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Can cats get dandruff?
Dandruff may be a sign your cat isn't feeling well, but effective treatments and remedies from your vet can help clear it up.
There’s nothing quite like running your hand through your cat’s soft, glossy coat while they purr contentedly. Most of the time, their fur looks and feels healthy, a sign of good grooming and overall well being. However, just like humans, cats can experience skin and coat issues. One common concern is dandruff.
Cat dandruff appears as tiny white flakes scattered through the fur or on the skin, often more noticeable along the lower back or near the base of the tail. Vets may refer to it as 'scale' or 'scurf'. A small amount of flaking is often normal, as cats regularly shed old skin cells to allow for new growth. Most cats manage this naturally through regular grooming, using their tongues to clean their coats and remove dead cells.
However, if you start to see a heavy buildup of dandruff, it may signal an underlying issue. While the flakes themselves don’t hurt, the causes behind them, such as dryness, skin problems, or even parasites like ticks, could be irritating or uncomfortable for your cat. In these cases, the dandruff won’t resolve until the root cause is identified and the appropriate treatment is provided.
Is it dandruff or dander?
It’s important to know the difference between dandruff and dander, as they’re often confused but not the same.
Dander consists of tiny, microscopic skin cells that cats naturally shed all the time. It’s a normal and healthy process and part of maintaining skin health. Because dander is so small, you usually can’t see it. Along with cat fur, dander carries the protein responsible for many cat allergies. This protein originates in a cat’s saliva, which is transferred to their skin during grooming. From there, it spreads through the home via dander and fur.
In contrast, dandruff involves larger, visible flakes of skin that can be seen with the naked eye. While all cats produce dander, not all will develop cat dandruff. The presence of dandruff may indicate underlying skin conditions, dryness, or other skin problems that could require attention or treatment.
Learn more about what causes cat allergies and how to manage them in our guide: Cats and Allergies | Causes, Symptoms and Solutions.
Is it dandruff or fleas?
Dandruff is sometimes mistaken for flea eggs or flea dirt, as they can appear quite similar. However, it’s not uncommon for a cat to have both dandruff and fleas at the same time. Flea dirt, actually flea faeces, looks like tiny black or dark brown specks on your cat’s skin or in their fur. Flea eggs, on the other hand, are off white, oval shaped, and about the size of a grain of salt. These hatch into pale larvae that resemble tiny worms and may be found on your cat or in their surroundings.
To learn how to deal with fleas effectively, read our guide: What is the Best Flea Treatment for Cats.
Causes of dandruff in cats
Dandruff is often the result of dry, flaky skin, but it can also be triggered by overly oily or greasy skin. In both cases, there’s a build up of skin cells that eventually flake off into the fur. If your cat is showing signs of excessive dandruff, there could be a variety of underlying causes, ranging from skin conditions and nutrition issues to parasites or allergies.
Dry Skin – Low humidity, insufficient hydration, or lack of natural skin oils can cause dryness and flaking.
Poor Grooming Habits – Cats that are overweight, elderly, arthritic, or unwell may not groom effectively, leading to a build-up of dandruff.
Parasites and Mites – Infestations from fleas, cheyletiella mites (walking dandruff), or demodex mites can irritate the skin and trigger dandruff.
Skin Conditions and Allergies – Issues like seborrhea, skin allergies, or flea allergy dermatitis can affect the skin’s balance and health.
Diet and Nutrition – Deficiencies in omega fatty acids, vitamins, or other nutrients can lead to skin problems and poor coat health.
Stress or Environmental Changes – High stress levels, changes in routine, or environmental triggers can impact skin health and grooming behaviour.
Underlying Health Issues – Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or problems with the immune system can affect the skin and coat, resulting in dandruff.
What is cheyletiellosis, also known as ‘walking dandruff’?
Cheyletiellosis is a skin condition caused by mites from the Cheyletiella species. These parasites can affect cats, dogs, rabbits, and other animals, and they’re highly contagious through close contact. In some cases, they can also be transmitted to humans. With more severe infestations, the white mites may be visible crawling on the skin, giving rise to the nickname “walking dandruff.”
Not all animals with cheyletiellosis show obvious symptoms, but the most common sign is scaling of the skin, which leads to visible dandruff. If you notice flakes or suspect the presence of mites on your cat’s skin.
What are the symptoms of cat dandruff?
If your cat has flaky skin along with any of the following symptoms, it may point to an underlying health issue:
- Limping or stiffness.
- Increased or reduced grooming.
- Itching or scratching.
- Rashes or red, irritated skin.
- Noticeable hair loss.
- Greasy or oily fur.
- Underweight cat.
These signs could indicate a more serious problem affecting your cat’s skin health or overall well being.
