Cat Dandruff - Causes, Symptoms & Treatment of Dandruff in Cats |
 What is dandruff? Dandruff is more a symptom than a disease & a possible sign that something is amiss. There are many possible causes of dandruff in cats including; - Diabetes
- Seborrhea
- Poor grooming. This is often caused by elderly or obese cats who are no longer able to properly groom themselves.
- Poor diet
- Dry conditions, usually during winter
- Cheyletiellosis (walking dandruff). This isn't actually dandruff, but is caused by the Cheyletiellosis mite. Symptoms of cheyletiellosis are similar with a dandruff like appearance on the coat.
- Sunburn
- Dry, itchy, flaky skin are the most common symptoms of dandruff
Depending on the cause, other symptoms may include;
- Red/inflamed skin
- Itching
- Increased thirst/urination
How is dandruff in cats treated?
If you notice dandruff in your cat's coat, you should seek veterinary attention as there could be an underlying medical cause requiring medical treatment.
Treatment depends on the cause.
- If it is dietary then adding omega 3 fatty acids added to the food (never give your cats suppliments without veterinary supervision).
- Adding humidifiers around the house in the winter months.
- Medicated shampoos to treat seborrhea.
- Diabetes is a complicated disease, read here for information on how feline diabetes is treated.
- If sunburn is the cause, topical or oral steroid cream may be prescribed in severe cases.
Read here for information on dandruff in humans.
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