A Veterinarian’s guide to your cat’s skin and coat health
Skin health and coat condition are a key part of a cat’s overall wellbeing. Healthy skin and a well-maintained coat protect the cat from external irritants, support temperature regulation and are an important part of the body’s defense system.
The wellbeing of the skin and coat can be supported in many ways. High-quality nutrition forms the foundation and grooming as needed helps maintain the skin’s balance. Cats often take care of their own coat hygiene, so the owner’s role is usually smaller than with dogs. Still, it is important to monitor and care for the condition of a cat’s skin and coat according to its individual needs.
In this article, we have compiled products that can help you support your cat’s skin and coat health. It includes examples of both cleansing products for the coat and other topical skincare products suitable for cats.
Shampoos
A cat’s coat generally does not require regular washing, instead, bathing is done on an as needed -basis. A long-haired cat may require more regular grooming, but otherwise washing may only be necessary if, for example, something gets into the coat that the cat cannot clean itself or as part of supportive care for skin conditions.
The active ingredients in a properly selected cleanser can soothe skin inflammation and itching, improve the skin’s moisture balance, balance the skin’s microbiome and pH and support skin regeneration. Especially when treating skin diseases, a suitable product should be confirmed with a veterinarian.
Examples of shampoos:
-
KW 2 in 1 shampoo and conditioner – suitable for both dogs and cats, it combines cleansing and conditioning
- DermAllay Oatmeal shampoo – moisturizing and soothing for sensitive skin, suitable for both dogs and cats
- Allermyl Sensitive & Itchy Skin shampoo – helps relieve itching in both dogs and cats
- Zincoseb shampoo – for oily and flaky skin, suitable for both dogs and cats
- Douxo S3 Pyo shampoo – antiseptic deep-cleansing shampoo for dogs and cats
Dry shampoos and care foams
Dry shampoos and care foams are suitable for cleaning the coat and skin without water. They are a good option for cats that find water washing unpleasant. The products can also be used between shampoo washes according to a veterinarian’s instructions.
Examples of products:
- Bio-Groom Klean Kitty Waterless dry shampoo for cats 236 ml
- Allerderm Foam Cleanser for dogs and cats 200 ml
- Dermoscent Essential Mousse for cats 150 ml
- Douxo S3 Seb care foam 150 ml
Conditioners
Conditioners complement coat cleansing. They smooth the hair and help especially long-haired cats prevent tangles. They can also moisturize the skin and strengthen the hair structure.
Some products are rinsed out, while leave-in sprays remain in the coat. Sprays intended for skincare can, for example, moisturize the skin or balance the skin’s microbiome.
Examples of conditioners and conditioning sprays:
- KW Coat Gloss brushing liquid for dogs and cats 175 ml
- Tauro Pro Line Volume Boost Leave-In Spray conditioner 250 ml
- DermAllay Oatmeal spray conditioner for dogs and cats 230 ml
Skin and wound care products
Various sprays, gels and ointments are available for the treatment of local skin damage and wounds. They are used for cleaning the skin, soothing irritated skin and supporting healing.
When needed, multiple products can be used together, for example a wound spray for cleaning and a cream to protect the skin.
Examples of products:
- Vetericyn+ Antimicrobial Wound Care 89 ml
- Vetramil honey ointment 10 g
- Abilar VET resin ointment 10 g
- Aptus Derma Care Gel 100 ml
- Clorexyderm Spot Gel 100 ml
Cleaning wipes
Cleaning wipes support a cat’s daily hygiene, especially when the cat is unable to maintain its own cleanliness. Antibacterial wipes can help maintain the skin’s microbiome balance, for example in skin folds.
Examples:
- Tauro Pro Line Aloe Vera moisture wipes for pets
- Douxo S3 Pyo hygiene wipes 30 pcs
- CLX Wipes cleaning wipes for dogs and cats
Spot-on -solutions
Spot-on products are topical solutions applied to the skin that support skin health. They moisturize the skin and strengthen the skin’s protective mechanisms.
The solution is applied to a small area of the skin, from which it spreads across the surface layers. Depending on the ingredients, the products can support the skin’s lipid balance and cellular function. They are often used as supportive care for skin issues based on a veterinarian’s recommendation.
Examples of spot-on products:
With these products, you can support your cat’s skin and coat well-being according to its individual needs.
