10 Best Cat Foods for Shedding (Hair loss) and Dandruff in 2023

If you live with a cat, you’d better get used to finding cat hair on every surface. After a while, you’ll stop trying to control it and just succumb to the inevitable. You’ll start shopping for clothes based on what color will best disguise cat hair and you’ll by stock in lint rollers.


35% Off at Chewy.com

+ Free Shipping

Save Now

Learning to live with cat hair is a smart choice as a cat owner, but before you give up on reducing your cat’s shedding, there is something you should know – changing his diet might help.

Many cat owners fail to realize the connection between their cat’s food and various problems including excessive shedding. Low-quality cat food can not only impact your cat’s digestion and overall nutrition, but it can also make him shed more than usual or dry out his skin, leading to dandruff. The good news is that upgrading your cat’s diet could solve these problems.

In this article, we’ll cover the topic of excessive shedding and dandruff in cats. We’ll also provide some simple grooming tips to reduce shedding as well as information about how to choose the best cat food for shredding and dandruff.

What Causes Excessive Shedding and Dandruff in Cats?

If you’re wondering how to stop a cat from shedding, there’s bad news – you can’t. In the same way that your own hair falls out to make room for new growth, you cat’s coat is constantly renewing itself. Some cats certainly shed more than others, but all cats (at least, the ones that have fur) shed to some degree.

Not only do some cat breeds shed more than others, but there are certain factors which can cause your cat to shed excessively. Here are some of the most common causes for excessive shedding in cats:

  • Low-quality cat food (lack of moisture, healthy fats, or nutrients)
  • Underlying health issues (such as parasites, allergies, or thyroid issues)
  • Negative reaction to medications or topical substances
  • Time of year (most cats shed more heavily in the spring)
  • Stress or nervousness (often caused by a change in the cat’s environment)
  • Age (older cats may have trouble grooming themselves)
  • Hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or thyroid issues)

Excessive shedding is one of the most common coat-related problems in cats, but many cats also develop dry, itchy skin and dandruff. These two problems are frequently related so, if you notice that your cat is shedding more than usual, you might want to take a closer look at his coat to see if he’s developed dandruff as well. In either case, you’ll want to take him to the vet to rule out underlying medical causes for the change in his skin and coat.

Here are some of the most common causes for itchy skin and dandruff in cats:

  • Lack of moisture in the diet
  • External parasites such as ringworm, mites, or fleas
  • Stress or anxiety due to changes in the cat’s environment
  • Fungal or yeast infections (typically caused by ringworm or Malassezia bacteria)
  • Seborrhea dermatitis, or excessive sebum production in the skin
  • Underlying medical problem such as feline diabetes or hyperthyroidism
  • Old age, a cat’s skin is more prone to dryness at it gets older
If your veterinarian rules out underlying medical causes for your cat’s shedding and dandruff, you may have to take matters into your own hands with one of two options. First, you can change your grooming methods to reduce shedding. Second, you can upgrade your cat’s diet to improve the condition of his skin and coat to reduce shedding and dandruff. Keep reading to learn more.

Grooming Tips to Reduce Shedding

Grooming your cat on a regular basis is a great way to build your bond, but it is also important if you want to control shedding. When it comes to how to stop a cat from shedding, you’re out of luck, but making changes to your grooming routine will certainly help.

Here are some cat grooming tips to reduce shedding:

  • Choose the right brush for your cat’s coat and learn how to use it properly.
  • Try a deshedding tool like the FURminator deShedding tool for cats to remove dead and loose hair from the undercoat.
  • Always brush in the direction of hair growth – most cats don’t like having their hair brushed against the grain, though it can be helpful to reduce shedding in long-haired cats.
  • Bathe your cat with a moisturizing or medicated shampoo for cats.
  • Make an effort to brush your cat several times a week – the more you brush your cat, the less fur there is to be shed.

Some cats simply don’t like being bathed or groomed, so you may need to start off slowly and work with your cat to get him used to the treatment. Be prepared to fend off some sharp claws and make sure you have a pocket full of tasty treats!

