Promote Healthy Skin and Coat in Your Cat
Your cat's coat can indicate whether or not your feline is healthy. If your cat's coat is not looking as bright as it should, it could be a sign of a skin condition, such as atopic dermatitis (skin allergies). This can lead to scratching and irritation that causes the skin to become flaky, leading to a dull coat as well. Follow the steps below to improve your cat's skin and coat health.
Give your cat a fatty acid supplement
Your cat's diet should contain high quality food rich in fatty acids such as Omega 3 to help maintain healthy skin. Unfortunately, many commercial pet foods lack fatty acids that your cat needs for optimal health. Adding an Omega 3 supplement that contains fish oil, like Super Pure Omega 3, in your cat's food can help address "empty calories."
Wash your cat's skin
Although your cat may not like it, on occasion a bath may be required to remove dirt and bacteria on your cat's skin, especially if it is itchy or flaky. Most cats will clean themselves, but self-grooming does not always remove the buildup of dirt and bacteria that causes irritation to the skin and coat. A pet shampoo made to alleviate a specific skin condition can help. For example, the ingredients in 1-800-PetMeds Be Super Clean Shampoo work to kill bacteria and other microorganisms that cause foul odors. If your cat's coat is dry, consider using 1-800-PetMeds Oatmeal and Aloe Vera Shampoo.
Keep your cat's shedding under control
All cats shed. Although some cats shed more than others, it is important to groom your cat regardless of how much he or she sheds. You can manage your cat's shedding by feeding him or her a proper diet and using effective cat grooming tools. Many cat owners like to use the FURminator deShedding Tool for Cats, which reduces the amount of hair your cat sheds by removing dead fur.
Treat your cat's skin allergies
Not only humans can develop allergies; cats can too. To find out what's causing your cat's allergic reactions, speak with your veterinarian. If your cat has severe skin itching or atopic dermatitis (skin allergies), your veterinarian may recommend using Atopica for Cats.
