How to Control Dandruff on a Cat
Feline dandruff poses a particular problem for pet owners as it can cause human allergies related to the protein shed in the cat's dead skin cells. Usually the result of an allergic skin problem, seasonal changes or a dry environment, dandruff shows more visibly in black-coated cats, but can still be seen in all breeds and colors. When the cat is fat or obese, dandruff develops in the body areas the cat is unable to groom. For allergy sufferers, controlling your cat's dandruff can prevent misery for both you and your pet.
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Things You'll Need
- Soft cat brush
- Moisturizing baby shampoo
- Damp cloth or moisturizing baby wipe
- Feline moisturizer
- Humidifier
- Fish oils
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Wet cat food
Instructions
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Brush your cat daily. Brushing eliminates loose hair and dead skin cells, and stimulates the skin to grow new cells. It also distributes the cat's natural skin oils throughout the hair and body.
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Bathe your cat using a mild, moisturizing baby shampoo. Bathing reduces the amount of dandruff and puts water back into the skin. If bathing is not an option, use a damp cloth or moisturizing baby wipe to cleanse your cat's skin.
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Rub a moisturizer specially formulated for felines into your pet's skin to prevent drying and flaking. Your cat may need this extra attention during cold and dry weather because the excessive itching associated with dry skin can cause your pet to develop scratch sores.
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Place a humidifier in the room where your cat feels most comfortable. During cold weather, the heat in your house can dry out the inside air and dehydrate your pet's skin.
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Change your cat's food to include fish oils and omega-3 fatty acids in amounts recommended by your veterinarian. These supplements promote healthy skin by encouraging the secretion of skin oils. Feed your cat wet food instead of dry to provide your pet with an extra supply of water.
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Ensure that your pet always has access to a fresh water supply to prevent dehydration.
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Tips & Warnings
When brushing your fat or obese cat, clean those areas that your pet may not be able to reach, such as the lower belly and the perianal region under the tail. Check your cat's skin for tears, scratches or sores as you brush to prevent any dermatitis or infection before it occurs.
Identify the cause of your cat's dandruff by getting your pet a complete check-up and veterinary diagnosis before beginning any type of treatment. Certain diseases, including allergies and diabetes, predispose cats to dry, flaky skin. Fleas, ticks and the Chyletiella mite can cause feline dandruff, and your cat will need veterinary prescribed medication to cure its skin problem.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit scratching cat image by Lucid_Exposure from Fotolia.com
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Comments
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If your cat has dry flaky skin and is loosing his hair try1 TSP of Baby Oil or Mineral Oil to 8oz of water and Mist your cat. Use a soft bristle brush to distribute. Have a bowl of water w/ 1 drop of dish soap handy in case you see a flea or two and use a cat comb or your wet fingers to get it off and put into the soapy water. it will Kill the fleas"snap".
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what does this mean! damn computer stuff!@###$%%^.
