A Natural Remedy for Cats With Dry, Itchy and Scabby Skin

Cats may suffer from a number of skin problems that cause dryness, itching and scabby areas. A number of different factors can cause these skin issues, including allergies, environmental conditions and parasites. A process of elimination will help to narrow down the source of the problem. Many owners prefer to use natural remedies instead of veterinary pharmaceutical products to treat these conditions.

  1. Causes of Skin Problems in Cats

    • In looking for the source of the problem that is causing the dryness, itching or scabbing, you should investigate changes in your cat's food, cleaning products you use inside the home and plants that may be in the outside environment. If you suspect a food allergy, you may have to go through a process of elimination to determine which item is causing the skin reaction. The vet may recommend trying a food that is free of allergens, such as Hill̵7;s z/d prescription formula, or the use of uncommon proteins such as rabbit meat, duck or venison.

    Precautions On Using Natural Remedies For Feline Skin Conditions

    • If you use natural remedies for your cat̵7;s skin problems, keep in mind that cats groom themselves constantly, so any compound applied to the fur or skin will be ingested by the animal. Always ensure that you are using ingredients that are safe for cats to consume. Also keep in mind that products used on dogs may not necessarily be safe to use on cats.

    Dry Skin

    • Many people keep indoor temperatures very high in the winter months, which can lead to dry, itchy skin in cats. Diabetes can cause dry skin in cats, as well, so a thorough examination of your cat is important for any persistent skin condition. Nutritional supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin C are useful in treating dry skin in cats, and also provide some anti-inflammatory effects to treat irritated skin, according to the HolisticPetInfo website.

    Itchy Skin

    • A number of irritants can cause itchy skin in cats, including plants in their outdoor environment, flea bites, food allergies or medications the animal is taking. Investigate food allergies by removing ingredients, one by one, over a period of three to eight weeks to determine which item is causing the allergy. Frequent bathing will keep the affected areas clean, but this is not always an easy task with cats, according to the PetCareNaturally website. Applying aloe vera to affected areas can help soothe irritated patches of skin.

    Scabby Areas

    • Flea bites, which contain an allergen, can cause lesions and scabbing on your cat̵7;s skin. Diatomaceous earth, a fine powder made from tiny, fossilized marine creatures, is a natural remedy for flea control you can sprinkle into carpets, bedding and in crevices along walls. The sharp edges of the diatomaceous earth crystals cut the exoskeletons of the fleas, causing them to dry out and die. You can then bathe the cat̵7;s skin with a solution of water and chamomile to soothe the lesions and red spots.