Cat dandruff remedies
The most effective way to treat your cat’s dandruff depends on what’s causing it. If no underlying health issues are found, your vet might suggest trying some of the following home remedies to help improve your cat’s skin and coat health:
The right food: Certain types of cat food are formulated to support skin health and coat condition. Your vet may recommend a diet rich in essential nutrients to help manage dry skin.
Skin supplements: Products containing omega fatty acids, like fish oil, can help improve flakiness and restore moisture to the skin. These supplements are made specifically for cats.
Topical treatments: Depending on the cause and severity of the dandruff, your vet may advise using a treatment applied directly to the skin. These should always be used as directed.
Regular brushing: A consistent grooming routine helps remove loose flakes, spread natural skin oils, and stimulate circulation. This can improve both coat health and overall skin condition, especially in cats that aren’t grooming themselves effectively.
How to keep your cat’s fur healthy
To keep your cat’s coat soft, healthy, and flake free, try these simple tips for preventing dandruff.
Feed a balanced diet - Make sure your cat is eating a complete, age appropriate cat food, it should say "complete" on the label. A well balanced diet provides the essential nutrients that support skin health and a glossy coat. Also, ensure your cat has access to fresh water at all times to avoid dehydration and dry skin. Find out more about what can cats eat.
Support their grooming routine - While most cats are excellent at grooming themselves, a little help goes a long way. Use a grooming brush or stripping knife to remove loose or matted fur and flakes. Short haired cats like the British Shorthair usually need brushing once a week, while long-haired cat breeds like the wonderful Maine Coon benefit from daily grooming sessions.
Stay on top of flea prevention - Fleas and their dirt can irritate the skin and contribute to dandruff. Regular flea treatment is key to keeping pests out of your cat’s fur and your home. Your vet can recommend the right product and treatment schedule based on your cat’s lifestyle. Find out more about fleas.
Manage indoor humidity - Dry indoor air, especially in winter, can lead to dryness and flaky skin. Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air and help maintain your cat’s skin health, particularly in colder, drier months.
How do you get rid of dandruff on a cat?
To get rid of dandruff on a cat, start by brushing them regularly to remove loose fur and flakes while distributing natural skin oils. Make sure they're eating a complete, balanced diet rich in nutrients and omega fatty acids to support skin and coat health. Keep them well hydrated, and consider using a humidifier if the air in your home is dry. Check for fleas or mites, as parasites like cheyletiella or demodex mites can cause skin irritation and flakiness. Only bathe your cat with a vet recommended shampoo if necessary, and try to reduce any sources of stress in their environment.
FAQ
Do cats get dandruff?
Yes, cats can get dandruff. It appears as small white flakes in their fur, usually caused by dry skin, poor grooming, parasites, or underlying skin conditions.
How do I remove my cat’s dandruff?
To remove your cat’s dandruff, brush them regularly to clear flakes and improve skin oil distribution. Make sure they’re eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and free from parasites like fleas or mites. In some cases, a vet recommended shampoo or supplements may help.
Why does my cat have bad dandruff?
Bad dandruff in cats can be caused by dry skin, poor grooming, parasites, allergies, or underlying health issues like obesity or skin conditions. Identifying the root cause is key to managing it effectively.
What does dandruff look like on cats?
Dandruff on cats looks like small, white flakes scattered through their fur or on their skin. It’s most noticeable along the back, near the tail, or on darker coats where the flakes stand out.
Is cat dandruff harmful?
Cat dandruff itself isn’t harmful, but it can be a sign of an underlying issue like dry skin, parasites, or allergies. If it persists or worsens, it’s worth investigating the cause.
Can I use coconut oil on my cat for dandruff?
Coconut oil may help with mild cat dandruff by moisturizing dry skin, but it should be used with caution. Always check with your vet before applying it, as some cats may lick it off or react to it, and it’s not suitable for all skin conditions.
Should I bathe my cat if she has dandruff?
Bathing your cat can help with dandruff if it's done using a vet approved shampoo designed for cats. However, frequent bathing can dry out the skin and make dandruff worse, so it should only be done when necessary and as advised by your vet. Learn more in our guide: How to Bathe a Cat.
What food is good for cats with dandruff?
Cats with dandruff may benefit from a balanced diet that includes omega rich foods like fish or chicken, which support healthy skin and coat. Some cats can also enjoy small amounts of cat-friendly fruits like blueberries, bananas, and melon for added hydration and nutrients.
Kelly Rushton
Meet Kelly Rushton, a dedicated cat enthusiast and proud owner of Feline Fancy Ltd. With a heart as big as her household, Kelly is the loving mum to 10 charming Ragdoll cats. In her world, felines reign supreme, and she brings professionalism and warmth to everything she does. Through her blog, Kelly shares her wealth of knowledge and experiences, offering insights into cat care, behavior, and the joy of living alongside these majestic creatures.
