Understanding cat fur

Cats are usually of the long-hair or short-hair variety. Short-hair cats appear more popular because the gene for short hair is dominant over that for long hair. Also it is an evolutionary tool – short hair in the wild is easier to maintain than long hair.

A cat’s coat is usually made up of three layers of fur. The top layer of long hair are the guard hairs, the middle layer are the awn hairs and closest to the skin the soft down hairs. However, not all cats have three layers of fur.

The fur isn’t just for keeping a cat warm, though this is a primary function. A cat will use their fur to signal a mood or perhaps as a defensive measure. To look intimidating they will cause their tail and back fur to stand erect. This gives the cat more bulk and makes them look more powerful.

Cats tend to seasonally shed. Some cats more than others and also some more noticeable than others. A long haired cats shedding may be more noticeable than a short hair simply because of the size of the hair. Also, light-coloured hair will show up on clothes and furniture more prominently than dark hair. Regular grooming of your cat can help reduce the amount of fur shed over the house.