BR> How often/when do cats shed? How often should one brush to
 BR> help in this regard?

Short-haired cats are more-or-less left to their own devices, but
long-haired ones need brushing everyday.
Judging by my cat... she sheds only when I wear black trousers.
No harm in giving any cat a brush everyday with a soft brush...
it may really enjoy it.

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