Compared to that of humans, pets’ skin is extremely fragile and thin. Thus, bathing them too often can destroy the natural protective layer of their skin. If not properly selected, their bath products may damage your fur baby’s skin, reduce their skin immunity, and make it easier for the bacteria to invade. It can ultimately cause skin problems, including dry skin, itching, allergies, dander, etc.
Fragile Cat Skin – How Often Should You Wash Your Cat?
Cats’ skin condition is different from humans’. Indeed, cats’ skin has fewer layers and is thinner. Its structure is more simple. These felines don’t have the same sweat glands function as humans. Their metabolism cycle is also shorter than ours. Therefore, cat skin is easier to attack.
Feline skin is composed of the following three main layers:
- Epidermis: the outer layer. It protects from foreign objects.
- Dermis: the middle layer under the epidermis. It supports and nourishes the epidermis and skin appendages.
- Subcutis: the innermost layer that contains the fat beneath the skin and muscles.
The top skin layer, the epidermis, keeps out infectious or noxious agents. It represents the first barrier against external aggressions. The epidermis can also protect the body from invading organisms and injuries because of its immune cells. Also, on cats’ skin, the sebaceous glands produce an important oily secretion called sebum that can protect their skin as well.
When the function of the top skin layer is damaged, cats are more prone to skin diseases. Bathing them too frequently, using inappropriate cleaning products, or using water that is too warm can harm the epidermis and decrease its protective effect. Once the protective layer and immunity are destroyed, the “shield” will no longer be able to fight the skin’s enemies, namely bacteria, fungi, germs, and viruses.
