DRY AND FLAKY SKIN CARE OF DOGS, CATS AND HORSES

SOLHEDS Natural Pet Care Instructions for Dogs, Cats, and Horses with Dry and Flaky Skin

Dry and Flaky Skin Care (Dog, Cat, Horse)

Dry and flaky skin in dogs, cats, and horses should be addressed early. The coat and fur can make pet skin care challenging, especially when large areas of skin need attention.
Brush away flakes and keep the skin clean to ensure the natural pet care products spread evenly.

Using Derma9 Luxury Shine & Care Spray, you can treat flaky skin effectively. The spray contains moisturizing ingredients and essential fatty acids that absorb quickly into the skin. Brush against the coat or lift the hair/manes, spray Derma9 directly onto the skin, and massage gently. This strengthens the skin barrier while also enhancing coat health, leaving a beautiful shine and protective layer against dirt.

Ensure pets receive a balanced diet with good essential fatty acids for overall healthy skin and coat.

 

Gentle washing of dogs, cats, and horses with dry and flaky skin

The need for washing depends on the underlying cause of the flaky skin. Frequent washing may be necessary to remove external issues on the skin.
When selecting a shampoo, avoid products that strip natural fatty acids that protect the skin and coat. Anionic surfactants, such as sulfate-based shampoos, dry out the skin and worsen flakiness.

For washing pets with dry and flaky skin, Derma4 Gentle Shampoo is ideal. Its non-ionic and neutral cleansing agents gently clean without drying the skin. Derma4 also contains soothing and moisturizing ingredients, leaving the coat with shine and a subtle, dirt-repellent finish.

During washing, Derma15 Lusterious Conditioner moisturizes and nourishes the skin. Massage the conditioner into the skin for maximum hydration and healthy coat care.

For more detailed guidance on dog, cat, and horse skin and coat washing, see our washing section.

Winter and Flaky Skin (Horse, Dog, Cat)

Flaky skin problems often worsen in winter as the skin barrier weakens. Horses may show flakiness in the mane and tail. Dogs and cats are also prone to dry winter skin, often resulting in visible flakes.
Good care includes brushing off flakes and spraying Derma9 Luxury shine&care directly on the skin, followed by gentle massage.

Why Do Dogs, Cats, or Horses Develop Flaky Skin?

Flaky skin can result from various factors, often reflecting overall pet wellness. Causes may include:

  • Allergies
  • Insufficient essential fatty acids in the diet
  • Dry indoor air
  • Cold winter temperatures
  • Overly aggressive washing
  • Unsuitable grooming products

Fatty acids help keep the skin elastic and resistant to external stress. Not all pets absorb enough fatty acids naturally, making external skin care essential to support the skin barrier.
Dry or atopic skin allows moisture to evaporate, increasing flakiness and potential itching.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals in Skin Care
Shampoos with anionic, sulfate-based detergents strip protective natural fatty acids from skin and coat. Many coat care products also contain harmful chemicals and excess silicone, which can accumulate on the skin and worsen the condition.
Pet care products should not contain chemical warning labels, and all ingredients, including preservatives, should be fully visible. Learn more about pet product safety here.

For additional washing guidance, see our washing section.

SOLHEDS natural Skin and Coat Care Products for Dogs, Cats, and Horses are formulated to minimize chemical load on the skin, starting with preservatives.
These natural Derma products are ideal for horses, dogs and cats with dry and flaky skin.
Find more guidance on various skin and coat problems in our care instructions.