Skin and Coat Problems

Many seniors develop thinner, graying coats and dry skin; however, if any of these changes seem extreme, consult your veterinarian. Itchy, red skin or a balding coat cold signal poor nutrition, fleas or other parasites, along with diseases, such as diabetes, Cushing's disease or thyroid disease. A few points to keep in mind include:

Healthy skin and coat reflect a healthy pet, regardless of age.
Feed your pet a high-quality food to promote a healthy skin and coat, especially one that provides the optimal ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids,3 which can help rejuvenate dry skin and help develop a rich, luxurious coat.
Older pets that lose coat density and muscle mass are less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Be sure to provide warm bedding during the winter and a cool retreat during hot summer months.