Feeding Your Pet for Healthy Skin and Hair

In order to protect the body, your pet's skin needs proper care and nutrition. Likewise, the formulation for a healthy haircoat includes ample protein, vitamins, fats, and minerals. Without the proper amounts of these nutrients, the skin can become easily damaged, dry, and flaky; and the hair can become brittle and fall out.

Conditions such as allergies, parasites, and endocrine disorders can cause skin conditions in cats and dogs. In certain breeds, genetic abnormalities in skin and normal hair growth can occur, requiring an even greater amount of minerals and vitamins to control.

What Should Be in a Healthy Skin Diet?

Ample amounts of animal-source protein are necessary for the growth of healthy hair in dogs and cats. Essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in a proper ratio are also required for healthy skin and hair development. Important vitamins include B vitamins, such as biotin and riboflavin, as well as vitamin A, E, and D. Meanwhile, minerals critical for skin and hair include zinc and copper.

What Do These Ingredients Do For Your Pet?

The B vitamin biotin works to help the body use protein, while riboflavin (vitamin B2) metabolizes fat and protein. Vitamin A is required for the formation and repair of normal, healthy skin cells, and vitamin E protects these cells from damage as an antioxidant. Lastly, vitamin C repairs skin and helps the body heal.

Copper and zinc are two minerals that also benefit the body greatly. Copper is needed for the creation of pigment in the skin and hair, essentially giving your pet's hair and skin color. While zinc is needed to metabolize fats and proteins.

Providing a balanced diet with proper ratios of vitamins and minerals, as well as fresh water, is the best way to ensure your animal has healthy skin and hair.