Natural Pet Skin Remedies

Pets get skin conditions for many different reasons. A pet owner can temporarily soothe the pet's skin with natural remedies, but before attempting to treat the symptoms, an owner should ensure the pet has no parasites or infections that may need more complex care. A visit to a veterinary clinic should be your first stop.

  1. Holistic Nutrition

    • Sometimes a pet's skin problems arise from eating a diet that does not meet their nutritional needs. Changing a pet's diet to include more vitamins and minerals, such as adding more vegetables to a dog's bowl, may help with the problem. The website Vet Info recommends adding healthy fats to the diet. One to 2 tbsp. of olive oil in food may help. For cats, half a tsp. of olive oil is sufficient. Other options include foods high in omega 3 fatty acids, such as cod liver oil, flaxseed oil or pumpkin seeds.

    Topical Treatments

    • Both calendula and tea tree oil have an antiseptic action and are suitable for use on dry skin in dogs only. Cats benefit from an olive oil application on dry spots. A swab soaked in mineral oil gently in the ears temporarily removes ear mites.

    Baths

    • A dog with itchy paws benefits from a 10-minute dip in warm water mixed with Epsom salts. Prevent the dog from drinking the water.

    Commercial Natural Remedies

    • Pet owners can also choose to use commercially prepared tonics or emollients that contain naturally derived ingredients such as oatmeal. These remedies generally contain herbs as well that treat skin conditions. The downside to commercial remedies is that they may be more expensive than other homemade remedies.