Is Dog Coat Conditioner Safe for Cats?

The grooming aisle of a pet shop can be a daunting place. With so many products from which to choose, each with a seemingly different purpose, it can be hard to pick the right one. Sometimes it's tempting to substitute one pet product for another, and that's not always wise.

  1. Misconceptions

    • While both dogs and cats have a fur coat, the natural oils that protect a cat's skin and coat are biologically different than those of a dog.

    Significance

    • Using a conditioner made for a dog's coat on your feline can cause your cat's skin to change acidity, making it too dry or too oily.

    Effects

    • The effects of using a canine conditioner can be as simple as mild discomfort and irritability to more serious effects such as an allergic reaction and sores.

    Warning

    • Medicated grooming products, such as those for flea removal, should never be used for species other than those indicated on the package. The chemicals that are safe for dogs, for example, are not always safe for cats.

    Solution

    • Use only conditioners formulated for cats. Then make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.