Every spring, I tell myself I’m going to stay ahead of it.
And every spring… I don’t.
The shedding starts, the sunlight hits just right, and suddenly there’s cat hair everywhere. On the couch, on my clothes, somehow even places I didn’t think Milo or Gus had ever been. And that’s usually my reminder that it’s time to reset our grooming routine a little.
Over time, I’ve realized spring grooming isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing the right things consistently. Nothing complicated. Just a few simple habits that keep them comfortable (and keep my house from being completely taken over by fur).
The Coat: Where It All Starts
Spring is shedding season. There’s no way around it.
Milo especially seems to “blow” his coat overnight. I’ll brush him one day and think I’m on top of it, and the next day it’s like we’re back at square one. Gus sheds too, just not as dramatically—but he’s less thrilled about the brushing part, so it takes a little more patience.
What I’ve learned is that brushing more often (even just a few minutes at a time) makes a huge difference. Not only does it keep the loose hair under control, but it also cuts down on hairballs and that constant overgrooming I start to notice this time of year.
And honestly, it turns into a little bonding moment too—at least with Milo. Gus still acts like I’m personally offending him, but we’re working on it.
Nails: The One I Put Off (But Shouldn’t)
If I’m being honest, nails are the thing I procrastinate the most.
It’s easy to forget… until I hear that click-click on the floors or feel it when they jump up next to me. That’s usually my cue that I’ve waited a little too long.
Spring is actually the perfect time to get back on a regular trimming routine. They’re more active, jumping, climbing, chasing everything they see out the window—and shorter nails help prevent scratches (for both of us) and keep them moving comfortably.
I’ve learned to keep it quick and low-stress. A few nails at a time, lots of breaks, and calling it a win when we make progress.
Ears: The Quiet One We Forget
Ears are one of those things I don’t think about until I really should have.
But spring can bring more dust, allergens, and overall buildup—especially if your windows are open more or your cat is spending extra time perched by them like mine are.
Now I try to make it a habit to just take a quick look every so often. Nothing intense, just checking that everything looks clean and normal. It’s one of those small things that can make a big difference if you catch something early.
Keeping It Simple (and Realistic)
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this—your grooming routine doesn’t have to be perfect to be effective.
Some days I stay on top of it. Other days, life gets busy and I realize it’s been longer than I planned. And that’s okay.
For me, spring grooming is less about having a strict routine and more about paying attention. Noticing when Milo is shedding more than usual. Catching when Gus’s nails are getting a little too long. Taking a minute here and there to check in.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about perfection. It’s just about keeping them comfortable, healthy, and feeling their best as the seasons change.
And maybe… just maybe… keeping a little less cat hair off my black leggings.
