Cold, dry weather can cause your pet’s skin and coat to lose luster

The cold-weather months can wreak havoc on your pet’s skin and fur. Winter’s dry, cold air — combined with the dry heat in our homes — can cause chapped and itchy skin, which can make your pet’s coat look dull and brittle.

That’s why, as the temperatures continue to drop, it’s important to pay attention to any changes in your pet’s coat and to take steps to ensure it is looking its best.

Here’s how to keep your pet’s skin and coat healthy this winter.

Use a moisturizing shampoo

Regular shampoos can cause your pet’s skin to become even drier during the winter months. Instead, it would be best to opt for a moisturizing shampoo, such as Nootie Warm Vanilla Cookie Moisturizing Formula Dog Shampoo. For cats (and dogs), try Earthbath 2-in-1 Conditioning Shampoo with a Mango Tango scent.

It’s also a good idea to limit baths during the winter months because they can make your dog or cat’s skin dry. All-purpose pet wipes, such as those from Groom Genie, are an excellent option for wiping away dirt and mud.

And for chapped paws, a skin moisturizer such as Bag Balm from Vermont’s, available at Premier Pet Supply, will provide relief for dry, cracked skin.

Watch your pet’s diet

You are what you eat — and the same can be said for our pets. A healthy diet will help to keep your pet’s skin and coat nourished and shiny this winter.

Look for a complete and well-balanced pet food, such as Fromm Four-Star Nutritionals Trout and Whitefish dog food or Nutro Wholesome Essentials Salmon and Brown Rice Recipe cat food. Also, consider giving your pet a nutritional supplement formulated especially for his skin and coat. Nootie Progility Advanced Skin and Coat Support with Probiotics is a great supplement for dogs.

And don’t forget to keep your pet hydrated — pets burn more energy trying to stay warm during the winter, so it’s easy for them to become dehydrated. Always keep your pet’s bowl filled with water — and if your dog spends time outdoors during the winter, use a plastic bowl, so his tongue doesn’t stick to it.

Brush your pet regularly

Regular brushing can stimulate your pet’s hair follicles, which will release the natural oils in his skin. Brushing your pet also helps to loosen and remove dead, dry patches of skin.

Brush your pet a few times a week using a slicker brush such as one from Bamboo Groom. For a smaller cat-sized version, the Safari Flexible Slicker Cat Brush is a great option.

Talk to your vet

Although cold weather is one reason your dog’s skin and coat may not be looking their best, other conditions also can be the cause.

Parasites and underlying health issues can cause your pet’s skin to itch and his coat to look dull or thin. If you notice that your pet is scratching a lot — or just looks uncomfortable — talk to your pet to rule out any serious health issues.

To learn more about the ways to keep your pet’s coat healthy this winter, visit premierpetsupply.com.