Who doesn't love playing with their cats? However, cat skin diseases must not be the reason holding you back from giving your fuzzy friends all the cuddles and pets.

Like any other creature to have existed on Earth, skin is the largest organ in cats and serves several important purposes. However, if you see your furry little munchkin scratching and biting itself continuously, it might be an indication that they are in discomfort.

Depending on their breed, cats can be differentiated based on their skin and coat. Most cats have an average to long coat, serving several important purposes. Not only does it make your furry friend appear cute, but your cat's skin also serves a vital role in keeping up their everyday activities, health, and lifestyle.

Primarily, the dermal layer protects your cat against damage from most external agents like debris and chemicals. Furthermore, it plays an important role in sustaining them against harsh environments like heat and cold by regulating the temperature of their body through the process of thermoregulation. In addition, the skin in cats is an important part of their immune system, keeping away potential diseases like infections and bacterial actions.

The skin in cats also acts as a reserve for nutrients including protein (in fact, the hair present on the cat's skin accounts for almost 30% of their everyday protein consumption), collagen fibres, enzymes, and amino acids. Hence, as important as the skin is to your cat's well-being, it is equally urgent to make sure your cat is free from any dermatological diseases.

Parasitic reaction is one of the most common causes of cat skin conditions and discomfort on the skin, which can often take a severe form, leading to hair loss and other conditions. Fleas, too, are a common reason behind skin pain cats suffer from. Fleas are small parasites that often latch onto the skin of cats, causing discomfort and itches.

In addition, cat skin conditions can also arise from injuries, filth, and other cat diseases. If your cat has been bitten by other animals, it is a wise idea to get it checked by a veterinarian. If left unchecked, the bite can lead to skin conditions, which can worsen over time, leading to hair loss, deterioration in general health, and other noticeable dermatological concerns.

You can find out more about the common cat skin conditions, how to identify them and make sure your munchkin gets the healthcare treatment it deserves.

Skin problems in cats

Here are some of the common types of feline skin conditions you must keep an eye out for:

• Acne:

  Acne is one of the most common kitten skin problems that is caused by bacterial growth, as well as by increased production of keratin (a protein found in the skin), which can block the hair follicles. Acne in cats is usually characterised by pimples and blackheads that appear under the lips and the chin. Acne in cats can cause them to scratch the infected area to help with the cat skin pain. Acne in cats can be treated with medicated shampoos, ointments and warm compresses. In addition, Omega-3 can be effectively used to improve skin health and battle acne. Topical antibiotics available as creams and gels can also be applied to help with the swelling and irritation.

• Scabies:

  Cats are often susceptible to skin cat diseases like scabies, which is predominantly caused by mites. Mites that burrow into a cat's skin can infect the skin, causing inflammation, swelling and loss of hair. If it isn't uncomfortable enough, excessive scratching can worsen the condition, leading to scabs and redness. If your cat is seen scratching itself constantly, it is a good idea to plan a visit to the veterinarian to get your furry friend diagnosed, as mites are usually invisible unless viewed through a microscope. Scabies in cats, however, is easily treatable through topical medications and flea control treatments. In addition, it is better to get your cat fresh new bedding and keep it away from other pets if it has been diagnosed with scabies.

• Ear mites

  Ear mites are common cat skin diseases. Though ear mites are often found in cats of all ages, younger cats, especially kittens, are often prone to skin conditions caused by ear mites. If exposed to ear mites, your furry friend will tend to scratch and lick the affected area to relieve itself from the itching and discomfort. However, excessive scratching to areas as sensitive as ears can cause lasting damage, so it is important to get your cat properly treated for ear mites if the suspicion arises. Topical treatments like systemic moxidectin, ivermectin and selamectin have also shown effectiveness against ear mites. Ear mites can also cause inflammation in the ear, often leading to bacterial infections. A veterinarian can suggest cleaning your cat's ears with appropriate cleaning solutions to help the condition.

• Ticks:

  Ticks are a serious skin problem for cats, and can also be caused by fleas. Unless treated appropriately, ticks can take a severe form over time, leading to Lyme disease and babesiosis. Cat ticks are blood-sucking parasites often found in outdoor cats. If your cat has a tendency to go out on an adventure outdoors, it is important to keep an eye out for ticks. Thankfully, cat ticks are easy to spot due to their bigger size. You can easily check your cat for ticks by running your hand through their coat. A tick can be felt as a small bump against the skin of your cat. Ticks in cats can manifest as concerning health problems, so giving your cat appropriate preventive measures will ensure them a fighting chance against ticks. Flea prevention treatments are usually administered through the skin by veterinarians.

• Environmental allergies:

  Environmental allergies are among the most common causes of cat skin diseases. Cats are usually sensitive to contact with several everyday items, which can cause cat skin pain and discomfort. Environmental agents that your cat might be susceptible to can include certain chemicals used in the household, pollen, grass, dust, or even food. Environmental allergies can cause your cat to continuously groom itself to get rid of any foreign particles or help with the skin pain cats experience. While giving your cat a bath can be effective in getting rid of general dirt and filth, observing your cat for signs of discomfort can be helpful in identifying any skin conditions that are bothering them.

