Veterinarian Explains in Detail the Causes and Solutions for Cat Dandruff

Have you ever noticed a white, powder-like substance coming off your cat's body while petting them? That is cat dander. Cat dander can sometimes be a symptom of poor health or a skin condition.

In this article, we will explain the causes of cat dander and how to improve it.

What is cat dander?

Dander is made from a cat's skin. A cat's skin is categorized into the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue, starting from the outermost layer. The epidermis grows from the bottom up, eventually becoming the stratum corneum, which then peels off. That is what we call dander. A cat's skin growth cycle repeats approximately every three weeks.

What causes cat dander?

Even healthy skin produces dander as old stratum corneum peels off over a three-week period. However, the amount is not large, and the skin should have a healthy color without redness.

If there is a large amount of dander all over the body, or if there is inflammation or itching on the skin, it is possible that a skin issue is occurring. We will explain the causes of excessive cat dander.

Dermatitis

Dermatitis in cats can be allergic (food allergies, atopic dermatitis), autoimmune, bacterial, fungal, or parasitic (fleas, mites, lice).

In addition to dander, these forms of dermatitis cause intense itching, hair loss, and skin redness.

Lack of grooming

Cats may have difficulty grooming themselves due to aging, obesity, or pain from conditions such as stomatitis or arthritis.

Nutritional deficiency

A cat's skin and coat are made from protein in their diet. Therefore, a diet that does not contain sufficient protein can lead to an increase in dander and a dull coat. This is often seen in cats on homemade diets or those on protein-restricted diets for chronic kidney disease.

Dry skin

There are natural oils on the surface of the skin that protect the stratum corneum. If these oils are lacking due to dryness, the skin cells peel off more easily, increasing dander. Dander may increase during the winter when the air is dry or when using air conditioning.

Stress

When a cat feels stressed, they may experience a temporary increase in dander. Some cats may even produce an unusual amount of dander only while being examined at a veterinary clinic.

What to do if your cat has dander

Cat dander can often be improved with daily care. If no improvement is seen, it may be a case of dermatitis.

Brushing

Brushing removes loose fur and tangles while also providing a skin massage effect.

Aim to brush short-haired breeds once a day and long-haired breeds twice a day. For cats that dislike brushing, we recommend getting them used to it gradually while giving them treats.

Forcefully pulling on tangles or brushing with too much pressure can damage the skin. Do not force the process.

Shampooing and moisturizing

Generally, cats do not need to be shampooed; however, if they have oily skin or are severely soiled, shampooing may be effective.

Always choose a shampoo specifically for cats. Be sure to rinse the shampoo out thoroughly, and using a moisturizer after shampooing can prevent skin dryness and reduce dander. Drying the cat thoroughly after a bath can also prevent the growth of bacteria.

In cases of dermatitis, medicinal shampoo therapy may be used. If your cat is difficult to bathe, it is a good idea to consult a veterinarian or a pet grooming salon.

Reviewing the diet

Choose cat food labeled as "complete and balanced." Complete and balanced food contains the protein a cat needs.

If you are feeding a homemade diet, try to increase protein sources like chicken breast. It is said to be difficult to provide all the necessary nutrients for a cat through a homemade diet alone. We recommend seeking the opinion of a professional, such as a veterinarian.

If your cat is on a protein-restricted diet for kidney disease, increasing protein on your own will place an increased burden on the cat's kidneys. Always consult with your veterinarian.

Reviewing the living environment

To help alleviate a cat's stress, consider installing a cat tree so they can exercise vertically, or provide a hiding space.

Moderate exercise is also necessary to prevent obesity. You should also engage your cat with toys.

Consulting a veterinarian

If your cat has itching or redness in addition to dander, it may be dermatitis. If dermatitis is the cause, it is difficult to improve with daily care alone, and fundamental treatment is required.

Depending on the cause of the dermatitis, oral medications such as antibiotics or antifungals may be prescribed. If parasites are the cause, anti-parasitic medication will be prescribed. Be aware that some skin diseases can be transmitted to humans and other animals.

Additionally, if the cat has arthritis or stomatitis, those conditions may need to be treated as well. Relieving pain will improve not only the dander but the overall quality of life.

Summary

By observing your cat's body on a regular basis, you should be able to keep track of how much dander is present and whether they are able to groom themselves properly.

While some dander is normal, it is likely that dander appearing all over the body is excessive. First, try brushing and reviewing their living environment. If there is no improvement, or if there is accompanying itching or redness, be sure to visit a veterinary clinic.

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