Dealing with Dry Skin on Maine Coons
Maine Coons are one of the largest cat breeds in the world. These gentle giants have medium to long hair that is silky, heavy and water resistant. Regular grooming of Maine Coons is required to prevent tangles from becoming large mats that can cause dry skin, itching and general discomfort. Dry skin can also be caused by diet, environmental factors and medical conditions. Let’s discuss how to prevent and deal with dry skin on Maine Coons.
Maine Coons require regular grooming. Dead hair must be properly removed from the undercoat and tangles must be dealt with promptly. Always use appropriate combs and brushes when caring for your Maine Coon. Never pull or tug on tangles. If the fur has become matted, have a professional groomer remove the mats. Dry skin and dandruff issues are common if your Maine Coon is not able to groom itself properly because of old age or weight problems. Frequent brushing will help to distribute the natural oils in your pet’s skin and keep your cat looking and feeling its best.
Diet plays a big role in the overall quality of your Maine Coon’s coat and skin. Always feed a high quality cat food that is appropriate for your cat’s size and age. Look for a commercial cat food that has an animal protein listed as the first ingredient. In addition, the food should contain very little to no grains, artificial colors or flavors. Adding Omega-3 supplements to your Maine Coons diet can reduce the incidence of dry skin.
Dry skin can also be caused by environmental factors. Keeping your home clean and vacuumed can significantly reduce the amount of fleas, flea eggs, mites and allergens in your home. When treating for fleas remember to treat your whole home as well as your cat. Other environmental factors that can negatively affect your cat’s skin and coat include stress and anxiety. Try to provide your cat with calm living conditions.
Sometimes irritated skin is caused by a medical condition. Check your cat for dry, flaky, irritated skin or hair loss. Constant scratching, licking and chewing of the skin, scabs, inflammation and round, scaly patches on the face and paws are all signs of potentially serious skin conditions. Take your cat to a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. If prescribed oral or topical medications to treat a skin condition, always follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully.
Claws N Paws Day Spa provides professional cat grooming services in Orange County, California. For more information, or to schedule your next grooming appointment, please call 714-962-1005.
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