Category: Skin & coat health

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Dog with dry skin

dog with dry skin

If you have a dog with dry skin, there could be many reasons for this. As a pet owner it’s never nice to see your dog suffering.

Dry skin can be easier to spot on dogs with short hair compared to longer coated dogs. If you part the coat you may be able to see flakes of skin. Dry skin can lead to an itchy dog and can become worse at certain times of the year.

A dog with dry skin may scratch, lick or bite themselves – sometimes to the point of causing injury. Other symptoms can include hair loss from excessive scratching or skin that appears dry, flaky, scaly or otherwise irritated.

Why do dogs get dry skin?

Dehydration
If your dog has mild dehydration, this can show as dry skin. If you feed your dog dry food, this automatically absorbs lots of moisture from the body and may lead to your dog drinking more water.

Allergies
Allergies are a common reason for dry skin on dogs. These can be more apparent in springtime, and the allergic response by the body can cause sensitivity in the skin and itching.

Poor diet
A low-quality diet means that your dog may not be receiving the essential nutrients that make for healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Weather
Cold or windy weather – especially when combined with the dryness caused by indoor heating systems – can really take its toll on your dog’s skin. As seasons change you may also seem other symptoms such as itching and flaking.

Defective moisture barrier
The skin has a moisture barrier (made up of skin cells, proteins and fats) that helps to retain moisture in the skin. Sometimes this becomes compromised or is just not as good in some dogs as others and can cause dry skin.

How to support your dog’s dry skin

Plenty of water
To help replenish the moisture in your dog’s dry skin, be sure to provide plenty of fresh, clean water daily.

Diet
Giving your dog a high-quality diet is essential to support their skin health. Often pets are unwittingly fed an unnatural diet, which is too high in Omega-6 fatty acids derived from high levels of cereals and vegetable proteins. Supplementing their diet with Omega-3 for dogs can help to counteract the Omega-6 imbalance and will help to support their skin and coat health.

Grooming
Regularly brushing your dog’s coat will help to distribute natural skin oils and keep their coat shiny. Try not to groom them more often than once a week as this could lead to irritation on the skin.

Protect from cold weather
Limit the amount of time your dog spends out in cold weather and use a moisturising shampoo to help relieve their dry skin. Don’t over bathe your dog as this could worsen their dry skin. Be sure to only use animal specific shampoos.

Omega-3s
Supplement your dog’s diet with Omega-3s. As well as supporting healthy skin and coat, Omega-3s appear to improve skin barrier function, sealing the moisture and keeping out irritants.

If you have a dog with dry skin, ask your vet about Nutramega which contains highly refined Omega-3 fish oil from ocean sardines.

Nutramega has been specially formulated to support an animal’s natural systems that control inflammation. The high-strength formula of Omega-3s (EPA and DHA) fatty acids combined with d-biotin and Vitamin E work synergistically to aid and sooth the skin.

 

 

 

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Common signs of sensitive skin in pets

Sensitive skin in pets

Sensitive skin in pets is one of the most common reasons a pet owner will take their dog or cat to visit the vet.

In dogs, there are certain breeds that may need more support for their skin and coat than others, we share some common signs your pet has sensitive skin to help recognise the symptoms.

In dogs, it is particularly common for Terriers, Setters, Retrievers, Spaniels and Dalmatians to visit the vet with a need to support a healthy skin and coat.

Your pet’s skin has a multitude of jobs to do, so it’s important to understand the common signs of sensitive skin and keep it in good condition. Your pet may need skin and coat support for a number of reasons, including things such as fleas, food allergies and an acute fatty balance.

Common signs of sensitive skin in pets could include:

  • Thin or balding patches
  • A dull or greasy coat
  • Persistent itching and scratching
  • Dry or flaky skin
  • Hair loss or moulting
  • Constant grooming or licking
  • Redness and inflammation
  • Scabs and crusts on the skin

Your pet may have all year round symptoms, which could mean that they are allergic to something in your home, however there are allergic reactions that are seasonal. Outdoor seasonal allergens can include, ragweed, grasses and pollens.

