Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 12/22/2008

Question
Hi there,

I own a 2-year-old male short-haired Tabby (Stanley) and recently I've been noticing that he has white flakes in his fur that looks a lot like dandruff. When I pet/scratch his back the flakes seem to multiply. I'm wondering if it may just be because of the dry weather (Canadian winter), or if I should do something about it. He also sheds A LOT; more than my other 2 cats.  When I pet him, hair gets everywhere.  But he has a very thick, shiny coat and no bald patches.  Is this normal?  He is fed Eukanuba cat food, and drinks plenty of water.

Answer
Yes, dry skin can be a cause of this.  Environmental dryness causes flaking, and you can use a bath oil or a spray skin conditioner. But  a fatty acid deficiency in the diet may also be involved here.  I would try adding Omege 3 fatty acids (from your vet) to the food daily.  It should really help in 30 days if it is a fatty acid problem.