We have two cats that shed incessantly, and this vacuum is AMAZING. We have hardwood floors, tile and area rugs and it cleans all of them brilliantly. I enjoy using it so much and it leaves the house SO clean, I find myself vacuuming quite regularly (even though it's not really necessary) and really enjoying it. Yep, I am not joking. The cord is really long so you don't have to keep unplugging it, and the gadget designed for pet hair is amazing. It is a bit clunky to move around, but we don't have stairs so it's not a problem. I also find emptying it is totally fine. Hands down, the best vacuum I have ever had.