The effects of winter weather are both fun and flaky. Fun, because of all the merry festivities, hot coffee dates, the feeling of being wrapped in layers, and the flickering fireplaces that add to the wintery vibes. Why flaky is because of the harshness of the cold winds, and the low humidity that disrupts the pH balance of our skin, turning it itchy, dry, and flaky. Whether we are at home or outside, there is no way to escape these without proper care and protection. Our body needs to maintain a balance of chemicals, bacteria, and moisture to stay soft, supple, and comfortable. This is the case with our fur babies too. They too face similar issues, and their skin needs extra protection to keep winter-related skin ailments away. In this post, we are going to address how we can take care of our paw babies’ beautiful coats during the winter season.
The Bath & Grooming Process
Dandruff is one of the most common conditions that trouble our furries whenever there is a shift in climatic conditions. Dandruff is nothing but dead skin cells that appear on the surface of the scalp and skin. When the skin produces excessive sebum, the dead skin leaves patchy layers on the skin. This issue becomes multi-fold during the winter season. Hence, it is better to get the furry groomed with premium quality pet grooming products apt for winter months.
If you are going with dog grooming at home, then please ensure that the right kind of products suited for your fur baby’s skin, preferably prescribed by a vet dermatologist, is used. If your canine’s skin is already irritated, then the quickest remedy is an oatmeal bath or a soothing medicated shampoo. It is recommended that you see a vet dermatologist if you come across any such issue instead of resorting to self-prescribed treatment and products. A vet dermatologist would assess your furry’s coat and its condition, and basis that, they would prescribe the right topical treatment and appropriate medication if needed.
As a habit, you can use a soft brush on your furry’s coat to stimulate the natural oil glands. Soft brushing also removes any dead skin cells and loose hair strands from the surface thereby facilitating skin repair.
Health and Nutrition Supplements for the Skin
Diet plays an important role in maintaining the health of our skin and scalp, irrespective of the season. During winter, it is important for them to have a diet with adequate fatty acids to maintain the coat’s health. If you also want to watch your fur baby’s weight, then you can add Omega-3 or Omega-6 acids to their diet in the form of supplements. Be sure to consult with the pet’s vet about the right kind of diet and supplements to put them on. You can even avail online vet consultation for this.
Environmental Factors
Loss of humidity in the winter air is the cause of concern for the health of our furries as it strips away their pH balance. While we cannot control the external environment, we can make indoor spaces more habitable for our pets by keeping indoor air humidifiers. Make sure to keep the vents open to release trapped allergens in the air. Avoid the use of air deodorizers and scents though as these contain chemicals that can be toxic to our and our fur babies’ health.
Other Reasons That May Lead to Skin Problems in Furries
Apart from seasonal changes, the winter season, there are various factors that can lead to skin problems in our furries such as moulds, dust mites, etc. These allergens should be curbed and kept in check. Other reasons for a skin issue may be related to kidney or liver problems, nutritional imbalances, etc. Persistent scratching can be a sign of a potential skin ailment, the early detection of which is important to prevent the infection from becoming severe.
FAQs
1. Why does my pet develop dandruff in winter?
Dandruff in pets is often caused by dry air, low humidity, and reduced bathing frequency during winter. Dead skin cells build up, especially when the coat isn’t groomed regularly or properly moisturized.
2. How can I treat my pet’s dry or flaky skin in winter?
Start with gentle brushing to remove loose flakes and use a vet-recommended moisturizing shampoo like oatmeal or medicated formulas. Always consult a vet dermatologist before applying any treatment.
3. Do pets need nutritional supplements for skin health in winter?
Yes. Supplements like Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids help support healthy skin and coat. Ask your vet about adding these to your pet’s diet during the colder months.
4. Can indoor air affect my pet’s skin in winter?
Absolutely. Dry, heated indoor air can strip moisture from your pet’s skin. Use a humidifier to maintain indoor air quality, and avoid scented sprays or deodorizers that might irritate sensitive skin.
5. What other causes lead to skin issues besides winter dryness?
Skin conditions may also stem from allergens like mold, dust mites, or underlying health problems such as kidney or liver disorders. Persistent scratching should be evaluated by a vet for early diagnosis.
Conclusion
Winter can be just as harsh for your pets as it is for you. From dry skin and dandruff to irritation caused by allergens and low humidity, your fur baby needs extra care during the colder months. Grooming with the right products, proper brushing, a balanced diet with skin-supporting supplements, and a controlled indoor environment all go a long way in ensuring their comfort. If you notice excessive scratching or flaky skin, consult a vet dermatologist before beginning treatment. For high-quality grooming products or to schedule a premium grooming session, Zigly’s expert care team is just a call away.
It is important to consult a vet before beginning any treatment or resorting to any change in grooming methods. For pet home grooming products, you can check out Zigly’s online pet store. For a premium grooming experience, book a grooming appointment with the Zigly team.
