Have you noticed dry, flaking skin on your cat?
Dry skin in cats is a sign that something is not going right. It can be a great source of irritation for your beloved pet, adding stress to their daily lives.
If your cat is suffering from dry skin, first you need to identify the cause. There are many possible causes, so you’ll have to consider them carefully. Then, depending on the cause, you can treat them at home or seek medical help for your cat.
Read on to help your cat suffering from dry skin.
Causes of Dry Skin in Cats
- Malnutrition
- Disease
- Infection
- Allergies
- Environment
- Age
At-Home Remedies
Proper Nutrition
Your cat might not be getting all the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients they need in their diet.
If you’re feeding your cat store-bought food, do some research online to determine what’s in your cat’s food. Lower end products tend to be filled with the by-products of animals, like feathers, bones, and blood. Your cat needs more.
Make sure your cat is receiving enough fatty acids and vitamin E in their diets for a healthy fur coat. If you don’t feel your preferred cat food brand is delivering the needed diet, consider making your own cat food!
Controlled Environment
For indoor cats especially, sometimes the environment they live in might be drying out their skin. If this is the case, consider purchasing a humidifier to regulate the air quality of your home.
If your cat is allowed outdoors, make sure you’re only letting them outside when the weather is cool and comfortable. Excessive heat can cause irritation and dehydration. On the opposite end, very cold climates can cause dry skin in cats, as well.
Flea and Tick Care
Fleas, ticks, and other pests are a nuisance for your cats.
However, some cats are actually allergic to these insects! If this is the case, you’ll want to be on top of your pest-care with frequent treatment. Even a couple bites from these pests can cause irritation and dry skin!
Grooming
Cats are naturally very clean animals that stay on top of their personal grooming. However, some cats need a little extra care.
Bathing is a practice you should use sparingly, but it can offer results. Be sure to use shampoos sparingly as these can strip away the natural oils your cat’s fur needs. You can do this at home or contact a professional groomer.
For temporary relief, lightly soak a towel in warm water. Then, wrap this clothe around your cat and give it a gentle rubbing. The warm moisture will provide some relief, while the stimulation will increase blood flow to the skin and help speed up the healing process.
Call Your Veterinarian
Some cases of dry skin in cats might be too advanced for at-home remedies.
Disease and parasite infections can often go unnoticed by pet owners. It’s no wonder, cats are always doing weird things we humans don’t understand. If none of the above treatments are working, contact your veterinarian so they can diagnose the problem and offer proper treatment.
Either way, it’s good practice to make sure your cat has frequent check-ups for their health. Healthy cats are happy cats. If you want to make your kitty the happiest around, book a grooming appointment with us today.
