The other day, I noticed white flakes on my black cat’s fur and thought my cat had dandruff. Turns out, it was just dander. Cat dandruff and dander aren’t the same, as I discovered while researching.
Seborrhea, also known as the scaling of the skin, is a rare condition in cats. It’s actually a buildup of dead skin cells (called corneocytes) on the skin, hair follicles, or coat. When this buildup occurs on the coat, it’s known as dandruff. Let’s learn more about it!
What is Cat Dandruff?
If you’ve been noticing white flakes on your cat’s coat, that’s dandruff. They’re actually clumps of dead skin cells, which isn’t the same as dander. In other words, dandruff isn’t part of this natural shedding process in cats.
Furthermore, these dried, dead skin cells don’t just stay on a feline’s coat—they can also be shed into the environment, lingering in the air, attaching to surfaces, or clinging to clothing.
On the other hand, cat dander is microscopic and causes allergies in humans. Dander is a common allergen, but not all cats produce dandruff, which is more visible.
Cat dandruff also differs from flea dirt, although they often occur together. Flea dirt consists of small black or brown specks. They’re actually flea feces found on the skin or at the base of fur, usually around the tail or hind end.
Fleas and flea dirt can cause allergic reactions in cats, resulting in redness, itching, and fur matting, often accompanying dandruff.
Why Does My Cat Have Dandruff on Her Back?
Cat dandruff can have mild and serious causes. That’s why we suggest scheduling a vet check-up if you notice dandruff in your cat along with these symptoms:
Common causes of cat dandruff:
- Obesity: If your cat is overweight, they may have trouble grooming, which can result in dandruff around the tail and lower back.
- Arthritis: Pain from arthritis can make grooming difficult, causing dry, scaly skin and dandruff.
- Undercoat Buildup: Mats in your cat’s fur block airflow, resulting in dry skin and dandruff.
- Allergies: Seasonal, contact, food, and flea allergies can cause skin irritation and dandruff.
- Dehydration: Cats can get dry skin if they don’t drink enough water, especially in dry climates or with certain medical conditions.
Mild causes of cat dandruff:
- Fleas and ticks: These can irritate the skin, causing itching and dandruff, especially if your cat is allergic to flea bites.
- Demodectic mange: Overgrowth of Demodex mites in a cat with a weakened immune system can cause itching, inflammation, and dandruff.
- Skin infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can result in dandruff and require treatment.
Serious causes of cat dandruff:
- Malnutrition: Lack of essential nutrients can dry out the skin and cause dandruff.
- Cancer: Certain cancers, like cutaneous lymphoma, can affect a cat’s skin.
- Metabolic disorders: Conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or thyroid issues can lead to dry skin and dandruff.
How Do You Get Rid of Dandruff on a Cat?
If your cat has dandruff, you must address the underlying issue. Here’s a list of ways your vet may recommend your cat’s dandruff based on the cause:
Obesity
Helping your cat reach their ideal weight has many benefits, including reducing dandruff. Your vet can guide you on the right diet and exercise plan for your cat.
Arthritis
Managing your cat’s arthritis with supplements and pain relief can help them groom more easily, reducing dandruff. Your vet can recommend the best supplements and treatments.
Undercoat buildup
Regular brushing or combing can prevent undercoat buildup and reduce dandruff. If home grooming is tough, consider a professional groomer.
Allergies
Identifying and treating allergies can help reduce dandruff. Seasonal allergies might need medication, while contact allergies require hypoallergenic products. Food allergies may need dietary changes.
Dehydration
Increasing your cat’s water intake can improve skin health and reduce dandruff. You can encourage your cat to drink more by offering wet food, flavored liquids, a water fountain, or flavored water.
Fleas and ticks
Regularly checking for and preventing fleas and ticks can prevent dandruff. Use year-round flea and tick prevention even if your cat stays indoors.
Demodectic mange
This rare condition requires veterinary treatment. It affects hair follicles and causes scaly patches. Keeping your cat’s immune system strong with a good diet and exercise is important.
Skin infections
Monitor your cat’s skin for bacterial or fungal infections. Regular check-ups can help catch infections early for prompt treatment.
Malnutrition
Feeding your cat a balanced diet is crucial for preventing dandruff. How much food your cat needs depends on their age, breed, size, activity level, and overall health.
Cancer
Regularly check your cat’s skin for lumps or ulcers and consult your vet if you notice any changes. Early detection is key to treatment.
Metabolic disorders
Conditions like diabetes or thyroid issues can cause dandruff. These require veterinary care for proper treatment.
Does Brushing Help Cat Dandruff?
Yes, brushing can help reduce cat dandruff if there’s no underlying health problem. In fact, regular brushing spreads natural oils through the coat and removes dandruff. Cats with long hair or thick coats may need brushing several times a day.
Consult your vet to find the best grooming practices for your cat. If the dandruff is more than just a few flakes, your cat is itchy or acting differently, or if anyone else in the family gets skin issues, visit the vet.
Most of the time, dandruff is harmless. If your vet says your cat is healthy, don’t worry too much about the dandruff. Other cats won’t judge them for flaky skin.
