Effective Home Remedies To Treat Your Cat's Dermatitis

home remedies for cat dermatitis

Cat dermatitis, sometimes called scabby cat disease, is one of the most common skin disorders in cats. It is usually caused by an allergic reaction, often to flea bites, but can also be caused by something in their diet or by contact with an environmental substance. Home remedies for cat dermatitis include the use of oatmeal shampoo or coconut oil to soothe the skin and moisturise scabby spots. Another option is to make a homemade dry oatmeal shampoo by warming up some oatmeal in the oven and massaging it into your cat's fur. For cats with food allergies, an elimination diet may be recommended, but it's important to consult a veterinarian before making any changes to your cat's diet.

Characteristics Values
Cause Flea bites, allergies to food or environmental substances
Symptoms Licking, biting, scratching, hair loss, inflamed skin
Home Remedies Oatmeal shampoo, coconut oil, chamomile tea, Omega-3 fatty acid supplements

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Oatmeal shampoo

How to Use It

When using an oatmeal shampoo on your cat, follow these steps:

  • Wet your cat's coat thoroughly with warm water.
  • Apply the shampoo and work it well through the coat, adding more water as needed.
  • Massage the shampoo throughout the hair and allow it to stand for about 5 minutes.
  • Rinse thoroughly. You may need to repeat the application for best results.

Benefits of Oatmeal Shampoo

Homemade Option

If you're feeling creative, you can even make your own oatmeal shampoo at home! Simply warm up some oatmeal on a tray in a low oven (around 250 degrees Fahrenheit) for about 5 minutes. Then, massage the warm oatmeal into your cat's fur, let it sit for 5 minutes, and finally, wipe it off and brush your cat's coat.

Where to Buy

There are many options available on Amazon and other online retailers. Be sure to look for a product specifically formulated for cats to ensure it is safe for their skin and coat.

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Coconut oil

The benefits of using coconut oil for cat dermatitis include its ability to improve the skin's barrier function, reduce inflammation, and moisturize the skin. It may also help against bacteria and viruses associated with dermatitis. Additionally, coconut oil can be useful for treating dry skin and paw pads, as well as promoting gut health and reducing gastrointestinal issues.

While coconut oil is generally safe for cats, it is important to consult with a veterinarian before introducing it as a supplement. It may not be suitable for cats with tendencies toward weight gain, abnormal fat metabolism, or pancreatitis.

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Omega-3 fatty acids

You can easily incorporate omega-3 into your cat's diet by choosing cat food containing omega-rich ingredients, such as salmon, mackerel, or trout. You can also check the pet food label for ingredients like fish oil or fishmeal, or if the product is enriched with DHA and EPA. If you want to further boost your cat's omega-3 intake, consider adding dietary supplements, but always check with your veterinarian first.

Fish oil supplements, derived from cold-water fish, are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and can be given to your cat by mouth in liquid or capsule form. They can be given with or without food, but if your cat experiences an upset stomach when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with meals. Fish oil can be easily mixed into wet food. It may take a few weeks to see the full effects, but gradual improvements should be noticeable.

Some side effects of fish oil supplements, particularly at high doses, may include diarrhoea, vomiting, delayed wound healing, sleepiness, a fishy odour to the breath or skin, increased itchiness, or an oily coat and skin flakes. Discontinuing the supplement should resolve these issues. It is important to note that changes in blood clotting can occur in cats, and serious side effects include persistent stomach upset, inflammation of the pancreas, abnormal bleeding or bruising, or heavy metal toxicity.

Always consult your veterinarian before making any changes to your cat's diet or adding supplements, as they will advise on the appropriate dosage for your pet.

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Over-the-counter antihistamines

Some common over-the-counter antihistamines that your vet may recommend include diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and chlorpheniramine. Benadryl is typically considered safe and effective for treating allergies in cats, but it's still important to check with your vet before administering it. Your vet will advise you on the specific dosage to give your cat. While Benadryl is generally well-tolerated, some cats may exhibit side effects such as foaming at the mouth.

In addition to antihistamines, there are other over-the-counter options for treating cat allergies, such as topical wipes and mousses, as well as fish oil supplements. Topical therapies can help calm irritated skin, while fish oil supplements can reduce inflammation associated with skin allergies. However, it's important to consult your vet before starting any new supplement or treatment regimen.

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Chamomile tea

To use chamomile tea for dermatitis, brew a strong pot of tea and chill it in the refrigerator. Once it is completely cooled, pour the tea into a spray bottle and spritz it onto the affected areas of your cat's skin for a cooling sensation. You can also use a tea bag as a compress for your cat's eyes, but make sure it is cooled first.

Frequently asked questions

Cat dermatitis is a skin disorder that causes scabby spots on a cat's skin. It is often a result of an allergic reaction, commonly to flea bites.

If your cat has fleas, a comprehensive flea treatment is necessary. You can also try an oatmeal shampoo or pure coconut oil to soothe your cat's skin and moisturize the scabby spots.

Cats with dermatitis will likely be licking, biting, and scratching at the scabby spots. Common areas where these scabs will appear include the lower spine, base of the tail, face, ears, neck, sides, and belly.

For kittens too young for commercial flea products, bathe them in diluted Dawn dish soap (original scent). For adult cats, use products available through your vet's office.

To prevent dermatitis, regularly inspect your cat's coat and skin for any signs of irritation or abnormalities. You can also give your cat Omega-3 fatty acid supplements to help with dry skin.

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