Hair health for cats and dogs

Hair health for cats and dogs

February, which is just two days away, calls is the last few weeks of summer until December, and as we get closer and closer to 15 degree temps, your pet’s coat might start… changing. It may become rougher, it may shed way more (or less!), it may get more smelly. Unlike human hair which we really just use to make ourselves look nice, right?, your pet’s coat is fundamental to regulating their temperature, managing the effects of the sun, assisting in sensory investigations, protecting their skin from injury and preventing any rash or infection on their delicate skin. Because they're born with their coats, we think they'll always exist, the best they can be and we don't consider coat health the way we do brain health, joint health, weight management and more. In reality, just like human hair, it requires care. To keep your pet warm year round, protected from the sun year-round and looking their best (and feeling their softest for pats), follow these few tips to keep their coat soft, lush and healthy. 

The first thing to know is that skin health and coat health go hand-in-hand. These tips relate to both managing skin and the actual hair. The most important thing you should be aware of is the needs of the breed. Some breeds will need regular brushing and haircuts to protect their coats from tangling, pulling or getting too heavy. Some breeds that are sensitive to skin irritation or that are much more adventurous outside of the house may need to be washed more regularly. Some breeds that are inclined to allergies which can present as itching, bumps or rashes could require an external management cream or oil. Some breeds will require less maintenance and the introduction of too much soap, cream or manipulation can actually irritate their skin.

Outside of the needs of specific breeds, regular grooming will disperse the oils through the pet’s fur from their skin, similar to the way human being brush their hair. This will keep skin hydrated, reduce oiliness of their coat and remove potential irritants. If your pet is shedding in preparation for the changing season, brushing will help prevent hair being released all over the house as well as your pet feeling itchy or frustrated by loose hairs, or hairs poking their skin. 

Secondly, a balanced diet with a lot of healthy fats, hydration and protein is vital for skin and coat health. Omega-3 and Omega-6 are important fatty acids which aid the body in maintaining hydration and regulating oil production. Omega fatty acids are found in plant matter but are better processed in an animal’s body through a meat source, which is why our food packs also contain fatty acids from fish (sardines, tuna, swordfish) and plant products.

Other parts of our food packs, including hydration from seasonal vegetables and organic raw meats, carbohydrates and proteins for energy and regeneration.  In the same way a balanced diet is important for heart health, brain health and joint health, skin and coat health can be impacted by food. 

Even with regular grooming and a good diet, your pet's skin and coat could still be impacted by diseases such as alopecia, arthritis, digestive problems, fleas, ticks and asthma. If symptoms of these problems are occurring, such as the animal chewing or scratching itself, excessive shedding, rubbing against walls, the floor or furniture, a vet can identify the issue and prescribe something to help improve your animal’s quality of life, including the shine of their coat.

By doing all of these things (keeping up with grooming properly, feeding them well, washing them) you can protect their skin and coat health, reducing daily stress and giving them a better quality of life. 

You can read more about the benefits of our food packs for your furry friends in the product descriptions on our website, and order online for delivery or pick up. You could also pop in-store at Belmondos Organic Market to check out what's on offer.

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