Symptom: Flaky Skin – Why does my pet have flaky skin?
What are the signs that my pet has flaky skin?
Small white flakes resembling dandruff on your pet's coat or falling onto their fur
Areas of skin that are dry, thick, and hardened
Thinning fur or bald patches in areas where the skin is affected
The skin may appear red and irritated
Your pet might frequently scratch, lick, or bite his/her skin
A bad or foul odour from the skin can be present
Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC
Published June 2025 | Review date June 2028
This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
My pet has flaky skin - Frequently asked questions
What are the common reasons for my pet to have flaky skin
- Environmental or food allergies
- Parasites (fleas, ticks, and mites)
- Bacterial or fungal infections, such as yeast or ringworm
- Hormonal imbalances (like hypothyroidism), autoimmune diseases, or diabetes
- A diet lacking essential nutrients, like omega-3 fatty acids
DO’s – What can I do at home if my pet has flaky skin?
- Improve diet
- Brush regularly
- Reduce over-bathing
DON'Ts – What I shouldn't do at home if my pet has flaky skin?
- Don't use human products
- Don't use hot water or a blow dryer
- Don't self-diagnose or start home remedies without your vet’s advice
- Don't let them have contact with other animals if contagious
When should I consider taking my pet to the vet if they have flaky skin?
- Excessive itching, licking, or scratching
- Persistent or worsening dry skin
- Redness, swelling, rashes, open sores or bleeding
- Hair loss or bald patches
- A foul odour coming from the skin
- A greasy or oily coat and skin
- Visible parasites, like mites ("walking dandruff"), fleas, or flea dirt
- Painful "hot spots", rapidly expanding, red, and moist areas of skin can be very painful and require immediate treatment.
It is an emergency if:
- Severe allergic reactions, symptoms like facial swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, or sudden swelling
- Skin necrosis, skin that becomes black, leather-like, or sloughs off can result from burns, spider bites, or severe drug reactions and requires immediate hospitalisation