Speak to your vet about any of the above and ask them for more information on additional ways to maintain the health of your pet. Your vet is best placed to monitor your pet’s health and can offer advice depending on your pet’s health needs.

Nutramega has a unique formula specifically designed to soothe, calm and reduce itching and scratching naturally. Ask your vet for more information on ways to help your pet with their skin and coat and how Nutramega can help to maintain healthy skin and coat in dogs or cats.

 

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Biotin for dogs and cats

biotin for dogs and cats

Biotin for dogs and cats is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat and nails.

Biotin supplements can aid a dog with dry skin, which is a common reason for pet owners to take their dog or cat to visit the vets. Biotin is a water-soluble B vitamin also called vitamin B and formally known, as vitamin H, which your dog cannot manufacture themselves. Biotin is one of the most important nutrients in the body, it maintains healthy connective tissue, which holds the body together. It is essential for the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, as well as for cell formation and assists with the metabolism of proteins.

Biotin plays a large role in maintaining healthy skin and hair, as well as playing an important role in growth, digestion, muscle formation and in enabling the body to use glucose as an energy source. D-biotin synthesises fatty acids and is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat and nails.

Key benefits of biotin for dogs and cats

  • Healthy skin
  • Liver and nervous system health
  • Strengthens nails
  • Brain health
  • Boosts energy & mood.

The best biotin for dogs

Pet supplements containing biotin are regularly used to support and maintain skin and coat health in dogs and cats. They are commonly combined with key ingredients such as Omega-3 for dogs and cats, which work in the skin to aid the body’s own natural anti-inflammatory processes. d-biotin is a key ingredient for Nutramega.

Nutramega contains Omega 3s EPA and DHA fatty acids from fish oil and combined with d-biotin and vitamin E works synergistically to sooth dry, flaky skin and reduce itching and scratching. Nutramega provides high strength nutritional support for maintaining healthy skin and a glossy coat by supporting the animal’s natural systems that control inflammation.

If you are looking for a biotin for dogs and cats supplement or a supplement for itchy dogs, then Nutramega is recommended by vets throughout the UK.

 

 

 

 

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What is EPA and DHA?

EPA and DHA

EPA and DHA are Omega-3 fatty acids that are important to support healthy skin and a glossy coat in dogs and cats.

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) are both Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in cold water fish. Omega-3 fatty acids are an essential part of normal metabolism, but they cannot be produced naturally in the body so have to be consumed through diet or supplementation.

EPA and DHA are highly unsaturated fats due to them only containing six and five double bonds on their structural chains. Being unsaturated is an advantage as it makes it easier for the body to break down and utilise the fatty acids.

Both EPA and DHA are important nutrients and could be taken to maintain healthy brain function. DHA is a building block of tissue in the brain and retina of the eye. It helps with forming neural transmitters, such as phosphatidylserine, which is important for brain function.

They are particularly important to counteract Omega 6 imbalance. Often pets are unwittingly fed an unnatural diet which is too high in Omega 6 fatty acids derived from high levels of cereals and vegetable proteins. An acute excess of Omega 6s and/or a shortage of Omega 3 will predispose dry, flaky and itchy skin.

What are the benefits?

There are a number of benefits to supplementing your pet’s diet with EPA and DHA fatty acids, which include:

Skin and coat health – Omega-3 for dogs and cats work in the skin to aid the body’s own natural anti-inflammatory processes. EPA and DHA are the precursors for newly discovered lipids called Resolvins and Protectins, which support the natural systems that control inflammation.

Cognitive function – Omega-3, especially from DHA has been shown to aid the structure and function of brain cells by promoting the natural synthesis of synaptic membranes and dendritic spines, thereby aiding neurotransmission, Omega-3 DHA supplementation plays an indispensable role in naturally supporting neuronal membranes in the aged brains.

