Have you noticed white flakes in your cat’s fur, especially along its back? That’s dandruff: dead skin cells shedding from the skin. A little dandruff can be caused by something simple, like dry air, but it can also be a sign of a skin condition, parasites or a health problem that makes it hard for your cat to groom.
Common Causes of Dandruff in Cats
- Dry air, especially in winter when the heating is on.
- Difficulty grooming. Cats that are overweight, elderly or have arthritis may not be able to reach their back and lower body, so dead skin builds up there. Read more about obesity in cats.
- Diet: a diet lacking in essential fatty acids, or an unbalanced homemade diet.
- Not drinking enough, which can dry out the skin.
- Parasites, such as fleas, lice and Cheyletiella mites (sometimes called “walking dandruff,” because the flakes seem to move). Read more about fleas.
- Fungal infections, such as ringworm.
- Allergies to food, fleas or something in the environment (read more about allergies in cats).
- Bathing too often, or using human or harsh shampoos.
- Sunburn, especially in white or light-colored cats.
- Underlying illnesses, such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism or other hormonal or skin conditions.
When to See the Vet
See your vet if the dandruff is heavy, doesn’t improve within a couple of weeks, or comes with:
- itching, scratching or overgrooming;
- hair loss, scabs, redness or sores (read more about hair loss in cats);
- a greasy coat or bad smell;
- weight loss, increased thirst or other changes in your cat’s health;
- flakes that seem to move.
Your vet will examine your cat’s skin and coat and may recommend tests, such as skin scrapings, a flea comb test or a fungal culture, to find the cause. The treatment depends on the cause.
How to Help
- Brush your cat regularly, gently, to remove loose skin and spread natural oils. Pay special attention to areas your cat can’t reach. Read more: how to brush a cat.
- Feed a complete, balanced diet. Ask your vet whether a skin and coat diet or an omega-3 fatty acid supplement would help.
- Encourage drinking with fresh water, a fountain and wet food.
- Use a humidifier in dry weather.
- Use regular parasite prevention recommended by your vet.
- Help your cat stay at a healthy weight so it can groom properly.
Don’t use human shampoos, dandruff shampoos, oils or home remedies on your cat. Many contain ingredients that are toxic to cats, and cats will lick them off. If your vet recommends a medicated shampoo, use only that one, exactly as directed.
