Cats
Nutrition for Skin and Coat
The condition of your cat’s skin is an indication of overall health. There are a wide range of causes for scratching or excessive licking, from external parasites and allergies to seasonal changes and stress.
What Are Some Symptoms of Skin Problems in Cats?
- Constant scratching, licking and chewing at the skin, especially around the head and neck.
- Scabs
- Redness or inflammation.
- Round, scaly patches on the face and paws
- Dry, flaky or otherwise irritated skin
- Hair loss, bald patches
- Rashes
- Swellings, lumps or skin discoloration
- Drainage of blood or pus
Luckily, the issue can often be fixed with diet. Modern cat foods have many ingredients designed to promote healthy skin.
Look for foods designed to help with skin health including the following ingredients:
- Vitamin A – this fat soluble vitamin promotes the growth of healthy hair and skin.
- Vitamin E – a natural antioxidant that will protect skin from damage.
- B vitamins such as biotin – will help the body promote growth of new skin cells, and keep hair soft and supple.
- Zinc and copper – these minerals are essential for healthy skin and hair and deficiencies of either will cause hair loss and itchy, inflamed skin.
- Omega 3 and 6 – support skin elasticity and a glossy coat.