Cat Dandruff and How to Treat It Animal Blog from Animal Friends Pet Insurance

Cat Dandruff - How to Treat It

Cat dandruff can be caused by several different things. Pet insurance customers should be aware that if their cat spends a lot of time outdoors in the summer time they can get a mild sunburn which may cause flaking. They can also get dandruff in the winter time when their skin tends to be dry. Cat dandruff is commonly seen in overweight cats who can't properly groom their back. If your cat is having grooming trouble you will notice a spot about three inches from their tail that appears oily and flaky.

If you notice that your cat has white flakes on their coat that looks like dandruff; it is unwise to use human anti-dandruff shampoo on them. The harsh chemicals could harm their skin and also irritate their eyes and mouth. There are pet shampoos especially designed for their delicate skin, and you can ask your vet which type may be best for your cat.

It is important to treat your cat's skin problems from the inside out. You can supplement their cat food with omega 3 fatty acids. You may be able to see a difference within as little as three weeks after giving your cat the supplement daily. For a handy homemade remedy you can use a high quality olive oil. Put it in a small spray bottle and spray on the top of your cat's food. Olive oil is high in omega 3 fatty acids and is a simple way to supplement your cat's diet.

If your cat is overweight you can help them out by grooming your pet . There are many different grooming brushes and combs on the market. You want one that acts like a de-shedding tool. It removes the loose hair underneath and not just the top coat. By grooming your cat you are also bonding with them and you will reduce the amount of shedding your cat does.

Cat dandruff can in most cases be easily treated by giving your cat omega 3 fatty acids and by grooming them. If the dandruff is persistent or doesn't seem to go away, then your should consult your vet for other treatment options.