Author TB Thompson DVM has been a licensed, practicing veterinarian since 2000.
Have you noticed your cat’s coat looking less than perfect?
Your cat’s coat is not just about aesthetics—it’s a window into their overall health. The causes of dandruff and greasy fur in cats include allergies, skin infection, endocrine disease and decreased mobility.
As a veterinarian, I incorporate several different approaches to improve cat’s skin and coat health. In this article, we’ll explore five proven methods, including dietary changes, grooming techniques, and specialized shampoos.
Keep in mind that results won’t be immediate, but consistent care will lead to improvement over time.
KEY POINTS
- Unhealthy cat skin leads to coat problems.
- Good diet, grooming, and therapeutic bathing can improve skin health.
- Diagnosis and treatment of underlying disease are also important for the best outcome.
Causes of Dandruff, Greasy Fur and Mats in Cats
Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand the root causes behind your cat’s skin and coat issues. Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step in restoring your cat’s luxurious, shiny fur.
Common causes of dandruff and poor coat quality in cats include
- Allergies: Overactive immune systems reacting to pollen or food can lead to skin irritations and poor coat health. (1)
- Skin Infections:
- Parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites.
- Fungal infections such as ringworm. (2)
- Secondary bacterial infections are often tied to other health issues.
- Thyroid Disease: Especially in older cats, hyperthyroidism can affect skin and coat health.
- Decreased Mobility: Arthritis in older cats or obesity can limit a cat’s ability to groom, causing unkempt fur.
- Other Diseases: Dental disease, respiratory issues, feline leukemia, diabetes, pancreatitis, and kidney disease can all contribute.
Once your vet has addressed any underlying health issues, you can focus on further enhancing your cat’s coat health with these additional steps.
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5 Remedies for Cats with Dandruff, Mats & Oily Fur
In this section, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty: the top five ways to tackle those troublesome skin issues your cat is facing.
From the right nutrition to the importance of regular grooming, I’ll share actionable solutions to get your kitty back to their best self. A bit of effort and patience can go a long way toward improving your cat’s coat.
1. Improve Their Diet
Nutrition plays a big role in a cat’s skin and coat health. Look at the food you’re currently feeding and ask yourself if it’s the best option. Things to consider:
- Reputable National Brand: Choose a well-known brand that provides complete and balanced feline nutrition. Look for a statement on the food’s label that it meets AAFCO standards.
- High-Quality Protein: Opt for foods that list a quality protein source, like chicken or fish, as the first ingredient.
- Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Essential fatty acids are key for healthy skin and a glossy coat. These come in the form of vegetable oils like canola and corn oil as well as from animal-based products such as chicken fat and fish oil. (3)
- Hypoallergenic Diet: Food allergies and sensitivities can lead to skin health problems. Your vet may recommend a trial with a hypoallergenic diet. Brands like Royal Canin and Purina offer high-quality purified foods for allergic cats.
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2. Help Them with Grooming
Cats with skin and coat problems can often benefit from assisted grooming. Here are a few tips to get you started…
| Topic | Advice |
| Get your cat used to brushing | Start slowly with a soft brush and offer small high-value treats like cooked chicken to make it enjoyable. Only do a little at a time to avoid overwhelming your cat. |
| Brush areas your cat can’t reach | If your cat is elderly or overweight, they might have trouble grooming their back or belly. Help them by brushing regularly before mats form. |
| Be careful with grooming tools | The Furminator comb removes loose fur well, but don’t overdo it to avoid leaving your cat bald. |
| Know when to stop | If your cat looks annoyed, stop and try another day. Aim for a few minutes of brushing a few times a week once they’re comfortable. |
| Get professional help | For cats with many mats, consider professional removal to avoid causing skin cuts and nicks. Visit a veterinary clinic or cat groomer. |
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3. Use Therapeutic Shampoo
If your cat’s fur is oily, specialized shampoos can help.
There are many choices, so be sure to consult your vet about which product would be best for your cat. A couple shampoos I’ve used include DermaBenSS and MiconaHex+Triz. DermaBenSS is a strong degreaser and MiconaHex+Triz is a gentler shampoo for bacterial and fungal infections.
Allow the shampoo to sit for at least five minutes before rinsing and aim for one to two baths a week. Always monitor for skin irritation; if redness occurs, discontinue use.
Struggling to bathe your cat? Consult your vet for sedative options.
4. Address Underlying Health Problems
There are many underlying conditions that lead to excessive dander, mats and oiliness in cats’ fur. All the topical treatment in the world won’t help if your cat has an untreated disease such as hyperthyroidism.
Ask your veterinarian if skin, blood or imaging tests are needed to rule out infections, endocrine diseases, etc.
5. Be Patient & Persistent
Since the hair growth cycle requires time to complete, coat changes will take weeks to months to become visible. Be ready to stick with a single strategy for at least three months before you can judge whether it is helping your cat.
When to See a Veterinarian
It’s reasonable to try home treatment for mild feline dandruff with no other symptoms. If you don’t see significant improvement after two weeks, consult a veterinarian. They can often get to the root of the problem and recommend a more efficient approach to treatment than relying on over the counter remedies alone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
In conclusion, your cat’s coat is a window into their overall health. By focusing on diet, grooming, and appropriate treatments, you can improve their coat condition.
Remember, consult your veterinarian for a tailored plan, especially if underlying health issues are present. Consistency and time will yield a healthier, happier cat.
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