If you notice that your cat has scaly skin, you may suspect that she has dandruff.
However, don’t assume a bath will do the trick. in many cases, an underlying disease causes scaly skin. So what is cat dander (and what isn’t)? purina experts are here to explain it.
what is cat dander?
according to dr. emily cross, dvm, dabvp (canine/feline), cat dander is something of a misnomer. “Dandruff” is just a common term that refers to flakes on the skin, but it has many different causes.
what is the difference between cat dander and cat dander? dandruff?
Though they sound similar, it’s important to note that cat dander is different from dandruff. Cat dander is a normal, healthy shedding of skin cells.
Dander is often blamed for causing allergic reactions in humans, but that’s another misconception. the main allergen is found in the saliva of cats, which is then transferred to the fur and skin during grooming.
what causes cat dander or dry, flaky skin?
dry skin is a common cause of flakes, dr. says the cross environmental factors, such as low humidity and diet (particularly low-fat diets) can cause a cat’s skin to flake.
Dry, flaky skin is more common in cats, but there is also an oily form. too much oil on the skin can cause a buildup of skin cells, which are then shed.
“In addition to a dry or oily coat, there are other reasons cats have flaky skin, such as obesity or arthritis. these conditions can limit a cat’s ability to groom itself and remove dead skin cells.”
Since there are many other reasons for a flaky coat, it’s a good idea to see your vet to rule out possible medical causes and find the right treatment.
what are the symptoms of cat dander?
symptoms of cat dander include white flakes on the skin, fur, or bedding.
If your cat’s scaly skin is accompanied by any of the following, call your vet immediately. these symptoms may indicate an infection or other health condition that requires medical attention.
- hair loss
- itching
- more frequent grooming
- reddening of the skin
- discomfort
how to get rid of cat dander?
Reducing flaky skin can be as simple as brushing your cat regularly or using a humidifier to moisten the air.
topical treatments can also be helpful, if your cat allows them, according to dr. cross
what is the best cat food for dander?
“Nutrition can play a key role in managing your cat’s flaky skin,” says dr. Cross. Putting overweight cats on a weight management program for safe and effective weight loss can help restore normal grooming activities.
This may mean eating fewer calories, switching to a healthy weight cat food, or making exercise a part of her daily routine.
Cat food enriched with essential fats may also be helpful. omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and omega-6 fatty acids help restore a healthy skin barrier.
You may also consider incorporating wet cat food into your cat’s diet. Since many cats don’t drink enough water throughout the day, wet food is a good way to supplement their hydration. Proper hydration can help treat dry, itchy skin that often leads to flaking.
Cat dander may seem like a minor problem, but it’s always a good idea to make an appointment with your vet to rule out more serious causes. For more expert advice on cat care, nutrition, and more, visit our pet experts page.
