What is “express molting” and is it possible to conduct it right at home

Shedding in a pet does not necessarily take place twice a year. Some dogs and cats shed year-round, and quite abundantly. This is because different laws apply to pets. They are not affected by a sharp temperature drop outside the window and a change in the length of daylight hours. Therefore, their fur is renewed according to an “individual” schedule.

Hair loss can be one of the symptoms of stress, various diseases. It can be allergies, dermatological problems, helminthic invasion, immune diseases. If your pet has begun to lose hair, you need to make an appointment with a veterinarian in the near future and exclude health problems.

After making sure that everything is in order with the pet and the hair loss is nothing more than molting, you can think about how to reduce the amount of hair falling out. Proper care will help with this: regular bathing with professional products, combing, FURminator tool for removing dead hair. And you can also go for an express molt to the salon. What is the procedure?

Express shedding is a procedure during which the groomer removes most of the shedding hair.

In the cabin, express molting occurs according to the following algorithm.

1. Wool is carefully combed out with special tools. The master selects them depending on the type and condition of the coat of a particular pet.

2. Then the pet is given a pre-mask (it is applied to dry wool) and bathed with a special shampoo. Next, a covering mask is applied to promote the renewal of the coat.

3. Then, with a special hairdryer or compressor, the remaining wool is blown out, continuing to comb out.

It is better to accustom a pet to such a detailed procedure from childhood. Out of habit, a dog or cat can fall into a state of stress, and then no one will like a visit to the salon.

With proper preparation, “express molting” can be done right at home, for this you will need:

• original FURminator if pet with undercoat;

• slicker and comb, if the pet has a medium or long coat type;

• spray for combing;

• professional shampoo and masks suitable for your pet’s coat type;

• hair dryer or compressor.

Express molting at home follows the same pattern as in the salon. How are masks and shampoo applied? Hа example FRUIT OF THE GROOMER by IV San Bernard:

1. Dilute the required amount of the mask with warm water in a ratio of 1 to 3 or 1 to 5, depending on the type and condition of the skin and coat.

2. Apply the mask to dry combed hair with gentle massaging movements, distributing it over the growth of the hair. Leave on for 15-30 minutes, rinse with warm water. 

3. Apply ISB shampoo as directed.

4. Apply the mask in concentrated form or diluted with warm water in a ratio of 1 to 3 with gentle massaging movements on clean, damp hair. Leave for 5-15 minutes, rinse with warm water. Dry the coat with a hair dryer or towel. 

Express molting is best done in the bathroom: wool can scatter throughout the apartment and it will not be easy to collect even with the most powerful vacuum cleaner. In order for the pet to carry it comfortably, prepare for it in advance.

Show your dog or cat the tools you will be using a few days in advance. Let her sniff them and reinforce her calm demeanor with petting and treats. Then apply a combing spray on the coat, gently run through the coat of each of the combs, turn on the hair dryer. Show that there is nothing to be afraid of. 

If the pet is not afraid, reinforce the behavior with treats and affection. Repeat this lesson for several days. As soon as he begins to calmly perceive the procedure, you can proceed to a full-fledged “express molt”. 

Before the procedure, do not forget to comb the tangles – or remove them if it is impossible to comb.

During the procedure, do not forget to gently talk to your pet and praise him. Your movements should be soft and unhurried.

Express shedding is suitable for all dogs and cats except:

• hairless, 

• wirehaired, 

• those who do not have an undercoat.

Dead hair, if not combed out in time, rolls into tangles, clogs pores, causes itching and skin irritation. In a neglected state, an infection can occur under the tangles. It is better not to bring the pet to such a state. Well-groomed wool is not only about beauty, but also about health.

Feel free to ask questions of a professional groomer, consult about the choice of tools and products. You will succeed!