Problems With Dry Skin on Cats

Cats frequently experience skin problems due to dryness. Common signs that a cat is experiencing skin dryness include skin that has a dry, dull of flaky appearance. The coat also appears dry and dull. Another red flag that a dog might be suffering from dry skin is the development of dandruff. Cats often lick, scratch and bite at dry skin, which results in bald patches and irritation.

  1. Seborrhea

    • Seborrhea is a type of scaly skin disorder that is similar to eczema. Cats that have seborrhea experience scaling of the skin, or skin that is excessively oily or greasy. There are two different varieties of seborrhea, which are seborrhea oleosa--for greasy skin--and seborrhea sicca--for dry skin. This condition can be treated by using cat-specific shampoos that consist of salicylic acid or sulfur.

    Scale

    • Scale is a highly common skin condition that leads to dry skin for cats. Scale closely resembles dandruff, and results due to irregularities in the way the cat's body is producing keratin. Keratin is a strong protein that is a vital component in the hair, skin and nails.

    Comedone

    • Comedones are a type of minor cat acne. They appear similar to acne, and are filled with pus. This condition happens due to a problem around the foundation of the cat's hair follicles. Comedones signify that a cat is having difficulties with its endocrine system, as well as the glands that are responsible for making all of the body's hormones.

    Epidermal Collarette

    • Epidermal collarette is a condition that could also lead to skin dryness in cats. This condition is characterized by the existence of a circular patch on the cat's skin. This condition is closely linked to staphylococcal pyoderma, which is a bacterial skin infection that is common in cats.