Choosing a Cat Food to Reduce Shedding and Dandruff

When it comes to shedding control cat food, quality is of the utmost importance. If your cat isn’t getting a balanced diet, it’s going to show in his skin and coat. Low-quality cat food leads to dry, itchy skin which can cause trouble with excessive scratching and increased shedding. But what do you look for in the best cat food that helps with shedding?

Here are some things to look for in a cat food to reduce shedding and dandruff:

  • Nutritionally complete and balanced. Choosing a high-quality cat food that is nutritionally complete and balanced is essential for overall health, but also for healthy skin and coat. Make sure the label carries an AAFCO statement of nutritional adequacy for your cat’s life stage.
  • High-quality animal protein. Cats are obligate carnivores, so protein should be the foundation of a healthy diet. Animal protein is much more digestible and nutritionally valuable for cats, so choose a recipe that includes an animal protein as the main ingredient.
  • Plenty of omega-3 fatty acids. Dietary fats, especially omega-3 fatty acids, are important for healthy skin and coat. They also offer anti-inflammatory benefits which can help reducing itching and scratching to prevent dandruff.
  • Rich in moisture. Many cats have a tendency to not drink enough water, so the moisture content of your cat’s food is important to maintain proper hydration for healthy skin and coat.
  • Free from artificial additives. Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives can trigger food allergies and sensitivities which have the potential to negatively impact your cat’s coat so look for a recipe made with all-natural ingredients.
  • Unlikely to trigger allergies. Aside from artificial additives, cats can also be allergic or sensitive to food ingredients such as grains and common proteins. If your cat has food allergies, consider a recipe with a limited number of main ingredients including a novel protein and carbohydrate.

Now that you know what you’re looking for, you’re ready to start shopping for shedding control cat food! If you still need a little help, keep reading to see our top 10 picks for the best cat food options in this category.

The Top 10 Best Cat Foods for Shedding and Dandruff

When it comes to the best cat food for shedding control, you need a recipe rich in animal protein and healthy fats. Both of these are key components in a cat food to reduce shedding and dandruff. If you’re not sure where to start looking for this kind of cat food, check out our top 10 picks below:

Our 2023 Picks: Best Cat Litters for Dandruff and Shedding
Smalls Human-Grade Ground Bird Fresh Cat Food
  • Fresh food delivered to your door
  • Perfectly portioned for your cat
  • Price:  Varies
CHECK PRICE
American Journey Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food
  • Affordable price
  • Real salmon as first ingredient
  • Price:  $2.09/lb
CHECK PRICE
Taste Of The Wild Canyon River Grain-Free Dry Food
  • Real fish as the main ingredient
  • Grain-free carbohydrates
  • Price:  $2.10/lb
CHECK PRICE
Nature’s Variety Instinct Healthy Cravings Salmon Recipe Food Topper
  • Rich in protein and moisture
  • Real salmon as main ingredient
  • Price:  $1.02/pouch
CHECK PRICE
I And Love And You Savory Salmon Pate Grain-Free Canned Food
  • Rich in protein and moisture
  • Real salmon as main ingredient
  • Price:  $1.12/can
CHECK PRICE
Go! Sensitivity + Shine LID Duck Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food
  • Limited number of main ingredients
  • Single source animal protein
  • Price:  $4.06/lb
CHECK PRICE
Redbarn Naturals Salmon Grain-Free Canned Cat Food
  • Fresh fruits, and vegetables
  • Very high in moisture (82%)
  • Price:  $1.05/can
CHECK PRICE
Wellness Complete Health Adult Salmon & Salmon Meal Dry Food
  • Real salmon as the main ingredient
  • Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
  • Price:  $2.55/can
CHECK PRICE
ZiwiPeak Mackerel And Lamb Recipe Canned Food
  • Two premium sources of animal protein
  • 92% fresh meat and organs
  • Price:  $3.52/can
CHECK PRICE
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food
  • Fresh salmon as the main ingredient
  • Rich in protein and healthy fat
  • Price:  $2.93/lb
CHECK PRICE

Smalls Human-Grade Ground Bird Fresh Cat Food

Smalls Ground Bird Recipe

Best Cat Food Overall for Shedding and Dandruff: Most cat nutritionists agree that fresh food is best for cats. Not only is it rich in digestible nutrition, but it is closer to a cat’s natural evolutionary diet than dry food. Fresh food is high in moisture because it hasn’t been cooked at high heat to make it shelf-stable which also means that it retains more of its original nutritional value.

