Cat’s fur feel greasy – Is it serious?

If you’re a cat owner, you are more than familiar with cats’ fastidious grooming habits. In fact, it may come as no surprise to hear that cats can spend most of the time in their day grooming! This meticulousness is one of the reasons why cats’ coats always look so shiny and lustrous, which is why changes in how the coat looks and feels should always be a reason for concern.

If you notice that your cat’s hair is greasy with oily skin, talk to your veterinarian as there is likely to be something behind this.

Sebum production in cats

Throughout their body, cats have sebaceous glands that produce a natural oily substance, also known as sebum. However, these glands are not distributed evenly in the skin, with larger numbers being found on the face, chin, neck, feet, rump and tail.

This oily secretion acts as part of the skin’s protective function, keeping it supple and hydrated. It also has an important role in feline communication, as cats use it alongside pheromones to mark their territory by rubbing on objects and people and leaving behind their personal scent.

So, when does this natural oil become a problem?

A greasy skin and coat usually result from an imbalance in the skin caused by irritation or underlying health issues. This irritation can be as simple as a flea infestation, more complex skin conditions, or even systemic diseases.

As a part of the skin’s protective response, the sebaceous glands increase the production of oil (sebum), thus leaving your cat’s skin and coat greasy. Vets usually call this oily seborrhea or seborrhea oleosa.

Causes of oily skin in cats can be divided into three major groups:

Oily skin due to reduced grooming

Sometimes, dull to oily skin can present not as a result of a skin condition or a condition that affects the skin but as a consequence of a problem elsewhere in the body. This is the case with any health condition that impairs cats’ ability to groom themselves, which include:

In any case, these conditions require medical attention to alleviate pain or reduce body weight.  

Oily skin secondary to other disorders

Oily seborrhea, apart from reduced grooming origin is not a common presentation in cats. Conditions leading to greasy coat are mostly not skin conditions: 

Congenital and inherited diseases

These conditions are pretty rare. Some cat breeds, such as Persian, Himalayan and Exotic Shorthaired cats, are known to suffer from primary disorders with no underlying cause, namely primary idiopathic seborrhea and idiopathic facial dermatitis, which can lead to oily skin and coat. These are believed to have an inherited component, with skin problems manifesting early in life.

To an animal that dedicates such a big part of his time to make sure that his coat is in tip-top shape, we can only imagine how stressful it must be to have it oily and malodorous. Apart from finding and treating the cause when possible, you can improve your cat’s coat appearance and bring comfort to your cat with general measures.

Apply topical products to regulate sebum production

Anti-seborrheic topicals are intended to regulate sebum production and reduce unpleasant odors linked to excess sebum. Cats with greasy skin need their skin to be degreased while keeping the correct skin hydration. The choice of the product is major importance as some ingredients or excess removal of grease can damage the epidermis and alter skin hydration. DOUXO® S3 SEB Shampoo and Mousse have seboregulating properties, helps control dandruff and odor by normalizing sebum production. They also contain hydrating and moisturizing ingredients such as Ophytrium®, which help support the skin’s physical barrier for supple, hydrated skin, help support the microbial flora for healthy skin, and help soothe irritated skin.

Ensure a good grooming regimen

If your cat is incapable of adequately grooming himself, consider giving him a hand. This is one of the reasons why establishing a home grooming routine early on in life is so important, as cats who are not used to being groomed may become fussy if they eventually need help taking care of their coat.

Feed a good quality diet

Providing your cat with a good, balanced diet is also paramount to skin and coat health. Some nutrients, vitamins and minerals are more involved in the skin’s natural process of regeneration, such as essential fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin A, for example, and your veterinarian may recommend supplementation depending on your cat’s diet and other lifestyle and individual factors.

How to prevent greasy skin and hair?

Did you know that being an attentive cat owner is one of the most important factors for a timely diagnosis?

It’s true! Cat owners who are familiar with their cat’s looks, habits, routines and behavior are an invaluable help in the diagnostic process and even in preventing further complications.

As soon as you notice something different on your cat’s skin, be it a change in texture, bald patches of skin, a skin lesion or even odd behavior, don't hesitate to discuss this with your veterinarian.

We recommend paying extra attention to older cats, who are more likely to be affected by mobility issues that may hinder them from grooming, and to suffer from systemic conditions, such as chronic kidney disease and hyperthyroidism, that may manifest in changes in their coat as well.