Like their human counterparts, cats can suffer from the discomfort of dry skin. Skin irritation and constant scratching is often a sign of dry skin, but it's important to keep an eye on any condition that your pet might exhibit, for it might be something more. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do at home to help alleviate the discomfort of your cat's dry skin.
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Stop bathing
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Cats' skin naturally produces oils that help keep their skin and coat in good condition, and bathing them gets rid of these oils and can dry out their skin.
Grooming
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Help them with their grooming. Brushing your cat on a regular basis can not only help to prevent hairballs, but it will remove dead skin that can clog pores and prevent their skin from being moisturized by their own natural oils.
Check for Allergins
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Dry skin can also manifest itself as an allergic reaction to anything from new carpeting to the new cleaner you've used on the kitchen floor.
Out of the Sun
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Sometimes dry skin is the result of a sunburn. Light-colored cats can be especially vulnerable, and there are places on your cat--like the nose and ears--that can be sensitive to sunburn.
Humidity
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Dry, tight skin can be a sign that the humidity is too low, especially if everyone is suffering from it. If you don't have a humidifier, set bowls of water out in every room.
Warning
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If the condition persists or if your cat is scratching so badly that they are pulling out clumps of fur or bleeding, seek veterinary attention.
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