Symptoms of Dry Skin on Cats

The condition of a cat's fur speaks directly to the health of the animal. A shiny, dandruff-free coat means the cat has healthy skin and a diet rich in nutrients. Cats can develop dry skin just as humans do from too frequent baths, bad diet or underlying medical conditions. The symptoms of dry skin include flakiness in the fur, excessive scratching and dullness to the coat as well as excessive shedding.

  1. Dandruff

    • Flaky dandruff represents the most obvious symptom of dry skin on your cat. You'll see white flakes embedded in the fur near the skin. When you brush your cat, these flakes will release from the fur onto the brush. A few flakes are normal. Excessive flakes require a trip to the vet for assessment of your cat's health.

    Frequent Scratching

    • Some cats scratch frequently or rub obsessively against furniture or the floor to calm itchy skin. Some skin conditions can result in raised red rashes or bumps on your cat's skin. A cat's natural inclination to clean an abraded area can result in sores or loss of fur from constant licking. A dull coat with flaky skin and fur that lacks luster requires a visit to the veterinarian to get a checkup and evaluate diet and nutrition.

    Shedding

    • Shedding occurs seasonally, but can occur any time when your cat's skin becomes unhealthy and the hair follicles to release the fur. Shedding caused by dry skin goes beyond the typical shedding of an animal that is losing a thick winter coat in preparation for summer. Excessive shedding causes gastrointestinal problems when your cat ingests excess fur during grooming.

    Allergies

    • Cats can develop allergies, and they often present symptoms on the skin. Cats can be allergic to foods, cleaners and fleas and just about anything around your home. The ASPCA states that allergies can cause dry skin as well as wheezing, sneezing, coughing, runny eyes and nose, and digestive symptoms. Cats can also develop allergies to fleas, according to the ASPCA. This allergy can result in redness, raised areas, dandruff and broken skin in areas where the cat continually licks to relieve the soreness.

    Causes

    • There are many reasons a cat might have dry skin. Too frequent bathing can result in flaky, itchy skin. Inadequate nutrients and vitamins in the diet can also cause dry skin. Cats require Omega-3 fatty acids as well as Vitamin E to keep their skin and fur healthy, according to the website Cat Health Guide. These essential nutrients can usually be found in high-quality cat foods and carefully planned homemade diets. Some cats suffer from underlying, undiagnosed conditions that present symptoms in the skin and fur first. Kidney, heart and thyroid diseases can cause your cat's skin to become dry and flaky.