Cat dandruff may occur in cats with skin problems or dry skin. Even if the formation of cat dandruff can be linked to the cat’s diet, and a change in diet may reduce the amount of dander, this problem should be dealt with both from the inside and the outside. Special dandruff shampoos can be used to eliminate the excessive cat dandruff.
Cat Dandruff
Dandruff is a skin condition and is quite common in felines. The condition will manifest through dry, itchy skin and excessive flakiness.
Cat dandruff is made up of dead skin cells and is the main cause of pet allergies in people, as the dandruff contains a protein that will irritate sensitive people.
The main causes of cat dandruff include the lack of moisture (not necessary drinking water or a dry food diet), underlying health problems such as diabetes, parasites, allergies or food and a poor nutrition.
The cat dandruff is difficult to treat and the cause must be treated first. However, applying some cat dandruff shampoo may reduce the amount of dander produced.
There is a skin condition caused by mites known as cheyletiellosis or walking dandruff, which can be mistaken for dandruff; this is actually a skin problem which requires immediate veterinary attention as it can be transmitted to other cats or even humans.
Cat Dandruff Shampoo
Using a suitable cat shampoo can make a great difference in reducing feline dandruff. You have to make sure that you use a shampoo that is designed for cats with dandruff; using human shampoo will not be effective and can cause additional dryness and irritation.
The anti dandruff cat shampoos may contain oatmeal extracts, horsetail, wood, lavender, lemongrass or apple cider vinegar or other natural compounds. Natural compounds work better in removing cat dander, as the artificial compounds can cause irritation and the cat may be allergic to these. Natural compounds rarely cause allergies in felines.
After applying the shampoo, leave the shampoo for 5 to 10 minutes and then thoroughly rinse; if the shampoo is not properly rinsed, this may cause dry skin and increased dandruff production.
Alternative Dandruff Treatments
As the cat dandruff may be caused by the lack of moisture, you should install a humidifier in the cat’s room and also make sure that the cat gets enough water.
Omega 3 supplements, also found in fish oil or flaxseed oil can be administered to reduce the skin flakiness. Omega 3 supplements will also ensure that the cat has a shiny and healthy looking coat.
You may also consider switching to a different diet that will contain the essential nutrients and may eliminate the excess cat dandruff production.
Wet food may be administered 1 or 2 times per week to the cat.
Groom your cat on a regular basis; the brushing will spread the essential oils on the surface of the skin and reduce the dandruff production.