Here is how proper nutrition affects your pet’s coat

The appearance of your pet’s coat says a lot about the health of the animal. A healthy coat depends on nutrition in addition to coat care. We will explain which nutrients are vital and why nutrition is so important for your pet’s coat.

Nutrition and your pet’s coat

Your dog or cat probably has millions of hairs (depending on the breed). Almost every inch of its skin is covered with hair. The appearance of your pet is largely determined by its coat. Not only that, it also provides an indication of its health. Bald spots, a dull coat and tangles all speak to your pet’s health. Hair receives nutrients from the body; it is part of the skin which means the coat is part of your pet’s largest organ. With that in mind, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that nutrition affects your pet’s coat.

What nutrients are beneficial for the coat

Your pet’s coat consists of 95 percent proteins, a vital nutrient for a beautiful and lush coat! Proteins are found in animal-based products such as meat and fish. All dogs and cats need proteins; they also play a crucial role in the immune system. In addition, fats are important for your pet’s coat. This includes Omega 3 and Omega 6. These fats are found in fatty fish such as salmon, oil and plant-based fats such as margarine. A shortage of fats may lead to a deficit in vitamins A, D, E and K which will, in turn, cause damage to the coat and/or skin. All essential nutrients are processed into complete food solutions. Keep this in mind when purchasing pet food.

Wet food vs kibble

Wet food, canned food and kibble are beneficial for the coat as long as they contain the right nutrients. Canned food has the added benefit of containing a lot of water. When feeding your pet kibble, make sure it always has access to enough drinking water. Water is vital to your dog’s or cat’s health.

Coat problems caused by allergies

Coat problems such as bald spots, a lot of itching and excessive licking, are often ascribed to external problems or a flea or worm infection. But these symptoms can also emerge as a result of food allergy or intolerance. Animals that are sensitive to certain substances in the food may respond with skin problems. Allergies can be caused by anything and may be difficult to pinpoint. Switching to different food allows you to test whether an allergy is being caused by your pet’s current food.

If you suspect a grain or gluten allergy, click here to read all about grain and gluten-free food.

Organic pet food for a healthy coat

Your pet may be responding to chemical antioxidants, artificial aromas, colourants and flavours, refined sugars and genetically modified ingredients. Opt for Yarrah’s pet food to make sure these substances aren’t affecting your pet. All of Yarrah’s organic pet food is completely free of artificial additives. Even the animals processed in the food had an organic diet that was kept completely pesticide-free. It may contribute to avoiding skin and coat problems and will give your pet a shiny coat.