleweed around the house.
• Bath occasionally: Use a pet-safe shampoo suited to your pet’s coat every few weeks to loosen dead fur and minimise allergens.
• Add supplements: Support their skin and coat health from within. Try our range of skin-supporting supplements and omega-rich oils.
• Hydration matters: Healthy skin needs moisture. Encourage your pet to drink more with our range of pet hydration solutions, like smart drinking fountains.

Busting Common Shedding Myths

Let’s clear the air (and the fur) on a few common misconceptions:

• Myth: “Short-haired pets don’t shed.”
  Truth: All pets shed—some just leave smaller hairs in sneakier places! Tools like FURminator brushes are designed to reach deeper undercoats and work well on all coat types.
• Myth: “Frequent washing will stop shedding.”
  Truth: While washing helps flush out loose fur, over-washing can dry out skin. Keep baths gentle and spaced out, and opt for nourishing formulas like those from WashBar or smith&burton.

When To Talk To Your Vet

If you notice bald patches, excessive itching, flaky skin or unexpected changes in your pet's coat, it’s best to consult your vet. Shedding is normal—but if it’s paired with other symptoms, it could indicate allergies, parasites, or a skin condition. Exploring pet-safe care options like flea treatments or health supplements might help support them on the inside too.

Shedding? Sorted!

Spring doesn't have to mean a furry frenzy. With a routine that includes brushing, coat care, nutrition and hydration, you can keep shedding under control—and keep cuddles enjoyable for both of you. Explore the full grooming essentials collection at Petdirect and set up Autodeliver so you never run out of your go-to products. And don’t forget—every purchase earns Airpoints and Pet Perks rewards for even more tail-wagging value!

Because when it comes to pet care in Aotearoa, We Get Pet.