I learned a trick for hair and furry animals way back when
PS was around version 5 I think. Basically, I use channels to create a mask for the subjects. The idea is to look at the channels and find the one with most contrast to use for creating the mask. I work mostly in CMYK though and its possible this might be a better method for CMYK pic rather than RGB but I think I have done it in both modes. You want the channel that shows the detail in the hair or fur but also has enough contrast to seperate it from the background.
I just duplicate the channel that looks like it was best detail and contrast creating basically an alpha channel. Then, using levels or adjust contrast... I create more contrast between background and subject while trying to keep the details of the hair or fur visible on that new alpha channel. Many times, I will have to go in and touch up some areas with a brush to fill open areas or add info that was lost in the levels/contrast adjustment phase as I create the silouette shape that will basically be the subjects mask when done. Just use that alpha channel to create your mask for the subject when satisfied.
It takes a little time depending on the photo but... it has worked well over the years for myself especially with femaie hair. Hope that helps.... possibly one day soon... i will have my new website finished and will include this as one of my lessons with visual content to help further explain