Heart health – Omega-3 fatty acids can help to support and maintain a healthy heart. Omega-3 is helpful for reducing levels of bad cholesterol while raising heart-healthy cholesterol, Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to increase weight loss in overweight dogs.

Joint health – Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce the symptoms of joint problems, such as stiffness, tenderness, swelling and discomfort. One of its main benefits is the anti-inflammatory properties which can aid joint pain.

EPA and DHA pet supplements

If you’re looking for Omega-3 for dogs with high quality fatty acids, EPA and DHA, then Nutramega is highly recommended by vets throughout the UK for nutritional support for healthy skin and a glossy coat.  Nutramega contains highly refined Omega-3 fish oil from sardines. The fish oil is put through an exclusive six step manufacturing process to extract the beneficial Omega 3 EPA and DHA from the oil and refining them to the highest quality standards. Refining the oil also removes heavy metals and other undesirable pollutants to ensure maximum purity.

Nutramind also contains highly refined Omega-3s and is a natural aid for supporting brain health and cognitive function in dogs and cats. Nutramind contains Omega-3 and other key ingredients such as Phosphatidylserine and Ginkgo Biloba Extract for supporting cognitive function in ageing pets whilst benefiting younger pets in training and learning.

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Do you have an itchy dog?

itchy dog

An itchy dog is a common reason for owners to visit the vets. It could be stressful to see your dog uncomfortable and constantly itching, which can be more prevalent in summer months, or during the warmer weather.

If you find yourself asking the question, why my dog is itchy, we have highlighted the common signs, reasons and tips to help reduce the itch.

Common signs of an itchy dog include:

  • They may nibble at their skin
  • Licking at their paws
  • They could rub their face or body on furniture
  • They may have bald patches, red skin or scabs

Reasons for itchy skin on dogs

Dogs with dry skin could continually itch and cause stress for their owners. As an owner you want to understand the cause of your pet’s dry, itchy skin. There are a number of factors that can cause your dog to itch. We highlight some of the most common reasons below:

Allergies

All year round allergens include household dust mites, household chemicals, air fresheners and washing powder, which can cause your dog to itch. However, allergens such as pollen and grass are prevalent at certain times of the year. During warmer months in the summer, when your dog spends more time outside could be when you notice your dog itching more than usual.

Diet

Another reason for your dog’s itchy skin could be their diet. Dog food allergies, such as wheat, beef and soya are responsible for a significant number of cases of skin allergies in dogs. Often dogs unwittingly receive an unnatural diet, which is too high in Omega-6 fatty acids derived from high levels of cereals and vegetable proteins.  Special Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA from refined fish oil are particularly important to counteract the Omega-6 imbalance.

Pests

Fleas and mites are a common cause of itchy skin on dogs. Even the cleanest of dogs can pick up fleas, so it’s important to keep up-to-date with treatment to help keep them at bay. This not only includes treating your pet but also areas in your home, such as furnishing and dog bedding.

itchy dog

Itchy dog skin relief – what can you do?

There are a number of things you can do to help reduce the itch and help your dog to feel more comfortable. These include:

Regular grooming

This will help to remove loose hairs, keep your dog’s coat free from dirt and distribute natural skin oils, which help to make their coat shiny. Try not to groom them more than once a week, as this could lead to irritation on the skin.

Don’t over bathe your dog

This can lead to dry and sensitive skin. Be sure to only use animal specific shampoos, as human shampoo could irritate their skin.

Protect your dog from the sun

Like humans, overexposure to the sun is bad for your pet’s skin. Dogs with light skin and short or thin hair are more susceptible to sensitive skin caused from the sun. Try to limit the amount of time your dog spends in the sun and watch for signs of burning.

Food

Be sure to feed your dog a good quality diet. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, oils and vitamins can support healthy skin.

