Dandruff is not only the most aesthetically pleasing thing in the world but it is also a sign that the skin of your pet has become stale. This is quite common among pets especially dogs as they eat dry – kibble which is low in moisture and also because they do not drink enough water which leads to constant dehydration and thus, they can readily become flaky and dry in their outer appearance. If pets develop any kind of medical problems such as infections, diabetes or allergies then often the skin is the first to signify a change in general health by becoming roughened and dry. If your pet, too, develops a poor hair-coat or a dry skin then you must consider the following possibilities and go to your veterinarian :-
- Lusterless coats or dry skin might indicate an improper balance or deficiency of certain essential fatty acids in the pet’s diet. Pet foods are particularly low in certain fatty acids which are beneficial. Fatty acids are relatively dainty and prone to breakdown by improper storage or over – cooking of dry food. If your pet is following the fat – restricted diet then they might be at increased risk of deficiency.
- Irritated or dry skin might be an antagonistic reaction to the foods which contain additives, preservatives and artificial dyes. Food allergy to some specific ingredients can also cause flaky or dry skin.
- Mites, flea allergy, yeast ring worms, mange and other bacterial skin infections can often cause skin redness, itchiness, dry – skin and also hair loss.
- Endocrine problems such as diabetes, cushing syndrome, hypo or hyper thyroid ism etc, hormonal problems, skin cancer and immune problems are some of the serious causes the skin flakiness.
There can be many causes of dry skin and various tests might need to be performed if you want to find an exact precise diagnosis. Usually, a skin scrape with the microscopic examination is the first step at the office of your veterinarian. Occasionally allergy testing, dandruff or hair culture, blood test or biopsy will have to be performed.
WHAT KIND OF DOGS GET DANDRUFF?
TREATMENT OF DANDRUFF :-
1. PETS ARE WHAT THEY EAT :-
As i already said that our adorable pets need some certain amount of fat in their diet, but do remember to provide good type of fat, not bacon, in order to keep their skin supple and nice, and fur shiny. You can either switch their diet to a holistic, high quality food or you can also supplement oils in their diet, specifically designed for pets. It is very important for our pet to drink plenty of water in order to stay healthy and hydrated. Our body is of 70% water and yes, our pets, too, are no different. Pets which are in continual state of the dehydration are more likely to develop symptoms of kidney disease and many more other diseases. So, If your adorable pet does not drink sufficient water then you can add water in his food. You can also include canned food in the diet of your pet as it provides essential water supplementation and is wonderful for organ hydration.
2. BATHING :-
Bathing your dog regularly, can help to wash away dandruff peels, however redundant bathing can make the situation only worsen. So you can give bath to your dog once in a month during winter and Twice or thrice a month during summer season. When you are planing to give bath to your pet then it is very important to use the right type of shampoo. And no, i am not taking about the bottle of shampoo in your shower which YOU use, as that is not for your pet. There are many shampoos available in the market which are specifically designed for your pets and can help you in getting rid of dandruff. If your pet is showing even a small sign of having dandruff then you must use dandruff shampoo to bath him. However, if the problem persists even after applying of dandruff then it is advised that you should seek some professional help bin vet.
You’ll know definitely the right time when is to go out and buy dandruff shampoo for your pet if you begin to see dead skin or white flakes shedding from your dog’s fur.
3. IMPORTANCE OF GROOMING :-
It is another way of keeping your pet dandruff – free. Brushing your endearing pet not only makes your pet feel nice and keep his fur shiny, burr – free and and smooth but it also helps in distributing the natural oils of your pet’s coat and also massage his skin. However you should choose your brush carefully as if its too soft then it will not work whereas if the brush is too stiff then it will annoy rather than helping. Pet owners must determine the amount of brushing needed as it can exfoliate the skin of your pet. Usually cats generally self – groom whereas long – haired cats might need assistance. Also, double coated fur may trap the dead skin underneath it so you must take extra -care to brush your pets.
4. SUPPLEMENTS :-
Fatty acids supplements are important with skin conditions in all pets. Fatty acids help in eliminating the inflammation within the irritated skin and thus, help in improving skin suppleness and moisture, regardless of underlying problem. Most of the people are well known with the fatty acids like omega 3 which are commonly found in fish oils.
5. SEE A VET :-
If you take your pet to a veterinarian then he will know exactly what to do in treating your little fluffy friend. They may advice you to do the therapies, additionally, in treating dry skin, however the above methods for treating dry skin is more economic – free.
And last but not the least, do not forget to spend more valuable time with your pet so that he might not feel alone, so good luck!
