The influence of food on your pet's skin and coat

A shiny, full coat is not only beautiful to look at, it is often a sign that your dog or cat is feeling good. But what if that coat suddenly becomes dull, your pet sheds a lot, or develops bald patches? In many cases, the cause lies in the diet. In this blog, you will discover which nutrients are essential for a healthy skin and coat, what you can do if your pet has complaints and how to cleverly combine nutrition with grooming for the best results.

1. What does the coat say about your animal's health?

The skin and coat are a kind of mirror of internal health. If something is not right there - think nutritional deficiencies, allergies or stress - you often see it first on the outside.

Common signals:

• Dull or greasy coat
• Bald spots or excessive shedding
• Flakes or crusts
• Itching, scratching, biting
• Red skin or inflammation

Some symptoms can also be caused by parasites or hormonal disorders, but in many cases it is simply down to incorrect or one-sided nutrition.

2. Important nutrients for skin and coat

• Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids: These polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential for building cell membranes and help reduce inflammation. They help keep the skin supple and the coat shiny. Often found in oily fish (salmon, sardines), flaxseed oil and fish oil supplements.
• Zinc: Zinc supports the immune system, promotes wound healing and plays a role in protein synthesis. Deficiency can lead to hair loss, flaking and a dull coat. Note: Too much calcium (e.g. from bones) inhibits zinc absorption.
• Biotin (vitamin B8): Biotin is essential for the production of keratin, the building material of hair, skin and nails. With deficiencies, you often see a brittle, brittle coat.
• Proteins: The coat consists largely of protein. Without enough protein, the body cannot properly maintain or renew the hair. Often found in meat, eggs, fish and many types of kibble food 
• Water: Don't forget hydration! Sufficient water supports the removal of waste products and hydrates the skin from within.

3. What if nutrition does not help enough?

Sometimes your pet does get good nutrition, but the skin stays behind. Possible causes:

• Bad recording in the intestines (e.g. due to chronic inflammation or parasites)
• Food allergy or intolerance (e.g. for chicken, beef, cereals)
• Growing older: slower cell renewal, less absorption capacity
• Chronic stress or hormonal fluctuations
• External factors such as cold, rain, drought, fleas, fungi

In cases like this, you can provide additional external support to the skin.

4. Nutrition + skincare: the golden combo

With nutrition, you lay the foundation. But with skin problems, it is smart to work from the outside as well. Think about:

• Care sprays or ointments
• Mild shampoos without irritants
• Microbiological products that restore skin flora

👉 This is true HFL Animal Health with the Remedy+ line difference.

Sample products:

• ByeBugBite: soothes skin irritations and supports natural recovery
• Cerazinc: Zinc formula for skin with scabs, wounds or irritations
• Sweet Itch: Helps with seasonal itching caused by insect bites or pollen

These products are safe, effective and combine well with medical treatments or dietary changes.

5. How to choose the right food for skin and coat?

✔ Check the ingredients list

Choose foods with high-quality meat, omega 3 sources and as few unnecessary fillers as possible.

✔ Observe your animal

• How is the coat 4 weeks after switching?
• Less itching? Less shedding?
• Also pay attention to the stools, which tell a lot about digestion.

✔ In doubt? Ask for advice

Trimmers, vets and pet food specialists can help. Ask a professional who also has an eye for the skin.

Conclusion

Healthy skin and shiny coat do not happen by themselves. The basis lies in good nutrition, complemented by external care. By working inside and out, you support your pet optimally, and it shows. Shine, comfort and less itching make your pet's life (and yours) a lot more pleasant.

Wondering which care is best for your animal? Check out the Remedy+ range on our webshop or ask for advice at a groomer or veterinary practice.

🔗 https://hfl-animalhealth.com/