Expert: Jessica - 1/25/2010

Question
Hi, I own a blue tabby Devon Rex boy called Mr Spanky. Recently his skin has been getting very dry and flaky on his stomach and on his neck where there is no fur. People I know have suggested I try putting Olive Oil on it or Vaseline, should I do that or do you think I should just leave it and its nothing to worry about? It is summer at the moment and quite hot do you think that might have anything to do with it? Does he need more water? His nose at the moment is not very wet its quite dry. Perhaps giving him a bath or a wash would help? I'm not sure. Please help.

Thanks,
Imogen.

Answer
Hi Imogen.  You should probably have a vet look at him to make sure it's not a medical condition.  Some things like the fungal infection ringworm or the mite cheyletiella can cause flaky skin.  

If all is clear, your cat might benefit from some more protein in his diet, as well as some Omega-3 Fatty Acids.  I’m not sure what’s available in New Zealand, but search for skin and coat supplements for cats that include Omega-3 Fatty Acids in them.  Eggs contain both protein and Omega-3, so these make a nice supplement to a cat’s diet when the cat has flaky skin.  The yolk is especially nutritious, and feeding them raw is fine, as long as the eggs have remained properly refrigerated.  Be sure to throw out any egg that remains after 20 minutes.

There are also topical treatments made just for cats with dry skin available at most pet stores.  You can use any of these.  Olive oil won’t necessarily harm him, but it can cause an undesirable residue, so I would personally avoid this.  Soothing baths can be helpful as well.  Just be sure they’re specifically made to aid dry skin.  Otherwise, they could have a drying effect.

Good luck!

Jessica