Just like people, cats can get dandruff - if your kitty has white scales on their fur, it's possible they have it. Do not ignore the problem thinking it is only an aesthetic factor, in reality we must pay attention to its presence, because it could indicate that the animal's health is not optimal. In addition, it can cause an increased allergic response in people who are sensitive to hair, so eliminating it benefits everyone who is affected by it.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Assess if your cat has dandruff
Step 1. Identify dandruff
It is a collection of skin cells that detach from the skin and can be in the form of scales or scales. However, not all of them can be traced back to dandruff, so it's best to have it seen by a vet.
Step 2. Take the cat to the vet
To be sure that he has not contracted a disease that affects his general health and physical condition, it is best to have him undergo a thorough examination. Some possible pathologies are: diabetes, hyperthyroidism, arthritis or seborrhea, in this case the doctor will suggest a therapy.
Step 3. Eliminate infections that may present themselves as normal dandruff
One can easily get confused between dandruff and skin mite, known as Cheyletiella yasguri, which feeds on skin cells, tearing them apart and causing scaling; even the parasite itself resembles a scale. This pathology is in fact nicknamed "walking dandruff".
- The vet can quickly find out if the problem is due to the mite by taking a sample of dandruff and analyzing it under a microscope.
- If the parasite is identified, you will need to put your cat on Fipronil therapy. This drug is generally administered every night, at least three times, in order to kill the mites and solve the apparent dandruff problem.
Method 2 of 3: Eliminating Dandruff with the Brush and Prevention
Step 1. Address the physical conditions responsible for the increase in dandruff
Be aware that this problem can be caused by obesity, arthritis, and toothache. Make sure that your cat's skin and coat are in good condition by brushing them regularly and using specific oils on the fur. If the cat is overweight or has mobility problems, perhaps associated with arthritis, it will not be able to reach all parts of the body to clean itself, so those areas will be more susceptible to skin problems.
- If so, you should brush the pet every day until he can do it himself.
- If it's too fat that you can't cleanse itself because it doesn't reach certain areas of your body, you should put it on a diet. A normal weight cat does not have these kinds of problems.
- He may also stop licking due to a pain in his mouth, which can also negatively affect his grasp of food. In this case it is essential to take him to the vet, to extract any rotten tooth, clean the tartar or give antibiotics in case of gum infections.
Step 2. Keep your cat away from hot, dry environments
It may not seem like a big risk, but your cat's skin can be damaged by environmental conditions, particularly for those with short, fine hair, or completely hairless. Hot, dry weather can dry out the skin and even cause sunburn, so keep your pet indoors during the hottest hours.
Even the driest winter months can cause skin problems, although there is less risk of sunburn
Step 3. Brush the cat gently
Doing this occasionally helps remove dead skin flakes, reducing dandruff. Use a delicate brush and move it following the direction of the hair, without applying too much pressure: you have to stroke, not rub. Doing this regularly is a great way to reduce dandruff and improves blood circulation to the skin, which carries oxygen and nutrients, helping to keep it in good condition.
- However, dandruff may initially get worse in the first 3-4 weeks, as you have weakened the adhesion of dead skin cells, which remain trapped by the hair.
- Always brush gently and stop if you notice skin irritation or signs of pain.
Step 4. Avoid bathing your cat too often
Cats don't have the same needs as people when it comes to personal cleanliness. They manage to wash themselves, so contact with water must be rare. Unless the coat is visibly dirty, greasy, or dull, you won't need to wash it more than a few times a year.
- Washing your cat too frequently can eliminate the essential oil naturally present on the skin, leaving it dry and flaky. Bathing it is more beneficial to you (rather than the cat), if you are allergic to dandruff, as you will wash it off temporarily.
- If you decide to bathe him, use a moisturizing shampoo, such as containing oatmeal, and avoid those for human use, as they are too strong and will remove the skin's natural oils.
Step 5. Use a mild ointment
Believe it or not, there are moisturizing lotions and ointments made especially for cats with dry skin. It's best to look for them in a pet store, but if you can't find them, your vet will surely be able to recommend some, or you can buy them online.
Method 3 of 3: Eliminate Dandruff By Changing Your Cat's Diet
Step 1. Change your cat's diet
Dry or flaky skin may be due to a diet lacking in the nutrients that keep the skin in good condition. A diet low in essential fatty acids can cause skin problems, with the formation of scales and flakes. Cat food must contain high levels of linoleic and arachidonic acid, because these animals cannot make them themselves. Good food usually contains satisfactory amounts of it, but cheap food that has not been stored properly or that has been exposed to high temperatures may contain less.
For prevention, be sure to give your cat good quality food, which has the name of the meat used and the main ingredients on the label. Also make sure to store it properly, away from temperatures that are too high or too low, which could degrade fatty acids
Step 2. Add omega fatty acids to your diet
To further help keep the skin in good condition, consider giving your cat a supplement of omega fatty acids, also known as PUFAs or polyunsaturated fatty acids. They serve to improve the intestinal absorption of nutrients: fish and marine oils are a balanced source of Omega 3 and 6.
The required dose is about 75 mg / kg per day, which is about 300-450 mg per day for a cat weighing 4-5 kg
Step 3. Make sure your pet has enough water
Dehydration can also cause dry skin. Most cats don't need a lot of water, but to keep them healthy it's important that they always have some available. Make sure it is always clean and that the cat has free access, whether you think it needs it or not.
- Change the bowl frequently to make sure it is always in optimal drinking condition.
- You can also wash it from time to time to get rid of any bacteria.
