Dandruff In Cats, Dandruff, Elvive Anti Dandruff

Cat Dandruff-Facts & Solutions

Did you know that humans aren’t the only ones who get dandruff? Pets such as cats (and dogs) also are prone to that dry, flaky condition. Just like with people, it’s not a serious condition, but it can be annoying and uncomfortable. So what causes it and how do you help your cat get over it?

First things first—is it really dandruff? Cats normally shed their skin as cells die. This can also result in flaky looking skin. On the other hand, if the flaking is excessive and accompanied with irritated skin or an itch, it might be dandruff instead.

Next, check your cat for any parasites (mites, fleas, lice, ringworm, and the like). Though small, you will be able to see them with the naked eye. If a parasite is at the root of the problem, there are plenty of anti-dandruff products in retail stores and pet shops. These products are usually effective in ridding your pet of those bloodsucking freeloaders. Search for either a topical cream or pet shampoo. If these don’t work, ask your vet what options are appropriate.

If you’ve checked your cat over thoroughly and see no signs of parasites, next consider a weather-related issue. If your cat spends a lot of time outside, it could be a case of sunburn. It could also be the result of humid weather. The best prevention is to keep your pet inside during the hottest hours of the day, especially in the summertime.

One other possible cause could be an overweight cat. If your cat is too large to properly groom itself, it could result in oily, flaky skin. The best thing to do in this case is to put your cat on a diet. By getting your cat back in shape, you can move towards ending the problem of dandruff. Besides that, an overweight cat can also develop conditions far more serious than dandruff—so even if you determine that excess weight isn’t the cause, you should make sure your cat stays at a safe weight.

Finally, if none of these things seem to apply, it’s probably time to see a veterinarian. Although dandruff is a relatively mild in terms of risk, a cat can scratch itself enough that the skin becomes raw and infection occurs. Again, this is unlikely, but shouldn’t be overlooked.