When do older cats start to experience an increase in dandruff?

Dandruff is not necessarily a sign of ageing, and it can start at any age. Many cats may never have much dandruff.

As a veterinarian, the most common causes I see of dandruff:

• Obesity. Overweight cats have more trouble grooming (they struggle to reach their back or tail bases).
• Diet. Poor quality diets in general can lead to a dull hair coat and dandruff. Try switching to a diet supplemented in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Arthritis. Similar to obesity, it is harder to groom, and dandruff can result. Obviously this is one of the causes that is most common in older cats. For geriatric cats who cannot groom properly, regularly brushing can keep dandruff at bay (but be aware that over-brushing can result in the opposite problem).
• Young cats can develop skin diseases – typically allergic or parasitic – which can lead to flaky skin. Usually there are other skin lesions as well in these cases.

Dandruff is generally not a major concern, but in a young to middle-aged cat it is a signal to make sure that your cat is a healthy weight, and that they are fed a healthy diet. If you are concerned there may be more to it, then consulting your veterinarian is the way forward.