All about cat skin and coat care

cat licking its hand

Symptoms of skin and coat problems

Does your pet have unusual skin issues?

Spot the symptoms

doctor treating a cat

How to treat your pet's skin and coat problems

Sometimes pet symptoms are more than skin deep.

Vet recommended supplements

cat scratching its jaw

Why is my pet so itchy?

Scratching can mean fleas, allergies, or infections. Find the cause

owner caring his pet

Is pet shedding normal?

Top reasons for pet shedding. Good treatments for pet shedding

dog playing with its owner

Dealing with your pet's dandruff and dry skin

Tips for flaky, itchy skin on pets. Natural remedies for dandruff

dog licking a cat

Banfield's guide to skin rashes

Causes and symptoms of skin rashes. Read about rashes

doctor checking the dog

Lumps, bumps, and masses

Are you seeing or feeling lumps on your pet? When to call the vet for help

doctor cleaning the cat

How to apply skin ointment

Was your pet prescribed topical meds? Tips for topicals

doctor cleaning the dog

Home skin and coat care

Hands-on tips for bath time, tackling fleas, and more. Take care of your pet

dog is bathing

How to give your pet a bath

Follow our handy step-by-step instructions. It's bath time

owner cleaning cat's hair

How to check for fleas

Plus, important next steps if you find them. Check for fleas

doctor checking the dog

How to find a tick on your pet

Ticks can carry nasty diseases. Spot the signs

Commonly asked questions about cat skin and coat care 

A:Most cats don’t need regular baths — unless they get into something stinky or yucky that they shouldn’t lick off. This is why it’s a great idea to get your cat used to baths from the start, just in case they need one.

Bathing can be stressful for cats. Always make sure their feet have a grip while you’re washing them. Even a towel or a mat for them to grab onto can help them feel more secure.

Note: If your cat has gotten into something toxic, like oil, or has sticky or clumpy areas you simply can’t remove, please see your vet ASAP! If your cat tries to lick these areas in an attempt to groom themselves, it can make them very sick.

 

A:Yes. Cats can overgroom their coats, especially on their squishy underbelly. Please address this with your vet to rule out different underlying causes (and to help prevent the risk of increased hairball issues).
A:Cats that are older, obese, or have mobility issues can sometimes have difficulty grooming their backs (if you can’t reach it, you can’t clean it!). If this is the case, you can help them with regular brushing to reduce flakes and smooth out their coats.

No matter the size or age of your cat, see your vet ASAP if you see open sores or it’s painful to brush on dandruffy areas. These can be signs of problems like a flea allergy or an abscess that needs veterinary care.
A:It can be completely normal for some cats have a bit less fur on the backs of their ears and on their temples. However, please check with your vet if this is a brand-new condition or if you’re also seeing skin irritation or unusual new scratching. Sometimes the only symptom of an ear infection that’s obvious to owners is an irritated outside ear.
A:Yep! Hairless cats actually need more bathing than hairy cats to keep their outsides healthy because they have incredibly oily skin. Bathing can help them to be less greasy as well as reduce buildup, which can lead to acne.
A:Many different things can cause skin issues in cats. It’s best to speak with your vet to find out the cause. They’ll be able to recommend or prescribe diet changes, medication, or special shampoos to help your sweet cat.
A:Here are the basics on caring for your cat’s coat: 

  • A regular high-quality diet (in the proper serving size)
  • Prescription parasite control
  • Baths (as recommended by your vet)
  • Regular coat brushing
A:Dry skin on cats can be caused by diet, skin infections, dry air, and more. See your veterinary team to get to the bottom of your cat’s issue. They’ll be able to recommend products, medication, and/or lifestyle changes to help.
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More about cat health

A grey cat eating out of an orange food bowl

Diet and nutrition for cats

What to feed your kitten or adult cat.

Cat food FAQs

A grey and white cat yawns and stretches on a couch

Dental care and oral health for cats

Tips for kitty teeth and kitten breath.

Cat dental care

Two cats being offered a bowl of food

How to feed your cat

A quality meal for your kitten or adult pal.

How to feed

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