Smalls is a fresh pet food delivery service that delivers fresh cat food custom-portioned for your cat, right to your door. Simply fill out your cat’s profile online, choose from multiple recipes (bird, other bird, beef, fish) and start receiving deliveries. In addition to supplying your cat with plenty of protein, healthy fats, and moisture, Smalls’ recipes are loaded with fresh fruits and vegetables to provide natural sources for essential nutrients.

  • Pros: Fresh food delivered to your door, perfectly portioned for your cat, rich in protein and moisture, high in nutritional value, grain-free recipes, fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Cons: Expensive to feed as a staple diet

American Journey Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Cat Food

American Journey Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Cat Food

Best Affordable Cat Food for Shedding and Dandruff: Choosing a high-quality diet for your cat that supports his skin and coat health doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. This American Journey Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food is an affordable option that more than meets your cat’s needs for high-quality animal protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and moisture. This recipe features fresh, deboned salmon as the main ingredient with salmon meal and menhaden fish meal as supplemental sources of protein and healthy fats. It is a completely grain-free formula but still rich in dietary fiber to support healthy digestion as well as fresh fruits and vegetables to provide natural sources for key nutrients. This formula provides a whopping 40% protein and 15% fat with 10% moisture. It also contains beneficial supplements like chelated minerals and probiotics.

  • Pros: Affordable price, real salmon as first ingredient, rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, grain-free, fresh fruits and vegetables, beneficial supplements like chelated minerals and probiotics
  • Cons: Contains some plant protein (pea protein), first source of fat is plant-based (canola oil)

Taste of the Wild Canyon River Grain-Free Dry Food

Taste of the Wild Canyon River Grain-Free Dry Food

Most Popular Cat Food for Shedding and Dandruff: When you can’t decide which cat food to choose, you can always go with a popular choice like this Taste of the Wild Canyon River Grain-Free Dry Food. This recipe provides complete and balanced nutrition through the use of healthy, wholesome ingredients in a naturally grain-free formula. Like all of the brand’s formulas, this recipe is rich in premium animal proteins and healthy fats. It features fresh trout as the first ingredient with ocean fish meal and smoked salmon as supplemental sources of protein. Healthy fats come from canola oil as well as the fish ingredients to ensure that your cat’s needs for omega-3 fatty acids are met. This recipe is supplemented with chelated minerals to ensure optimal nutrient absorption, and it is made with probiotics for healthy digestion as well.

  • Pros: Real fish as the main ingredient, grain-free carbohydrates, fresh fruits, and vegetables, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, chelated minerals and probiotics for nutrient absorption
  • Cons: Contains some plant proteins (pea and potato), first source of fat is plant-based (canola oil)

Nature’s Variety Instinct Healthy Cravings Salmon Recipe Food Topper

Nature’s Variety Instinct Healthy Cravings Salmon Recipe Food Topper

Best Food Topper for Shedding and Dandruff: If you’re looking for a simple way to increase the moisture content of your cat’s diet, this Nature’s Variety Instinct Healthy Cravings Salmon Recipe Food Topper is a great option. Made with real salmon, this food topper is naturally rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Simply spoon it over your cat’s dry food for a boost of moisture, healthy fats, and flavor to improve the condition of his skin and coat. It is completely grain-free to reduce the risk for triggering food allergies and sensitivities, plus it is made in the USA. Keep in mind that it is not nutritionally complete and should only be used as a supplement.

