Your pet’s coat is a reflection of their overall health and a shiny, soft coat is more than just a matter of regular grooming. The secret to a healthy shine is in the food you feed. By adding certain nutrients to your pet’s diet you can improve the texture of their coat.
According to a study published in the Canadian Journal of Veterinary Research, 1997, Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids in foods like salmon, flaxseed and eggs work wonders for both dogs and cats keeping their fur moisturised and reducing shedding. Vitamin E-rich foods like sunflower oil or leafy greens promote skin health. Adding proteins like chicken or turkey can also strengthen hair follicles and prevent breakage.
Image Credit: Freepik
Do not forget to add hydration, a hydrated pet has better skin elasticity and a softer coat. You can also add wet food or water-rich fruits like cucumbers to their meals for extra moisture. When feeding your furry friend try rotating in these skin and coat-friendly ingredients regularly and see the difference in their fur. Whether you are giving them a homemade meal or store-bought options a balanced diet with these nutrients will keep your pet’s coat looking its best.
Foods Good For Your Pets Coats:
Eggs
According to the Animal Welfare Board of India, packed with bioavailable protein, eggs will keep your dog’s coat shiny and healthy. They are also full of zinc which supports protein synthesis and cell division to help heal wounds and build connective tissue. The biotin in the yolk helps produce keratin which is good for healthy hair and nails and alleviates skin allergies.
Image Credit: Freepik
Tip: Do not give raw eggs as they contain avidin which interferes with biotin absorption. Cook them lightly and do not overcook them to preserve nutrients.
Sweet Potatoes
If your dog is itchy, sweet potatoes are a great allergy-friendly carb. According to the Animal Welfare Board of India, they are easy to digest when cooked and sliced, and cooking increases the vitamin C content which is good for skin protection from sun damage and wound healing.
Image Credit: Freepik
Carrots
Crunchy and easy to chew, carrots will clean your dog’s teeth and provide beta-carotene which is a precursor to vitamin A. As per the study published in Frontiers of Plant Science, 2023, Vitamin A will repair skin, reduce irritation and promote eye health, and vitamin K will help with wound healing. If your dog has dry, flaky skin, the extra vitamin A in carrots may help.
Image Credit: Freepik
Chia Seeds
According to a study published in the Canadian Journal of Veterinary Research in 2010 richer in omega-3 and fibre than flax, chia seeds are a powerful skin protector. These super seeds will reduce inflammation, keep your pet’s skin hydrated and don’t need to be ground to release their nutrients, just sprinkle over kibble for a smooth coat.
Image Credit: Freepik
Fish
If your dog has food allergies, try adding omega-3-rich fish or fish oils to their diet. As per a study published in the International Wound Journal. 2023, omega-3, 6 and 9 are good for healthy skin and a shiny coat. Omega-3 and 6 will build strong cell membranes and form the skin’s natural oil barrier to keep your pet’s skin hydrated.
Image Credit: Freepik
Almonds
Full of vitamin E, almonds will improve your dog’s skin and coat. According to a study published in, Nutrients. 2021, Vitamin E is an antioxidant that will protect from sun damage and moisturise the skin. Soak or powder almonds for easy chewing and watch your dog’s coat get shinier and healthier.
Image Credit: Freepik
Sunflower & Coconut Oil
A few drops of sunflower oil will keep your dog’s coat hydrated, especially in cold weather. As per a study published by, the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition 2022, rich in vitamins A, B, D and E, it will fight bacteria and soothe dry skin. Coconut oil with its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties is another great option. It will treat eczema, heal wounds and even support brain function.
Image Credit: Freepik
Bananas
Bananas are full of skin-friendly nutrients like biotin, vitamins A and C and copper. Although rare, copper deficiency can cause a rough coat and hair pigment loss.
Image Credit: Freepik
As per the study published in Frontiers of Plant Science, 2023 bananas are low in calories and sodium but high in sugar so offered as an occasional treat.