The health of your cat’s coat goes beyond appearance. It can be affected by allergies, or underlying conditions with the skin caused by diet or environmental factors. Here are some signs to look for and the steps you can take to improve the skin and coat health of your pet.
The Signs
Coat and fur
- Dullness: The fur lacks shine and luster, appearing unhealthy.
- Greasy or dry: The coat may feel greasy to the touch, or conversely, be dry, brittle, and lack softness.
- Excessive shedding: You may notice more hair than usual, or large clumps coming out.
- Matting or clumps: The fur tangles easily and forms mats, especially in long-haired cats.
- Thinning or hair loss: There may be bald patches or a general thinning of the fur.
Skin condition
- Flakes or dandruff: You may see dry, flaky scales on the skin or fur.
- Redness or inflammation: The skin may appear red, inflamed, or swollen.
- Bumps, scabs, or sores: Small raised bumps, scabs, or open sores on the skin are a clear sign of irritation.
- Odor: A foul, sour, or musky odor coming from the skin can indicate an infection.
- Thickened skin: In some cases, the skin may become thickened or take on a dark brown color.
Behavioral changes
- Excessive scratching or licking: The cat may scratch, lick, or chew at its fur and skin more than usual, especially at specific areas like the head or neck.
- Irritability: The cat may seem more irritable or uncomfortable.
- Over-grooming: The cat might excessively groom itself, leading to hair loss or skin irritation.
Steps to Take
Diet and nutrition
- Feed a high-quality diet: Choose cat food with real meat as the first ingredient to ensure a good source of protein.
- Ensure essential fatty acids: A balanced diet should include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and a shiny coat. Nusentia offers Celavin Norwegian Salmon Oil - high Omega-3 Formula
- Hydrate: Provide constant access to fresh, clean water, as dehydration can lead to dry skin and brittle fur.
- Consider supplements: Discuss adding supplements like fish oil with your vet, especially if your cat's diet is lacking in essential fatty acids.
- Limit allergens: Watch for food sensitivities to common allergens like dairy or grains and consult your vet about a hypoallergenic diet if needed.
Grooming and hygiene
- Brush regularly: Daily or frequent brushing removes dead hair, distributes natural oils throughout the coat, and stimulates the skin. The frequency may need to increase for long-haired cats.
- Use the right tools: Use a brush suitable for your cat's coat type and follow up with a metal comb to detangle and remove mats.
- Bathe properly: If bathing is necessary, use a gentle, cat-specific shampoo. Avoid human shampoos, which can strip natural oils from your cat's skin.
Environmental and health factors
- Control fleas and ticks: Keep your cat on a consistent flea and tick prevention plan, as recommended by your vet.
- Reduce stress: Minimize stressors in your cat's environment, as stress can negatively impact their health and coat.
- Maintain a clean environment: Keep your cat's living space clean to prevent skin irritation and infections.
- Consult your vet: See a veterinarian for any persistent or severe skin issues to rule out underlying health problems.
Hopefully you find these steps helpful, and if needed, they will work to resolve any issues your pet has. Here’s to healthy skin, beautiful coat and to a happy cat!