  • Pros: Rich in protein and moisture, real salmon as main ingredient, no artificial additives, grain-free,
  • Cons: Not nutritionally complete (supplement only), contains chicken ingredients

I and Love and You Savory Salmon Pate Grain-Free Canned Food

I and Love and You Savory Salmon Pate Grain-Free Canned Food

Best Wet Cat Food for Shedding and Dandruff: If you prefer to feed your cat wet food, this I and Love and You Savory Salmon Pate Grain-Free Canned Food is an excellent option. Made with fresh salmon as the main ingredient, this recipe is naturally rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids – two nutrients essential for healthy skin and coat. This formula contains no grains or artificial additives, so it is easy for your cat to digest and unlikely to trigger food allergies and sensitivities unless your cat is sensitive to chicken. It contains fresh fruits and vegetables as natural sources for key nutrients and is supplemented with chelated minerals to ensure optimal nutrient absorption. Overall, it contains more than 45% protein as dry matter with 78% moisture.

  • Pros: Rich in protein and moisture, real salmon as main ingredient, plenty of omega-3 fatty acids, grain-free carbohydrates, fresh fruits and vegetables, chelated minerals, 78% moisture
  • Cons: Contains chicken ingredients (some cats may be sensitive), no probiotic supplements

Go! Sensitivity + Shine LID Duck Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food

Go! Sensitivity + Shine LID Duck Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food

Best Cat Food for Allergies and Sensitive Stomach: Even if you feed your cat a high-quality cat food, the condition his skin and coat could still suffer if he has food allergies or sensitivities. Food allergies in cats often manifest with skin-related symptoms such as dryness, itching, and hair loss, so if your cat has these problems you might consider switching to a limited ingredient diet like this Go! Sensitivity + Shine LID Duck Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food. Not only is this recipe made with a single source of premium animal protein, but it is grain-free and packed with omega-3 fatty acids. This recipe contains zero by-products and artificial additives but contains beneficial supplements like chelated minerals and probiotics to ensure healthy digestion.

  • Pros: Limited number of main ingredients, single source animal protein, grain-free carbohydrates, chelated minerals, probiotics, rich in antioxidants
  • Cons: Expensive to feed as a staple diet, could be higher in protein content

4 More Top-Rated Cat Foods

If our top picks for the best cat food to reduce shedding from above don’t seem like the right fit for your cat, don’t worry – you still have plenty of options. Here are four more to consider:

Redbarn Naturals Salmon Grain-Free Canned Cat Food

Redbarn Naturals Salmon Grain-Free Canned Cat Food

Another excellent option in wet food for shedding and dandruff is this Redbarn Naturals Salmon Grain-Free Canned Cat Food recipe. This formula is made with fresh salmon as the main ingredient which, in addition to being a premium animal protein, is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Dried green lipped mussels provide some supplemental protein but are primarily included as a supplemental source of omega-3s and a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support. Overall, this recipe is rich in protein and skin-supporting healthy fats, plus fresh fruits and vegetables to provide natural sources of key nutrients. If your cat doesn’t like the salmon flavor, there are several other protein options to choose from, and every recipe is free from grains, carrageenan, and artificial additives.

  • Pros: Real salmon as the first ingredient, rich in protein and omega-3s, grain-free carbohydrates, fresh fruits, and vegetables, very high in moisture (82%), chelated minerals
  • Cons: Contains some chicken ingredients (some cats may be sensitive)

Wellness Complete Health Adult Salmon & Salmon Meal Dry Food

Wellness Complete Health Adult Salmon & Salmon Meal Dry Food

When it comes to complete and balanced nutrition, Wellness is a brand you can trust. This Wellness Complete Health Adult Salmon & Salmon Meal Dry Food is an excellent choice for cats that have trouble with shedding and dandruff because it features salmon as the main ingredient. In addition to being a premium source of animal protein, salmon is also rich in skin- and coat-supporting omega fatty acids. This formula also contains flaxseed as a supplemental source of omega fatty acids and dietary fiber. Overall, this recipe is made with wholesome natural ingredients in a protein- and moisture-rich recipe that will help your cat develop and maintain healthy skin and coat. Plus, it contains digestible whole-grain carbohydrates and beneficial supplements like chelated minerals and probiotics.

