Don’t we all wish we could hear the things that go on in our cat’s thoughts? While normally we want to understand the small things they do, like when they stare into the distance, or when they follow you wherever you go - but how about the important things? Have you been watching out for your cat’s nutrition, trying your best to understand what they need?
With pet parents growing increasingly conscious about pet health, ingredients used in pet food, and their benefits, several brands suggest that their food makes your cat’s coat health better.
Of course, every cat parent wants the best pet food for their furry family members, but do you know what a healthy coat looks like for your cat?
A cat’s coat makes up 10-15% of the cat’s weight and serves as a barrier against tougher weather conditions and harsher climates. There are about 1,30,000 hairs per square inch of their coat, and the outer layer of their skin produces Keratin to prevent water loss. Coat and skin health is indicative, both for cats and dogs, of their health and of any underlying concerns.
Healthy skin and coat in a coat looks like:
Here are a few concerns that may affect your cat’s skin and coat health:
Weight Management:
Pet parents of both growing and adult cats have to deal with cats becoming chonky, especially if they are unable to spend enough time making sure to engage in playtime. Another cause could be the cat food that they eat, or the quantity of consumption. Cats that gain weight tend to become susceptible to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and osteoarthritis. The increase in weight makes it difficult for cats to groom themselves, thereby leading to skin and coat issues.
Environmental factors:
Weather conditions tend to have a massive impact on the skin and coat health. Depending on whether the conditions are humid or dry, a cat’s skin could become flaky, cats can develop skin irritation and loose fur, or have a change in texture and appearance.
Stress:
A stressed-out cat tends to groom as a coping mechanism. This causes hair loss and skin irritation affecting the skin and coat health.
What helps maintain a healthy coat?
Having a well-balanced meal that is high in protein and contains Omega 3 and 6 Fatty acids is the first step to making sure that your kitty’s skin and coat is not dull or dry. Cat food and dog food with Fish oils usually contain this kind of fatty acids, however, Carniwel’s Ocean fish and Antarctic Krill contains Krill which provides 3 times the Omega 3 as any other fish oil. This means that your cat receives 3 times the benefits from the same nutrient!
Providing a well-thought-out and balanced diet ensures weight management and skin and coat health, your pet has an easier time taking care of their skin and fur. This means you and your pet can skip on the vet, for easily avoidable issues.
That said, make sure to visit your vet if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Excessive itching or scratching
- Bald patches or thinning fur
- Skin variation, redness, or irritation
- Unusual odours or discharge
- Changes in coat texture or appearance