Cats can have dandruff just as we can. It’s nothing to worry about in most cases from a health standpoint, but it can aggravate allergies.
I recommend taking some steps to help your cat get rid of their dandruff. It’s not something they are going to do themselves, and it’ll make petting them more enjoyable for the both of you.
Related content – Check out hypoallergenic cat breeds here if you’re allergic to cats!
Here are some of the steps you can take to help reduce the amount of dandruff your kitty has:
My Cat Has Dandruff – How Do I Get Rid of It?
Bath Your Cat with Anti-Dandruff Cat Shampoo
Just as you would do for yourself, using an anti-dandruff shampoo is the first thing to try and may well solve the problem.
Bathing a cat isn’t the easiest task in the world for most owners and their cats. There is actually an excellent solution if it’s too much a problem to bathe your cat – dry shampoo!
Here is a dry shampoo I’ve used before:
Vet’s Best Dry Shampoo for Cats
It’s a waterless product with no rinsing necessary, really easy to apply by just massaging and brushing through their coats, and will save the trauma of a bath (for both of you.)
It’s safe to use on cats 12-weeks and older has a calming fragrance and doesn’t affect topical flea control so there are no reasons not to give it a try.
You only need to leave the foam in for a few minutes. By the time you’ve worked on other areas it should be good to be brushed through.
Click Here to See Vet’s Best Dry Shampoo on Amazon!Change Your Cat’s Diet
Cats are very sensitive to treats and foods outside of their staple diet of high-quality cat food and this might be contributing to their dandruff issue.
First, cut out any treats you’ve been giving your kitty. This includes both cat treats and bits of meat leftovers you might be giving them.
Second, switch up the brand of food you’re giving them. Select a low-fat option and make it age appropriate too if applicable.
You should see an improvement in the quality of your cat’s coat, skin, and hopefully a reduction in the amount of dandruff.
Groom Your Cat More Often
Some cats start getting dandruff when they let their coats go a little and aren’t keeping up with their grooming, so giving them a little help isn’t a bad thing.
Brushing your cat helps distribute the natural oils and remove loose debris and dirt. Making their job keeping themselves clean easier, and lessens the effects of allergies which is a bonus.
It’s fun and relaxing for both pet and pet owner too. A great way to spend some quality time bonding, give it a try if you don’t already.
Massage Your Cat with a Dry Skin Oil
There are some great dry skin oils and sprays specially formulated for cats that can help reduce dry skin issues and dandruff.
I’ve used one before for one of my cats that had some kind of allergy and would scratch a lot and was causing dandruff.
It resolved the problem in a matter of days so I always recommend cat oils when people tell me their cat is itching a lot, irritated, and has some dry skin issues.
Have You Cat Checked by a Vet
I’m sure there is nothing to worry about if your cat has a dandruff problem, but it’s always a good idea to give them a general health check with a vet if they haven’t had one for a while.
No one wants an unexpected vet’s bill. However, if your cat is itching a lot and aggravating the dandruff problem there might be another issue that needs to be addressed.
Check Your Cat Is Not Stressed for Any Reason
Cats can get stressed out by the presence of other cats, loud noises, children, and many other things that can be going on in a busy household.
Take a moment to check that your cat has plenty of ‘safe’ spaces to sleep without being disturbed. Isn’t being harassed by a child or another cat, and is generally happy.
Much like us, being stressed lowers a cat immune system. Skin conditions are common side-effects to being stressed and dandruff could be another symptom.
One or more of the above tips should be enough to get rid of your cat’s dandruff problem, or at least get it under control to a very small amount.