Oily cats?

I'm not sure if this is where this questions belongs, but here it is...

Sometimes when I'm scratching one of my cats on the neck, I notice a small spot at the back base of each ear that's kind of oily. I don't notice it on any other part of their bodies. Is there some kind of gland back there or something? Do I need to be concerned about this?

I have noticed this on many of my cats. My theory is that they just can't clean there very well

Crystal gets that sometimes. I just rub on a little cornstarch powder (not talc) then brush it out. That help to soak up the oils.

Originally Posted by mamacat

Sometimes when I'm scratching one of my cats on the neck, I notice a small spot at the back base of each ear that's kind of oily. I don't notice it on any other part of their bodies. Is there some kind of gland back there or something? Do I need to be concerned about this?

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i have just the opposite problem - Pixel & Mouse both have very dry, flaky skin, especially near the tail on their backs!

That is most likely a food thing. What brand do you feed them? If its a lower quality food, it doesn't keep their coats shiny and healthy like a good quality, natural food would.

Originally Posted by laureen227

i have just the opposite problem - Pixel & Mouse both have very dry, flaky skin, especially near the tail on their backs!

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Originally Posted by Jen

That is most likely a food thing. What brand do you feed them? If its a lower quality food, it doesn't keep their coats shiny and healthy like a good quality, natural food would.

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actually, i've tried several different brands! natural balance, holistic blend, science diet, iams, even supermarket brands like friskies... doesn't seem to make a difference! their coats are beautiful - they just have dandruff!

My mom's girl Piper used to get greasy fast - however ever since she has been on EUKANEUBA Lamb & Rice that all has changed - no more grease ball!!!

did you feed the same one for a long time? it takes awhile to see results. maybe find one of those natural foods that says for a shiny, healthy coat. Stick with it for a long time and maybe it'll get better.

Originally Posted by laureen227

actually, i've tried several different brands! natural balance, holistic blend, science diet, iams, even supermarket brands like friskies... doesn't seem to make a difference! their coats are beautiful - they just have dandruff!

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Originally Posted by Jen

did you feed the same one for a long time? it takes awhile to see results. maybe find one of those natural foods that says for a shiny, healthy coat. Stick with it for a long time and maybe it'll get better.

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they only got one bag of the holistic blend, but prior to that were on natural balance for a couple of years... it's the one i usually get. right now they're on IAMS because i got coupons for free bags! i'm thinking maybe it's because the lo-cal stuff is lower in fats so their skin is drier. but as fat as the 2 adults are, i feel that it's more important to feed the lo-cal & live w/the dandruff. Mouse weighs 14 pounds, & Pixel weighs 11 - these are cats that could weigh as little as 8 pounds & not be underweight!

Some cats just have oily spots. From what I've heard from others, Red Tabby boy persians are one breed noted for this. Mine gets oily on his belly and chest and I have quite an elaborate bathing process we go through once a month. Oh how I wish it was only behind his ears!!

Tigger and Midnight both get a little oily behind the ears. We feed them Nutro, I dont think its the food in our case, just the fact that the hubby and I are always loving on them, kissing their little heads, nuzzling, etc.