  • Pros: Real salmon as the main ingredient, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, formulated for healthy skin and coat, digestible carbohydrates, beneficial supplements like chelated minerals and probiotics
  • Cons: Not a grain-free recipe (some cats are sensitive to grains), may be too high in fiber for some cats

ZiwiPeak Mackerel and Lamb Recipe Canned Food

ZiwiPeak Mackerel and Lamb Recipe Canned Food

If you’re looking for a protein-packed wet food that is also rich in moisture and healthy fats, try this ZiwiPeak Mackerel and Lamb Recipe Canned Food. This formula features two premium sources of animal protein – mackerel and lamb – and is made from 92% fresh meat, organs, and bone. All of the ingredients are responsibly sourced, so you can feel good about choosing this product for your cat. It is all-natural and completely free from artificial additives as well as other harmful ingredients like carrageenan and added sugar. This recipe features digestible grain-free carbohydrates like chickpeas with green lipped mussels added for bone and joint support. You’ll also find that this recipe contains beneficial supplements like chelated minerals to ensure optimal nutrient absorption.

  • Pros: Two premium sources of animal protein, 92% fresh meat and organs, grain-free carbohydrates, rich in moisture and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial supplements like chelated minerals
  • Cons: Expensive to feed as a staple diet

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food

Protein is the foundation of any healthy diet for cats, and this Blue Buffalo Wilderness Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food is positively packed with it. This recipe features real salmon as the main ingredient which is both a premium source of animal protein and a rich source of omega-3s. In addition to being packed with protein, this recipe is grain-free for easy digestibility and contains LifeSource Bits. These are made up of a proprietary blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to maximize your cat’s nutrition which not only supports his whole body healthy, but his skin and coat as well. This recipe provides a whopping 40% protein with 18% fats, and a healthy blend of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It also contains beneficial supplements like chelated minerals and probiotics.

  • Pros: Fresh salmon as the main ingredient, rich in protein and healthy fats, grain-free carbohydrates, ideal balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, beneficial supplements like chelated minerals and probiotics
  • Cons: Contains chicken ingredients (some cats may be sensitive), contains plan proteins (pea protein)

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I give my cat to reduce shedding?

If you’re not ready to switch to a different cat food, increasing the moisture or fat content of your cat’s diet may help to reduce shedding. Adding some chicken broth to moisten your cat’s dry food or topping his dry food with some wet food may help to boost his moisture intake. You can also add salmon oil or fish oil to your cat’s food to increase his intake of skin- and coat-supporting omega-3 fatty acids.

What causes a cat to shed excessively?

There are many factors which impact the degree to which a cat sheds including breed, age, and health status. Some cats simply shed more than others, and most cats tend to shed more heavily in the spring as they get rid of their winter coats. When it comes to excessive shedding, however, it is often due to stress, external parasites, an underlying health problem, or an inadequate diet. If you’re looking for the best cat food to reduce shedding, try one of our top 10 picks reviewed above.

Does wet cat food help with shedding?

As long as your cat’s diet is nutritionally complete and balanced, either dry food or wet food will work. There are some benefits associated with wet food, however, when it comes to reducing shedding and dandruff. Generally speaking, wet food is much higher in moisture which can help hydrate your cat’s skin and coat. Wet food also tends to be higher in protein which is a nutritional staple in a cat’s diet and a primary component of a healthy coat.

What is the best cat brush for shedding?

Cat brushes are a dime a dozen, but it’s important to choose the right brush for your cat’s coat. Slicker brushes are ideal for cats with medium-to-long coats while wire-pin and bristle brushes are best for cats with short-to-medium coats. All cats can benefit from the use of a shedding combs, shedding blades, and deshedding tools like the FURminator to reduce shedding.

Shedding Cat Food – RECAP

In many cases, improving the quality of your cat’s diet will also improve the condition of his skin and coat. If you notice, however, that your cat’s increase in shedding is accompanied by a dull, dry coat and itchy skin, you should have him checked by a veterinarian to see if his problems are caused by an underlying health problem. If your cat’s coat is still shiny and soft, however, switching to one of the best cat food for healthy skin and coat options reviewed above may solve the shedding problem.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *