The most visible indicator of a pet???s health is their coat. Shiny and soft to touch shows that your pet is well nourished with essential fatty acids. Even though all breeds have different coats, you can always spot a good one. A rough and harsh coat is a sign your pet is not getting the fatty acids they need.
The basic premise of a healthy coat applies both for cats and dogs with the main factors being
- Proper nutrition
- Regular brushing
- Bathing
- Underlying health issues
A balanced diet containing fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6 plus proteins and other minerals will ensure that your pet gets the nutrients they need not only to have a shiny coat but will improve their general health and well-being.
Brushing loose hairs off your pet also removes dead skin and dirt but also helps with distributing natural oils over the body and coat. Some breeds will require more brushing than others. This also helps reduce the amount of hair and fur in the house.
Cats being meticulous groomers barely need a bath, yet older cats may benefit from an occasional scrub as some lose their flexibility over the years. Dogs need bathing more frequently, most owners will give their dogs a bath when they are dirty or when they start to develop a smell. A bath with a thorough scrub will ensure a clean, pleasant smelling and shiny coat dog.
Other health issues can have an impact on a pets coat, stress, illness and disease can cause the coat to become lacklustre. This change in appearance is an indicator that your pet is not at their best, if it is ongoing you should consult your local vet.
The best part of a shiny and healthy coat is that it feels nice to touch and pat, meaning it is highly likely you will spend more time with your pet which is best for the both of you.
