Can cats get dandruff? Actually, yes. Like humans, cats can also suffer from dandruff. And the condition of a cat's skin and hair can tell a vet a lot about the animal's health. If your cat has large amounts of dandruff, it may need to be looked at by a vet. Our Pico Rivera vets explain what you need to know about cat dandruff here.
What is cat dandruff?
Cat dandruff is a skin condition in which your cat's skin flakes. Dandruff can happen anywhere, like on the stomach or the cat's back near its tail. It usually appears as gray or white flakes on the cat's fur and skin. It can also cause dryness and irritation, but the majority of instances are minor. But the appearance of this illness might sometimes suggest a major health problem.
What causes dandruff in cats?
Flaky skin is more common in cats, and there's a greasy form as well. Too much oil in the skin can cause a buildup of skin cells, which then flake off. Other reasons for cats to have flaky skin include obesity or arthritis, as well as:
- The buildup of the undercoat
- Skin allergies or infections
- External parasites
- Malnutrition
- Hormonal conditions
Consult your veterinarian to rule out any potential medical causes and find the right treatment.
What are the symptoms of dandruff?
The most common symptoms of dandruff are white flakes on the cat's fur, skin, or bedding.
But if your cat has any of the following symptoms, it would be best to contact your veterinarian. These symptoms can indicate an infection or an underlying health condition.
- Hair loss
- Itching
- More frequent grooming
- Redness of the skin
- Feeling unwell
How to Treat Dandruff in Cats
It's advisable to consult your veterinarian to find the reason for your cat's dandruff and obtain the finest treatment possible. For example, if your cat has parasites, your veterinarian may advise you to use flea control medicine. To treat dry and flaky skin, your cat may be given skin vitamins as well as creams or lotions. Your veterinarian may examine your pet's food and recommend changes if necessary.
If you are allergic to your cat, dealing with cat dander or skin cells that your cat sheds might be difficult. Brushing your cat's hair regularly can assist disperse natural oils along the length of the hair. If you require medical treatment to alleviate allergy symptoms, you must see your doctor.
The majority of dandruff instances in cats are small and usually improve with therapy. If your cat is otherwise healthy, your vet may recommend home methods to treat dandruff. Cats enjoy keeping themselves clean, so minor amounts are typically not a cause for concern.
Is there cat food for dandruff?
Nutrition may play an important part in treating your cat's flaky skin. Putting overweight cats on a weight-management program for safe, efficient weight loss can aid in the restoration of normal grooming behaviors. This could include eating fewer calories, moving to healthier-weight cat food, and/or incorporating exercise into its daily routine.
A diet high in essential fats may also be beneficial. Omega-3 fatty acids can assist to reduce inflammation, while Omega-6 fatty acids can aid in the restoration of a healthy skin barrier. You should also think about integrating wet cat food into your cat's diet. Wet food may also be a good approach to increase hydration.