To ensure that your cat has a shiny coat, it is so crucial that your cat consumes important nutrients, and all of the essential supplements should be contained in her food. A balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids is essential, as well as vitamins and trace minerals with biotin, zinc, copper and selenium playing a major role.
There are various supplements, mainly in oil form, on the market that can assist with a healthy coat. All of these mainly contribute to the omega-6 and omega-3 requirement. Oils high in omega-3 are especially helpful in giving a healthy, shiny coat. However, a scientifically balanced and complete commercial diet should not need any further supplementation – especially if you feed your cat a diet designed to promote a healthy coat.
It can take anywhere between four and eight weeks into supplementation to see a difference in your cat’s coat, but in some cases, it can take a bit longer, depending on the coat condition prior to supplementation.
Suretha van Breda, nutritionist
