How can my cat’s diet affect the health of their haircoat?
As far back as 1953, veterinarians recognized the relationship between nutrition and the health of the skin and haircoat. In a veterinary dermatology textbook from that era, we find the following quote: “Dermatoses (skin diseases) affecting various species of animals are more commonly associated with malnutrition than they are with… a good state of nutrition.”
Approximately 25% of cat visits to the veterinarian involve problems with the skin and haircoat. The most common skin problems in cats are:
- Abscesses
- Parasites
- Allergies (e.g., flea bite allergy)
- Immune-system mediated skin ulcers/plaques
- Fungal infections
- Food hypersensitivity/intolerance
- Self-trauma
- Skin cancers
Even in cats not experiencing an adverse reaction to food, their skin and haircoat can be affected by many nutritional factors.
Can a nutritional deficiency affect a cat’s skin and haircoat?
One major way that nutrition can affect a cat’s skin and haircoat is when there is a nutritional deficiency of some kind. This often happens when a cat is fed a homemade diet over a long period of time. A nutritional deficiency can also occur when cats are fed a poor-quality commercial dry food, a commercial food that contains nutrient excesses, or if a commercial diet is supplemented inappropriately.
Can a cat’s age play a role in nutritional problems as it relates to skin and haircoat?
A cat’s age is important when considering a potential nutritional problem with skin and haircoat quality. A cat’s body requires higher levels of certain nutrients during growth than during adulthood. Because the body has only so many ways to respond to diseases or nutritional deficiencies, it is important to look for and address any systemic diseases or parasites that may be at work. Nutritional issues should be considered if any of the following changes in the skin and haircoat emerge: •
- Sparse, dry, dull hair with “split ends”
- Slow growth or no growth of hair from spots that have been clipped or shaved
- Accumulation of dry skin scales
- Pressure sores
- Change in/loss of hair color
What about food-related risk factors?
Food-related risk factors for nutrition-related skin disease include:
- Lower fat content
- Poor quality protein or fat
- Lower nutrient digestibility
- High levels of nutrients that inhibit zinc absorption (critical for normal skin)
Protein and energy
Protein and energy are needed for skin and haircoat development. If food does not have adequate protein or fat, then the cat may develop areas of hair loss, or the hair may lose color. The haircoat may become dry, dull, and brittle. For adult cats, the protein level should be 30–45% on a dry matter (DM) basis, and fat should be 10–15% DM. For kittens, the protein should be 35–50% DM, and fat should be 20–35% DM. Overall digestibility should exceed 80%.
Essential fatty acids
Another critical group of nutrients for good canine skin and haircoat quality are the essential fatty acids (EFAs). EFAs must be provided in the diet because the body cannot manufacture them. EFA deficiency causes the skin to become scaly and dry, the hair mats easily, the skin loses its elasticity, and ear infections commonly develop. Fortunately, EFA deficiencies are easily remedied by ensuring appropriate levels in the diet. Linoleic acid is one of the EFAs and should be provided at >0.5% DM.
"…there are minerals that must be present in a cat’s nutrient profile in order to lay the foundation for good skin and haircoat quality."
Minerals
Finally, there are minerals that must be present in a cat’s nutrient profile in order to lay the foundation for good skin and haircoat quality. Copper deficiency causes a dull, dry haircoat with patchy hair loss and loss of normal hair pigment. The coat takes on a “washed out” appearance. Zinc deficiency causes hair loss, skin ulcers, and areas of skin thickening and cracking, particularly over joints and on foot pads. The skin-related signs of mineral deficiency rapidly resolve with appropriate levels in the diet.
How can nutrition affect a cat with itchy skin disease?
Another important way that nutrition can affect a cat’s skin and haircoat is when the cat is dealing with inflammatory or itchy skin disease. In these cats, providing omega-3 fatty acids (FAs) from fish can make a dramatic difference. The omega-3 FAs modulate production of chemicals in the body that contribute to inflammation and itching in the skin. Omega-3 FAs have the greatest impact if the underlying causes of itchiness are controlled (e.g. flea infestation). In cats with allergies, omega-3 FAs may allow for a dose reduction in the antihistamines a cat takes. It is important to choose a source of omega-3 FAs that is bioavailable—generally cold water marine fish are chosen. The optimal daily intake of omega-3 FAs has not yet been determined, so you will need to work with your veterinarian to find the precise balance needed for your particular cat.
"Omega-3 FAs have the greatest impact if the underlying causes of itchiness are controlled..."
The data clearly show a close relationship between nutrition and healthy skin and haircoat in cats. It is important to prevent malnutrition—both by preventing deficiencies of nutrients as well as preventing excesses of nutrients. Your veterinarian is the very best source of information and guidance for choosing the most appropriate nutrient profile for your cat. Be sure to ask your veterinarian about any supplements you are considering. Nutrition for optimal health, wellness, and skin and haircoat quality is more involved than you may think!
