Why Your Pet’s Coat May Be Dry and Itchy
If your dog or cat is scratching incessantly or their fur feels brittle and dry, you’re not alone. Many pet owners face this issue, especially in the colder months when dry air exacerbates skin conditions. But here's the truth: while many think bathing is the solution, the root cause of most coat problems lies in what your pet eats.
The Diet Dilemma: Why Most Foods Fall Short
What you think is “great” pet food might not be as good as you’ve been led to believe. The truth is, about 95% of commercial dog and cat foods are loaded with fillers, by-products, and artificial additives that fail to provide adequate nutrition. These deficiencies often manifest in your pet's health, with dry, itchy skin and a dull coat being common symptoms.
At Dog Dog Cat, we focus on premium pet foods made with whole, biologically appropriate ingredients. Switching to these brands—and potentially adding a supplement—can resolve coat issues faster than you'd imagine.
The Role of Premium Supplements
Adding supplements to your pet’s diet can make a dramatic difference in their skin and coat health. Here are some of our top recommendations:
- InClover Optagest Probiotics: Supports gut health, which is closely linked to skin and coat health. A balanced microbiome ensures your pet absorbs the nutrients they need.
- Missing Link Skin & Coat Formula: A superfood blend rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that target dryness and itchiness.
- Grizzly Salmon Oil: Packed with omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, this oil promotes a glossy coat and soothes inflammation.
- Ultra Oil for Pets: A balanced blend of fish, flaxseed, and hempseed oils, designed to moisturize the skin from the inside out.
The Power of Raw Diets
Feeding your pet a frozen raw diet can revolutionize their health. These diets mimic what dogs and cats evolved to eat, offering a wealth of benefits, including improved coat quality.
Brands We Carry:
- Primal Pet Foods: Provides complete and balanced raw meals with high-quality proteins and organic produce.
- Small Batch: Locally sourced, minimally processed raw food with a focus on sustainability.
- Stella & Chewy’s: Offers convenient freeze-dried and raw-frozen meals packed with natural nutrients.
- Answers Pet Food: Fermented raw diets that enhance digestion and boost immune health.
- Vital Essentials: Freeze-dried and frozen raw meals rich in protein and nutrients for vibrant health.
By feeding raw, you’ll see shinier coats, healthier skin, and better overall vitality in your pet.
Senior Pets and Coat Health
As pets age, their skin becomes less resilient, and their coats can lose luster. Senior pets benefit greatly from diets rich in high-quality proteins to maintain muscle mass and immune function.
Key tips for senior pets:
- Don’t reduce protein: Contrary to outdated advice, seniors need protein to support aging muscles and overall health.
- Boost the immune system: Incorporate omega-rich supplements like Grizzly Salmon Oil or Missing Link.
How Weather Impacts Skin and Coat Health
Cold, dry weather during the winter months can strip moisture from your pet’s skin, leading to itchiness and flaking. While regular grooming helps remove dirt and loose fur, the real solution lies in diet.
Diet vs. Bathing:
Bathing too often or with harsh products can strip your pet’s natural oils, worsening dryness. On the other hand, improving their diet replenishes essential nutrients from the inside out, providing long-lasting results.
The Simplicity of Better Nutrition
Improving your pet’s diet and adding a supplement couldn’t be easier—and the benefits can’t be overstated. By investing in high-quality foods and the right supplements, you’re not only addressing their coat health but also boosting their overall well-being.
At Dog Dog Cat, we’re here to help you find the perfect combination of food and supplements tailored to your pet’s needs. Whether it’s a raw diet from Stella & Chewy’s or a skin-and-coat formula from Missing Link, we’ve got what your furry friends need to thrive.
Smarter Food, Happier Pets
Dry, itchy coats don’t have to be the norm. With premium nutrition, targeted supplements, and a little care, your dog or cat can enjoy a shiny, itch-free coat—and you can enjoy cuddles without the constant scratching!
Visit us in South Lake Tahoe or shop our carefully curated selection of foods and supplements online. Because your pet deserves the best, from the inside out.