How the Right Diet Can Help Soothe Your Pet’s Itchy Skin

Itchy, irritated skin is one of the most common reasons pet parents visit their vet. If your dog or cat is constantly scratching, licking, or chewing, their diet might be adding fuel to the itch. The good news? With the right nutrients and food choices, you can often help soothe your furry friend from the inside out. At Petdirect, we're here to help you pick the best nutrition to support your pet’s skin health — because We Get Pet.

Common Causes Of Itchy Skin In Pets

Before we dive into dietary solutions, it's helpful to understand why your pet might be scratching. Common causes in New Zealand include:

• Seasonal allergies from grass, pollen, or dust mites
• Flea allergies — especially reactions to flea saliva
• Food sensitivities or allergies
• Dry skin due to low humidity or frequent bathing
• Underlying conditions like dermatitis

While skin issues often have multiple contributing factors, introducing the right diet and supplements can make a big difference over time.

Skin-Supportive Ingredients To Look For

Certain ingredients in pet food and supplements are known for their skin-soothing and healing properties. Here’s what to seek out:

• Omega fatty acids (especially Omega-3): These anti-inflammatory powerhouses support the skin barrier, reduce irritation, and boost coat shine. You'll find them in products like Fourflax or Omega Plus supplements.
• Zinc and biotin: These help maintain healthy skin and a glossy coat. Deficiencies can lead to flakes, hair loss, or dull fur.
• Hydrolysed or novel proteins: In pets with food allergies, switching to diets like Hill’s Prescription Diet or PRO PLAN Veterinary Diet can reduce reactivity to common proteins.
• Digestive support: A happy gut equals a healthier skin barrier. Look for diets rich in prebiotics and fibre like Royal Canin's sensitive skin range.

Best Foods For Pets With Itchy Skin

Whether your pet’s skin irritation is allergy-related or seasonal, switching to a skin-focused diet may ease their discomfort. Consider:

• Skin & coat health supplements for daily support
• Dry food for sensitive skin such as Black Hawk or ACANA
• Wet foods for added hydration, which is especially helpful in dry climates
• Science-backed nutrition like Hill’s Science Diet or Pro Plan Sensitive Skin
• NZ-made pet food like K9 Natural or Animals Like Us

Supplements That Can Help Itchy Pets

If you're feeding a balanced diet but your pet is still scratching, supplements can offer extra support. Popular options include:

• Skin & coat supplements enriched with Omegas, vitamin E, and zinc
• All-round pet health supplements that cover digestive health, immune balance, and more
• Natural oils like salmon or flaxseed oil, available standalone or blended in dry or wet food

Tips For Managing Skin From The Inside Out

Managing diet for skin health is a great start, but it pairs best with a complete approach. Here are more ways to support your pet’s skin from the inside out:

• Stick with a consistent, high-quality diet and give any new food at least 6–8 weeks to show change
• Ensure your pet is up to date with flea prevention and regular grooming
• Use gentle, skin-friendly pet grooming products and avoid overbathing
• Introduce calming products if stress worsens your pet’s symptoms
• Talk to your vet for a tailored plan if symptoms are severe or persistent

And to make managing all these needs a breeze, consider our Autodeliver service for regular food and supplement top-ups — because a healthy pet is a happier pet!

Healthy Skin Starts from the Inside Out

Itchy skin can be frustrating for both pets and their humans, but the right diet can bring real relief. Whether it's adding Omegas, switching food, or choosing a pet-specific supplement, nourishing your pet’s skin from the inside out is one of the kindest things you can do. At Petdirect, we've got all the nutrition and know-how to support your pet’s happiest, itchiest-free life.

Explore our full range of skin and coat support options to soothe, nourish, and shine! And don’t forget to join our Pet Perks programme for member-only rewards, because we think your loyalty deserves a belly rub too.