Is your cat looking a little drab or do they have dry, flakey skin? Worry not, it’s not the end of the world! As we humans tend to forget, fur and skin health in cats is highly dependent on diet. If you’re feeding your feline friend dry food, you might be scratching your head wondering – can it really help and keep their coat shiny and skin smooth? Because, yes, your fluff ball’s coat can indeed go from drab to fab with the right kind of kibble, and we are here to pounce into the details.

Is Dry Food Healthy for Cats?

Dry cat food tends to have a negative reputation, but it can be incredibly nutritious and healthy, so long as it is crafted with a good blend of ingredients. Searching for dry cat food that contains real meat, delicious unsaturated crude fats and no nasties (grain-free and no other fillers) can ensure your cat consumes a balanced and healthy diet. 

What Ingredients Are Often Found in Dry Cat Food? (To Improve Skin and Fur)

You can keep an eye out for some key ingredients in your cat's dry food to ensure a healthy and shiny coat, from omega-3 to Biotin, zinc, and vitamin-E. Take a look below at some of these ingredients: 

Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids 

Salmon oil, chicken fat, and flaxseed are some of the most common ingredients that will guarantee a thicker and shinier coat.  

Non-Vegetarian Proteins 

Cats are obligate carnivores, which is another way of saying “we need meat!” Quality proteins like fish and chicken assist in healing skin and fortifying fur.

Zinc and Vitamin-E 

Both of these nutrients, zinc and vitamin-E., enhance the fur beneath the surface aiding the skin in old skin cell removal. Fuzzball dry food does not contain Biotin

 

Should You Avoid Grains and Fillers for Better Skin Health?

Fillers such as corn, soy, and wheat can result in dull skin and coat due to possible allergic reactions and possibly itchiness. It goes without saying that cats didn’t evolve to be roaming in wheat meadows. If your cat is experiencing some tummy troubles or has a skin condition, consider using a limited-ingredient or grain-free formula, and seek advice from your veterinarian. 

Steps to Make Your Cat's Coat Soft and Shiny 

Do you want your kitty's fur to shine? Here’s the purr-scription in just three steps: 

Brushing: Brushing helps seal in essential oils and reduces shedding (not to mention, it is a fantastic way to bond). 

Check water levels: If your cat eats dry food, then having clean, fresh water within reach is a must. If your furry friend is choosy about still water, a cat fountain could help.

Consider adding a supplement: After consulting with your vet, adding an omega-3 supplement could be beneficial for cats dealing with dry skin or thinning fur.

How Long Does It Take to See a Difference in Your Cat’s Coat?

Fur-miracles rarely happen overnight and expecting results in a matter of days can be a recipe for disappointment. After switching to a quality food, most pet owners report noticing improvements to their cat’s coat and skin condition after 4-6 weeks.

Benefits of Dry Food For Cats

Dry cat food can provide multiple health benefits for your feline friend. Apart from its convenience, the crunchy texture aids in plaque removal improving gum health and breath. Also, dry food is simple to portion out which is useful in controlling a cat’s weight. When made with quality ingredients, dry food can provide balanced nutrition and support the energy levels, skin, and coat of your cat. It is important, however, that your feline friend has fresh water available to them at all times to keep them hydrated.