10 min read · Pet Care
Fur vs dander
Fur is big and easy to catch – almost any filter stops it, but it clogs filters fast. Dander (tiny skin flakes) is the real allergen. Dander particles are small, light and stay airborne for hours, so you need a finer filter to catch them.
Best filter by household
| Household | Filter | Change (1" filter) |
|---|---|---|
| One short-haired pet, no allergies | MERV 8 | Every 2 months |
| One cat or dog, mild allergies | MERV 11 | Every 1–2 months |
| Multiple pets or heavy shedders | MERV 11–13 | Monthly |
| Allergic or asthmatic family member | MERV 13 + bedroom HEPA | Monthly |
| Litter box or pet odour | Carbon pleated | Every 1–2 months |
A 4" filter holds far more fur before clogging – a great upgrade for multi-pet homes.
Odour control
Particle filters don't remove smells. Activated carbon pleated filters trap odour molecules from litter boxes, wet dogs and accidents. Pair with regular litter changes and washing pet bedding weekly.
Seasonal shedding
Most dogs and cats "blow" their coats in spring and fall. During shedding season:
- Check your filter every 2–3 weeks.
- Brush pets outdoors or in a garage.
- Vacuum with a HEPA vacuum two or three times a week.
- Run the furnace fan to keep air moving through the filter.
More tips
- Keep pets out of the bedroom if anyone has allergies.
- Vacuum return-air grilles – fur builds up there first.
- Have ducts inspected if you've had pets for many years.
Love your pets, not the dander. Shop MERV 11 and carbon filters, made in Brampton, Ontario.