6 Ways to Get Rid of Cat Dandruff

Cat dandruff is a common problem for pet owners and is a major cause of allergies in humans, as it contains a protein that is highly irritable for people that are more sensitive. Just like dandruff in humans, cat dandruff is actually made up of dead skin cells that are shed. Dandruff can be due to a skin problem, obesity (as the cat is not able to groom certain areas of the body), season changes or dry environment. Dandruff is more visible in black coated cats and more subtle in cats with white hair. Cat dandruff can be eliminated using a few practical methods.

1. Brush Your Cat

Brushing your cat can eliminate the dead skin cells and loose hairs from your cat’s body. Even if cats groom themselves, the dandruff may still occur.

If your cat is too obese or too old to be able to groom the entire surface of his body, you should help him groom by brushing his coat on a daily basis. Insist on the areas that are not accessible to your cat (i.e. tail or back).

2. Bathe Your Cat

Bathing can significantly reduce the amount of dandruff the cat sheds. Cats typically don’t like water, so you may need some time to get your cat to be cooperative and take a bath. If a bath is not possible, you should use a damp cloth and wipe your cat’s skin; this should have nearly the same effect as a bath.

3. Change the Shampoo

Certain shampoos dry the skin of your cat; opt of a hypoallergenic formula and get also a conditioner that will moisturize your cat’s skin.

Make sure you rinse well, as excess shampoo may also cause more dandruff.

4. Change the Diet

Diet plays a significant role in determining how healthy your cat’s skin is. Consult your vet and ask him to recommend you a few supplements for the pet’s skin. Omega 3 fatty acids are efficient in keeping the skin healthy and promote the secretion of a healthy amount of skin essential oils.

Wet food may also be recommended for cats with dry skin; you may also alternate kibble and wet food.

Fish oils are also healthy to maintain the skin moisturized.

Monitor the amount of water your cat drinks; if your cat is dehydrated, his skin will also have to suffer.

Make sure that the water is always fresh; cats don’t like warm or old water.

5. Get a Humidifier

If your cat spends a lot of time indoors and the air inside is too dry, this may cause dry skin and excessive flaking. An air humidifier can be a good solution.

6. Use Moisturizer

Winter and cold winds may cause dry skin and your cat may have more dandruff during the cold seasons. Get a skin moisturizer formulated for cats and this can prevent the skin from flaking. You may also opt for moisturizers that contain all natural ingredients.

 

Comments