Parasite control

One of the most common causes of skin complaints is parasites and fleas. Prevention is always the best treatment for flea control. Be sure to treat you dog, consult your vet for the best product to treat your pet.

Fluids

A constant supply of water is important to keep your pet cool and hydrated, like us, your dog requires water to maintain healthy skin.

Reduce stress

Stress in dogs and cats can lead to over grooming. Understand what is causing your pet to become stressed and try to reduce this, if possible.

Keep your home and their bed clean

Regularly clean, provide fresh bedding and reduce dust in your home. Hoovering on a regular basis, at least twice a week will help to get rid of any excess dust.

Use supplements for itchy dogs and cats

Using a natural supplement for your itchy dog will help to calm their sensitive skin. Nutramega contains high quality Omega-3 fatty acids, biotin and Vitamin E, which naturally calm sensitive skin, soothe dry, flaky skin and reduce itching and scratching.

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Top tips for managing healthy skin and coat in pets

managing healthy skin and coat in pets

Managing healthy skin and coat in pets is one of the most common reasons a pet owner will take their dog or cat to visit the vet.

In dogs, it is particularly common for Terriers, Setters, Retrievers, Spaniels and Dalmatians to visit the vet with a need to support for managing healthy skin and coat in pets.

As a pet owner you will want to help to calm your pet’s sensitive, dry flaky skin and look for a product that will soothe and reduce the itching to help make your pet more comfortable. The causes and irritation fall into several categories and to complicate matters, you dog or cat could be affected by more than one cause. These can include fleas, food allergies and an acute fatty acid imbalance.

Common signs that your pet may need support for their skin and coat could include:
•    Your pet may be moulting more than usual.
•    You might notice that they have thin or balding patches.
•    They could develop dry or flaky skin.
•    Their coat may appear dull or greasy.

Your pet may have all year round symptoms, which could mean that they are allergic to something in your home, however there are allergic reactions that are seasonal. Outdoor seasonal allergens can include, ragweed, grasses and pollens.

A healthy coat should be shiny but not greasy and will be soft and quite smooth. An unhealthy coat on a dog will be dry and brittle and could also be greasy with a dusty appearance. There could also be a few bald spots and an unpleasant smell.

Persistent itching is not only stressful for your pet, but can also cause distress to you as their owner. To help here are our top tips for managing healthy skin and coat in pets:

Regular grooming

This will help to remove loose hairs, keep your pet’s coat free from dirt and distribute natural skin oils, which help to make their coat shiny. Try not to groom them more than once a week, as this could lead to irritation on the skin.

Don’t over bathe your pet

This can lead to a dog with dry skin. Be sure to only use animal specific shampoos, as human shampoo could irritate your pet’s sensitive skin.

Protect your pet from the sun

Like humans, overexposure to the sun is bad for your pet’s skin. Pets with light skin and short or thin hair, such as white cats are more susceptible to sensitive skin caused from the sun. Try to limit the amount of time your pet spends in the sun and watch for signs of burning. If your cat spends a lot of time outdoors, there are sunscreens available for pets.

Food

Be sure to feed your pet a good quality diet. Foods rich in fatty acids, oils and vitamins can support healthy skin.

Parasite control

One of the most common causes of skin complaints is parasites and fleas. Prevention is always the best treatment for flea control. Be sure to treat all pets, indoor and outdoor, as outdoor pets can carry fleas to indoor pets. Consult your vet for the best product to treat your pet.

Fluids

A constant supply of water is important to keep your pet cool and hydrated, like us, your cat or dog requires water to maintain healthy skin.

Reduce stress

Stress can lead to over grooming. Understand what is causing your pet to become stressed and try to reduce this, if possible. If your pet is anxious, ask your vet about Nutracalm.

Keep your home and their bed clean

Regularly clean, provide fresh bedding and reduce dust in your home. Hoovering on a regular basis, at least twice a week, will help to get rid of any excess dust. This will include rugs, curtains and any other material that gathers dust.

