Did you know cats can have dandruff?

Cat dandruff is the white flakes on your cat’s coat (they’re clumps of dead skin cells). It can be caused by different reasons and is not part of the natural shedding process of their skin.
The cause of your cat’s dandruff can range from simple to very serious. Simple causes of it can include Obesity, Arthritis, Undercoat Buildup, Allergies and Dehydration. Serious causes of cat dandruff may include Fleas, Ticks and Skin Infections. Very serious causes may include Malnutrition, Cancer and Metabolic Disorders.
Since some causes require medical treatment, it’s important to have your cat evaluated by your veterinarian, especially if you notice any of these symptoms in addition to dandruff:
- Itching
- Loss of fur
- Increased frequency of grooming
- Redness or other changes to the skin
- Vomiting
- Changes in appetite or water consumption
- Lethargy
- Changes in behaviour
While dandruff may seem like a small problem, it’s important to address it as soon as possible. If the causes is serious, early diagnosis means faster treatment and a happier cat.