How to Clear Up Dandruff in Your Cat

Cat dandruff is a common skin disease evolving from a disruption in the animal's production of keratin, the skin's protective layer. Symptoms may include greasy or dry scales either in patches or throughout the cat's coat as well as itchiness and hair loss. Allergies, environmental factors or poor nutrition can cause cat dandruff. With the appropriate treatment, including proper bathing and topical medications, cat dandruff can be managed successfully.

Things You'll Need

  • Apron
  • Cup
  • Medicated shampoo
  • Bucket with warm water
  • Towels
  • Fine-toothed comb
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Instructions

    • 1
      Medicated shampoo is necessary.

      Ask your vet to assist you in choosing the appropriate topical treatment. This is vital to successfully treating cat dandruff. Look for a medically formulated shampoo that will not dry out the animal's skin, and one that aids in degreasing and offers antibacterial benefits. Look for an anti-seborrheic formulation that contains a combination of benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, soluble sulfur or chloroxylenol. Review the active ingredients list to make sure none of these agents has a higher concentration than 5 percent. Do not use an over-the-counter shampoo, as these will dry the skin and cause dandruff to worsen.

    • 2
      Choose the right size sink for bathing.

      Wear an apron and have all supplies within reach of your hands. Fill a tub or large sink partially with warm water; fill the bucket fully. Place your cat in the tub, and gently hold under her front legs or loosely by the scruff if she is anxious. Use the cup to pour water over her body, starting at the neck. Never pour water over a cat's head. Saturate your cat with warm water, beginning at the base of her neck and working your way down her body.

    • 3
      Avoid the face area when shampooing.

      Apply a small amount of shampoo and rub gently down to the skin, massaging the shampoo into the coat to spread the medication and break up the scales and crusty formations. Continue down the length of your cat's body. Soak and lather each paw. The tail just needs a quick wipe.

    • 4
      Make sure the bucket holds enough water for rinsing.

      Use the bucket to rinse with clean warm water. Avoid running the water while your cat is in the tub, because noise and water pressure will agitate the animal. Fill the cup with water and start rinsing at the base of the cat's neck. Saturate his fur and skin to rinse away all the shampoo; there should be no residual suds. Eliminate excess water by softly squeezing the cat from the base of his neck to the base of his tail.

    • 5
      Grooming tools can aid in the removal of dandruff.

      Remove the cat from the tub and place her on the towels. Rub her coat briskly, including the tail and paws, until the towel can be removed with very little moisture on it. Use a fine-toothed comb to untangle the fur and remove any remaining dandruff scales. Start at her neck and work your way down.

    • 6
      A prescribed ointment may also be necessary.

      Apply any topical medications your veterinarian has prescribed. Follow the directions closely to avoid accidental toxicity. With a proper treatment plan and diligent management, cat dandruff problems can be cleared with little chance of relapse.