Treating skin problems with cats
If your cat has any of the infectious skin problems outlined here, you can usually treat them successfully at home. Dermatitis and possible food allergies should always be treated according to advice from your vet.
The soothing properties of chamomile
Chamomile is a herb that’s been used to treat skin problems for centuries. It’s very soothing and can often ease sore, irritated skin. As long as your kitty has a mild irritation you could try applying it gently to the affected area. Never use creams or lotions unless designed for pets, as most contain harsh chemicals. In addition, always ask your vet for advice first before using home treatment.
However, chamomile is very safe and can be applied topically as a tea. After brewing, allow the tea to cool down. Pour a little into a cup and using a small piece of cotton wool gently dab the affected area.
I find using a spray isn’t a good idea as it can scare your kitty. Most cats hate water, and mine runs off in horror if I dare use a spray!!
Oatmeal is more than just a breakfast cereal!
Though we mostly think of oatmeal as porridge, it can in fact be used to treat itchy skin. As it’s a natural product, using it topically on your kitty is quite safe. The best way of applying it is a compress.
Mix very fine oatmeal powder into a paste using water. Using porous material like cheesecloth apply a small amount and fold it into a pack. Dab onto the affected area and let the liquid seep through.
If your kitty tolerates it, try and hold the pack for a few minutes. You may find rewarding with a few treats helps, as well as talking to your cat in a calm, reassuring voice.
You can buy an aloe vera and oatmeal shampoo for dogs and cats. If your cat can tolerate a bath, you could gently apply it to affected areas, but avoiding the face. Bathing a cat should always the last resort as most won’t tolerate it too well, and you end up in the right lather!!
However, if you’re prepared to give it a go, make sure you protect surrounding areas with plastic sheets to avoid a mess. The best idea would be to bathe your kitty in the bathroom sink. You may hurt your back bending, and it may be easier to work in a smaller basin.
You’d need to wear rubber gloves to avoid being torn to shreds, and ideally, someone to help. If you’re still laughing at the idea of bathing your cat and surviving, I’d recommend the following gentler method :)…
Fill a small bowl with tepid water and gently apply a small amount of shampoo using a piece of cotton wool soaked in water. Rinse with tepid water using a flannel, avoiding the face. If you’ve survived and your cat hasn’t bolted for the nearest open window, pat her dry using a towel.
