Feline dandruff (seborrhoea) is a common dermatological concern often overlooked due to its superficial appearance.

However, persistent or generalised scaling can indicate underlying systemic, nutritional, or dermatological dysfunction. This article explores the aetiology, diagnostic approach, and integrative management strategies for cat dandruff, including topical barrier repair, nutritional support, and skin care solutions from the MP Labo dermatology range, including Sensiderm® Spray, Sensiderm® Omega, and others.

What Is Feline Dandruff?

Feline dandruff refers to visible flakes of dead skin (scales) within the coat, often noted on the back, flanks, or rump. It can present as:

  • Dry seborrhoea (seborrhoea sicca): Dry, white flakes with dull coat
  • Oily seborrhoea (seborrhoea oleosa): Greasy fur, clumped scales, possible odour
  • While mild dandruff may be incidental, ongoing flaking should prompt further investigation.

Common Causes of Dandruff in Cats

1. Inadequate Grooming
Obese or arthritic cats often have difficulty grooming, particularly in lumbar or sacral regions.

2. Environmental Factors
Low humidity (especially indoors during winter) can lead to transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and dry skin.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies
Low levels of essential fatty acids (EFAs), zinc, or vitamin A can impair skin regeneration .

4. Parasites and Infections

  • Cheyletiella spp. (“walking dandruff”)
  • Dermatophytes (Microsporum canis)
  • Malassezia spp. or secondary bacterial overgrowth

5. Allergic Skin Disease
Flea allergy dermatitis, food allergy, or feline atopy may present with scaling, pruritus, and inflammation .

6. Endocrinopathies
Diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, or Cushing's syndrome can contribute to skin changes and poor coat quality.

Diagnostic Workup

  • Flea combing, skin scrapes, and coat brushings
  • Trichography, cytology, and Wood's lamp examination
  • Fungal culture, skin biopsy, or endocrine testing (if indicated)

Clinical Management: A Multimodal Approach

  • Effective dandruff management combines:
  • Addressing the underlying cause
  • Supporting the skin barrier
  • Modulating inflammation
  • Providing topical and nutritional care

Topical Barrier Support

Sensiderm® Spray – Advanced Skin Barrier Technology: Developed by MP Labo, Sensiderm® Spray offers a science-based approach to restoring the skin's barrier function.

Key Features:

  • Skin Barrier Protect™ technology: dual-phase action
  • Immediate effect: moisturises and soothes using urea, glycerin, shea butter, panthenol and Centella asiatica【2,3†source】
  • Long-term support: algae extracts rich in biologically active silicium to stimulate fibroblasts and collagen
  • Biomimetic lipids: mimic the natural skin lipid layer to improve integrity
  • Fine mist spray for full coat coverage
  • Fragrance-free and cat-friendly

Recommended Use:

  • Following drying treatments or medicated shampoos
  • For cats with recurrent flaking or sensitive skin
  • To support allergic skin disease alongside primary therapy

Nutritional Support for Skin Health

Sensiderm® Omega – Oral Supplement for Skin Integrity:Dry, scaly skin often reflects dietary insufficiencies. Sensiderm® Omega provides:

Active Ingredients:

  • Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) and omega-6 (GLA, LA) for anti-inflammatory action
  • Zinc and biotin to support keratinocyte proliferation and lipid synthesis
  • Vitamins A, D3, and E to promote epithelial repair and antioxidant protection【11,12†source】

Format Benefits:

  • Liquid form with meat aroma
  • Graduated syringe for accurate dosing
  • Cat-friendly and low calorie

Clinical Tip:

Use during recovery or for long-term maintenance in cats with environmental allergies, low-fat diets, or poor coat quality.

Additional Supportive Products

Sensiderm® Balm: For dry, thickened, or crusted areas (e.g. nasal planum, elbows)

  • Centella asiatica, allantoin, acacia extract, and urea for enhanced hydration and protection
  • Proven clinical improvement in a 60-day study with canine hyperkeratosis

Keratoderm® Shampoo: For oily, scaly, or Malassezia-associated dandruff

  • Contains lactic acid (keratolytic), cider vinegar (astringent), and Melaleuca alternifolia (antimicrobial)【13,14†source】
  • Fragrance- and sulphur-free with Skin Barrier Protect™ support

Pyoskin® Wipes

  • Useful for localised microbial overgrowth or secondary infection
  • 3% chlorhexidine, glycerin, and allantoin support antisepsis while protecting skin hydration【15,16†source】

Emerging Skin Support: The Role of PEA

Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endogenous bioactive lipid produced in response to tissue stress or inflammation. Research supports its ability to:

  • Modulate mast cell activation and inflammatory response
  • Promote skin comfort and reduce itching
  • Interact with the endocannabinoid system to restore cutaneous homeostasis

While not a replacement for barrier-focused therapy, PEA-based supplementation may offer an additional layer of support for cats with recurrent or inflammatory dermatoses.

Conclusion

Feline dandruff, while often benign in appearance, may indicate deeper issues requiring clinical intervention. A structured diagnostic and treatment approach—combined with evidence-based topical and oral support—can significantly improve outcomes. MP Labo's dermatology range, including Sensiderm® Spray and Omega, offers practical, pet-friendly options to restore skin health, comfort, and owner satisfaction.

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