What Your Cat’s Coat Reveals About Their Health

Your cat's coat is more than just soft, strokeable fur — it can be a reflection of their overall wellbeing. A shiny, thick, and well-groomed coat usually means your cat is in good health, while dullness, bald spots or excessive shedding could be signs that something's up. At Petdirect, we get pet, and we’re here to help you understand what your cat’s coat might be trying to tell you and how to keep it in tip-top shape.

Signs Of A Healthy Cat Coat

A healthy feline coat should be:

• Glossy and smooth, not greasy or coarse
• Free of bald patches, flakes, redness or scabs
• Thick and even, with minimal shedding (especially outside of moulting seasons)

If your cat is grooming themselves regularly (and not obsessively), and looks sleek and content, chances are their coat — and their health — is in good shape. But when things seem a bit off, their fur can be the first to show it.

What A Dull Or Scruffy Coat Might Mean

If you’ve noticed your cat’s coat has lost its lustre or is matted, greasy or unkempt, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. Common culprits include:

• Poor nutrition: Cats need a balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids and proteins for healthy skin and fur. Upgrading to a science-led nutrition formula or NZ-made pet food can be a good starting point.
• Parasites: Fleas and mites can irritate your cat's skin, leading to scratching and patchy fur. A regular flea & worm treatment for cats is essential in NZ, especially during the warmer months.
• Stress or anxiety: Overgrooming due to stress might cause fur thinning or bald spots. Try natural calming remedies if your cat is feeling frazzled.
• Medical issues: Conditions like hyperthyroidism, skin infections or arthritis can reduce grooming behaviours, which may cause the coat to appear dull.

If you’re unsure, your local vet is always the best port of call for diagnosis and advice.

How Nutrition Impacts Cat Coat Health

Your cat’s diet plays a big role in their coat’s condition. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, proteins, vitamins and minerals all contribute to shiny, healthy fur. Make sure you’re feeding high-quality food, like those from Royal Canin, ZIWI, or Feline Natural, packed with the nutrients your cat needs.

Need a boost? Explore our range of skin and coat health supplements designed to support your cat from the inside out.

When Excessive Shedding Is A Concern

Some shedding is normal — especially during seasonal changes — but if your cat’s suddenly shedding more than usual or leaving bald patches, it may point to an issue. Allergies, poor hydration, or underlying skin conditions could be to blame.

Make grooming part of your regular routine using cat brushes and combs made for all fur lengths. This helps reduce matting and sheds, stimulates natural oils and allows you to check for any changes in their skin.

How To Support A Healthy Coat Year-Round

Whether your cat’s a sleek shorthair or a fluffball of a longhair, keeping their coat healthy is easier with these simple care tips:

• Feed a balanced, species-appropriate diet
• Provide fresh, clean water (try a cat water fountain to encourage hydration)
• Stick to a regular grooming routine with quality tools
• Use cat-safe shampoos and conditioners where needed — especially for long-haired or ageing cats
• Stay on top of parasite treatments

If your cat enjoys a bit of pampering, make their grooming routine extra special with treats from our cat treats collection.

Keep An Eye On Their Fur For Clues

Your cat’s coat is like a mirror to their health, giving you clues into what’s going on beneath the surface. With the right care, nutrition and regular checks, you can help your purring pal stay as sleek and shiny as ever.

Not sure where to start? Discover everything you need to support a healthy cat coat, from supplements to grooming tools, in one purrfect place. And with our Pet Perks loyalty programme, you’ll earn rewards while caring for your cat’s wellbeing!