• Stress-induced Alopecia:

  Stress-induced Alopecia is an occurrence caused by a sudden change in your furry friend's behavioural patterns, often an indication of emotional or physiological distress in them. Cats are curious creatures, but sudden changes to their immediate environment can cause them significant stress. Stress-induced Alopecia in cats can result in increased shedding, or thinning of the coat in the stomach and back from excessive grooming. You can plan a visit to your vet to get your cat checked, as well as to discuss viable solutions. Usually, catnips and pheromone plug-ins are effective in relieving stress and anxiety, and taking necessary precautions against stressful environments can help treat hair loss.

• Food allergies:

  Food allergies are common reasons behind cat skin problems. Infections and allergies in cats triggered by food and eating disorders are often characterised by irritations around the head, neck and back. Skin problems in cats arising out of food allergies can be linked to certain proteins and carbohydrates present in the cat's diet. Cats require a specific dietary protein to continue with their usual lifestyle. So, to treat your cat for kitten skin 8 caused by food allergies, it is important to identify the component that triggers any food allergy in your cat, and gradually eliminate it from the cat's usual diet.

• Abscess

  An abscess is a skin problem commonly found in outdoor cats, as well as house cats allowed to visit the outdoors. Abscesses are usually caused by physical injuries, as well as bites and scratches from other animals and cats. Cats who have not been neutered are prone to such injuries, which can cause significant discomfort and itching. Furthermore, abscesses caused by injuries leave behind an open wound through which bacteria can enter, causing other diseases and health issues. Open wounds can also get infected by bacterial actions, forming pus-filled wounds that require immediate medical attention. To treat a cat with an abscess, it is important to get professional care from a veterinarian and follow healthcare protocols and medications.

• Fungal Infection:

  Your furry friend is also vulnerable to fungal actions, which might require professional help. Fungal infections are highly contagious and can be spread to humans and other animals, so it is important to ensure appropriate precautions before treating a cat diagnosed with fungal infections. Fungal infections in cats are usually identified through raised red circles that can thicken and form crusts. Fungal infections are accompanied by excessive shedding from the affected area, so it is important to clean and replace your cat's bedding to prevent mould spores from spreading. Fungal infections are best treated by professionals, so remember to consult your veterinarian if you suspect a fungal infection in your cat.

• Endocrine Dermatosis:

  Endocrine Dermatosis is a cat skin infection caused by hormonal imbalances. Cats suffering from endocrine dermatosis often display symptoms like a dry coat, increased hair loss, itching, and dandruff. This skin condition can prove difficult to detect, and may require your veterinarian to run several tests to come to a final diagnosis. Hormonal imbalances that cause endocrine dermatosis in cats can be treated by spaying or neutering the cat, as well as by using topical medications and prescription shampoos.

General signs of cat skin problems

There are several reasons for which your cats have skin diseases, each characterised by individual symptoms. However. Given below are the general signs of cat skin problems that can help you identify and get your furry friend the appropriate treatment:

• Hair loss

  Hair loss and excessive shedding are the most obvious signs of skin problems in cats. Keep an eye out for your feline friend developing a bald patch, and consult healthcare providers if necessary.

• Itchy skin

  Itchy skin, alongside hair loss, is a common sign of cat skin disease. Itchy skin, accompanied by inflammations, can be a potential cause of discomfort for your cat, which can lead to excessive grooming to avoid the skin pain cats face or changes in their behavioural patterns.

• Sores

  sores and scabs can indicate serious skin conditions that require immediate medical attention. Open wounds from sores and scabs run the risk of bacterial contamination and must be treated immediately to avoid any further health concerns.

In addition, rashes, flaky and dry skin, skin tags and lumps are other noticeable signs of skin problems in cats.

Treatment of skin problems

If your cats have skin diseases, here are some home remedies to easily treat them:

• Tea bath

Tea baths have been proven effective against cat skin problems, and are known to alleviate skin irritations and itching. Your feline friend can also enjoy a nice relaxing bath from chamomile, calendula and green tea, popular for their soothing properties. It also helps in curing several types of cat skin issues.

• Apple cider vinegar and water spray

Cats suffering from flaky and itchy skin can be comforted by a thorough spray using a solution containing apple cider vinegar and water. It also helps with skin allergies and rashes.

• Coconut oil

Coconut oil is a popular home remedy for skin problems in cats due to its high content of antibacterial and antifungal properties. It can relieve the impacts of infections, allergies and insect bites.

Serious skin conditions, however, may require professional care and treatment through antibiotics, topical medications and ointments, and more.

How Whiskas products help to prevent skin cat diseases

Whiskas products have grown popular among cat parents due to their high antibacterial and antifungal content that boosts your furry friend's immune system, making them more resistant to not just cat skin infection, but almost all other health issues. Whiskas cat food products are full of digestible protein components that help your little furball grow and shake off any disease-causing bacteria. It is also packed with calcium, phosphorus, antioxidants and other essential vitamins to make sure your cat leads a healthy life and stays in great shape. Whiskas 1+ has been specifically designed for adult cats to give them all the energy to lead a life of adventures and fun. Whiskas wet food gives them all essential nutrients and keeps them hydrated, ensuring them a healthy skin free from rashes, hair loss and other skin cat diseases.