Top tips for healthy skin and coat in pets

As the weather gets warmer many pet owners will be spending time with pets in the garden. During Spring, allergies can become more prominent with some pets developing dry, itchy skin and sensitive skin. Managing a pet’s skin and coat is one of the most common reasons a pet owner will take their dog or cat to visit the vet. During the Coronavirus lockdown it is especially important to maintain your pet’s skin health as well as their overall health to reduce any unwanted vet trips. Korina Stephens RVN at Nutravet said: “Your pet may have all year-round symptoms, which could mean that they are allergic to something in your home, however there are allergic reactions that are seasonal. Outdoor seasonal allergens can include, ragweed, grasses and pollens. A healthy coat should be shiny but not greasy and will be soft and quite smooth. An unhealthy coat on a dog will be dry and brittle and could also be greasy with a dusty appearance. There could also be a few bald spots and an unpleasant smell.” Regular grooming This will help to remove loose hairs, keep your pet’s coat free from dirt and distribute natural skin oils, which help to make their coat shiny. Try not to groom them more than once a week, as this could lead to irritation on the skin. Don't over bathe your pet This can lead to dry and sensitive skin. Be sure to only use animal specific shampoos, as human shampoo could irritate your pet's skin. Protect your pet from the sun Like humans, overexposure to the sun is bad for your pet’s skin. Pets with light skin and short or thin hair, such as white cats are more susceptible to sensitive skin caused from the sun. Try to limit the amount of time your pet spends in the sun and watch for signs of burning. Food Your pets should be fed a healthy nutritional diet all year round. Foods rich in fatty acids, oils and vitamins can support healthy skin. Often cats and dogs receive an unnatural diet, which is too high in Omega-6 fatty acids derived from high levels of cereals and vegetable proteins. Special Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA from refined fish oil are important to counteract the Omega-6 imbalance. Parasite control One of the most common causes of skin complaints for pets is parasites and fleas. Prevention is always the best treatment for flea control. Be sure to treat all pets, indoor and outdoor, as outdoor pets can carry fleas to indoor pets. Consult your vet for the best product to treat your pet. Remember to also treat anywhere in the home where your pet goes – beds and furniture etc. Fluids A constant supply of water is important to keep your pet cool and hydrated, like us, your cat or dog requires water to maintain healthy skin. Reduce stress Stress can lead to over grooming. Understand what is causing your pet to become stressed and try to reduce this, if possible. Keep your home and their bed clean Regularly clean, provide fresh bedding and reduce dust in your home. Vacuum clean on a regular basis, at least twice a week, will help to get rid of any excess dust. This will include rugs, curtains and any other material that gathers dust. This article has been provided by Nutravet