Consider using natural supplements

Nutramega contains high quality Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E, which naturally calm sensitive skin, soothe dry, flaky skin and reduce itching and scratching.

 

Speak to your vet about managing healthy skin and coat in pets and ask them for more information on additional ways to maintain the health of your pet. Ask your vet about how Nutramega can help to maintain a healthy coat and skin for your pet.

 

 

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Skin and coat concerns in pets

Skin and coat concerns in pets

Skin and coat concerns in pets are a common reason for pet owners to take a dog or cat to visit the vet.

Often pet owners want to help calm the pet’s sensitive, dry flaky skin and require a product that will soothe and reduce the itching to help make their pet more comfortable. In dogs it is particularly common for Terriers, Setters, Retrievers, Spaniels and Dalmatians to visit the vet with a need to aid it.

Recognising when to visit the vets

The underlying issue often relates to some cause of scratching, itching and redness of the skin. The causes and irritation can fall into several categories and to complicate matters some pets are affected by more than one cause. These can include things such as fleas, food allergies and an acute fatty balance.

How to manage a pet’s skin and coat

Your pet’s skin and coat can often benefit from a multimodal approach combining drug, nutraceutical, nutritional and environmental changes in a customised plan for your pet.

If fleas are a problem it is vital to speak to your vet about the best flea control products to treat both your pet and your home. It is estimated that 95% of flea eggs/larvae live in the home environment particularly in bedding and flooring, so these flea stages need controlling too.

Work with your vet on a plan to reduce allergy triggers for your pet. Household dust, plant pollen, lawn chemicals and diet can all cause allergies, or can build to a crescendo of allergies if the dog’s sensitivities cross a threshold. Frequent room vacuuming, air ionisers and baths in skin-soothing herbal or medicated shampoos can also help.

If you are worried about skin and coat concerns in pets, speak to you vet who is best placed to offer advice. Ask your vet about how Nutramega can help to maintain a healthy coat and skin for your pet.

Nutramega is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland and contains high quality Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E, which naturally calm sensitive skin, soothe dry, flaky skin and reduce itching and scratching.

 

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Omega-3 for dogs and cats

Omega-3 for dogs and cats

Omega-3 for dogs and cats can provide pets with itchy skin relief.

If you have an itchy pet, natural supplements with Omega-3 for dogs and cats can calm sensitive skin and help to reduce the itching and scratching.

Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that the body needs but cannot produce naturally. Supplementing your pet’s diet with Omega-3 can not only support their skin and coat health, but also maintain healthy brain function and joint health.

Often cats and dogs unwittingly receive an unnatural diet, which is too high in Omega-6 fatty acids derived from high levels of cereals and vegetable proteins. Special Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) from refined fish oil are particularly important to counteract the Omega 6 imbalance.

Sources of animal Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA include, fish, fish oils, eggs from chickens fed EPA and DHA, squid oils and krill oil. Nutravet uses highly refined Omega-3 fish oil from ocean sardines. The fish oil is put through an exclusive 6-step manufacturing process to extract the beneficial Omega-3s EPA and DHA from the oil and refining to the highest quality strength. Refining the oil also removes heavy metals and other undesirable pollutants to ensure maximum purity.

Feeding additional Omega-6 fatty acids can worsen the condition of your pet’s skin, therefore, it’s important to consider the ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3. Pets need both, but in the correct proportions.

Introducing your pet to Omega-3 supplements, such as Nutramega, which contains highly refined Omega-3 fish oil from ocean sardines, are particularly important to counteract the Omega-6 imbalance and do not include any added Omega-6 fatty acids.

Nutramega provides high strength nutritional support for itchy dogs and also includes d-biotin, which synthesises fatty acids and is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat and nails. If you are looking for Omega-3 for dogs and cats then Nutramega is recommended by vets throughout the UK as a high strength nutritional support for healthy skin and glossy coat.