Tips for Dealing with Pet Dandruff

Have you noticed your dog or cat’s skin has gotten a little flaky? Are they scratching more or simply leaving dandruff wherever they lay? There can be many causes of dandruff, so it’s a good idea to talk to your veterinarian to ensure there is not a more serious medical issue to blame. But in some cases, dandruff can be caused by low humidity, nutritional needs, or hygiene.

Here are a few ways you can help keep dandruff at bay:

Give them a moisturizing bath.

Use shampoos and conditioners specially designed for dogs or cats to control dandruff and moisturize your pet’s skin. Be careful not to use dandruff shampoo for humans, as it may not be safe for animals or be formulated to address their unique needs. A warm bath every few weeks can make a big difference. Make sure you’re not bathing your pet too frequently which can actually cause their skin to dry out even more and throw off the pH balance of their skin.

Add healthy fats.

Talk to your veterinarian to see if your dog or cat could benefit from the addition of more healthy fats to their diet such as omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids, fish oil, coconut oil, or vitamin E. You may be able to use a supplement or switch to a higher quality pet food to ensure they’re getting all of the essential vitamins, minerals, and fats that they need. Too much oil can upset their stomach, so slowly introduce it to their diet.

Brush them regularly.

Invest in a brush that is designed for the breed of dog or cat that you have and its type of fur. You want it to be firm enough to work through any matting and stimulate oil production, but not so hard that it irritates their skin. Regular brushing helps with natural oil production and distribution, which can minimize dandruff and give your pet’s coat a healthier, shinier glow.

While dogs and cats tend to be pretty good at grooming themselves and keeping their fur clean, sometimes they need a little help, especially as they get older. A professional groomer can also help you develop a routine that works for your dog to keep their coat healthy. Discuss how often they should be getting bathed, what types of products to use to meet their needs, and how long to keep their fur. Every dog is different.

Sign your dog up to for grooming at Lake Wylie Pet Resort to keep them looking and feeling their best. You can even schedule appointments while they are being boarded so you don’t have to make an extra trip and they are cleaned and styled when you pick them up. Contact us today to schedule your pet’s next appointment!