Skin and hair of Feline

Skin and Hair

Feline skin, like that of people and dogs, has an outer layer called the epidermis that is constantly being replaced, and an inner layer called the dermis that contains nerves and blood vessels, oil glands, and hair follicles. The oil glands secrete sebum that coats and protects the fur, giving it a glossy sheen. Feline skin is more sensitive than human skin, which is why it is important to use topical preparations that are specifically formulated for pets. Shampoos and other topical products for people can irritate your cat's skin and should be avoided.

Feline Hairs
Guard hairs: coarse, long, thick hairs that come to a fine tip; insulate the body and aid the sense of touch Awn hairs: thinner hairs within the primary coat; also help insulate and protect the body Secondary hairs: the thinnest and most numerous hairs; make up the downy undercoat that is important for temperature control Whiskers: long, wiry, sensory hairs attached to the face

Cat fur protects the skin from sun, cold, scratches, and insect bites; helps regulate body temperature; and supports the sense of touch. Cat fur consists of several types of hairs. Cats also have whiskers that are attached to nerve cells in the face. These sensitive hairs can be used to judge the size of an opening, such as a rodent hole. As in dogs, cats have small muscles attached to hair follicles, which can make hair stand erect for temperature control or as a warning sign (that is, “raised hackles”) in response to danger.

Different breeds of cats have different types of hair coats. Some have long hair (for example, the Persian, the domestic longhair), some have short hair (the Abyssinian, domestic shorthair), and some have “-mutant” hair. The mutant hair types on Rex or wire-haired breeds are shorter and curlier than the hair of most other cats. Some breeds even lack hair on certain areas of the body, usually the chest and belly.

Cats shed hair naturally year round, although the rate of shedding depends on climate, nutrition, and general overall health. Outdoor cats shed more in fall and spring. Shedding may increase in all cats due to stress, such as a trip to the veterinarian. Excessive shedding and bald patches can be a sign of illness that should be investigated.