The two glands that create this condition are the apocrine sweat gland (which produces watery debris) and the sebaceous gland (which produces fatty acids and oils/sebum). Both are associated with the epidermis (outer layer) of the skin. The apocrine gland produces a watery secretion that contains minerals, salts, and pheromones and empties into the hair follicle, unlike the sweat glands of humans and horses that secrete on the skin’s surface. In addition to the extra substances, it produces a watery aspect that works as a lubricant for the hair and skin. The sebaceous glands secrete sebum, which is also deposited in the follicle but eventually moves across the surface of the skin and hair, creating a watertight barrier to protect the skin and hair. When these glands get irritated or have an inflammatory process, they react in one of two ways: They either over-secrete or under-secrete (for example, sebaceous adenitis).

Some conditions that will cause the inflammation include harsh products, degreasing, lack of conditioning, metabolic disease (like thyroid disease, Cushing’s, Addison’s, diabetes, liver or kidney disease) and environmental issues. Checking bloodwork on these pets is always a good starting point, especially if the pet is over seven years of age or the problem is recurring. If the problem is coming from an internal source, it will be tough to control it without addressing the internal source.

Producing excess fluids/oils is the body’s way of dealing with irritation, making defining the source of irritation an essential aspect of dealing with the issue to avoid constant reoccurrence. It is similar to the eyes producing mucous when dried out or infected. Considering the body is trying to compensate for this irritation explains why “degreasing” a pet is contraindicated, as it dries and irritates the skin, sending the body into shock by removing its protection. The body will then produce more fluids/oils to alleviate the additional dryness. Unfortunately, degreasing remains the most common approach to this issue.

Typical cases of over-secretion include the greasy Yorkie, the stinky Basset, the oily cat, skin infections, etc. Even though removing the grease or oils in the short term makes sense, it is the exact opposite approach we should take to resolve the problem. Once we understand the process, the best practice is to take a more scientific approach. By using a close (condition)-open (shampoo)-close (condition) technique, we can break down the oils in a less aggressive manner that doesn’t send the body into shock in the first close (oils dissolve oils). Then by replacing the oils we removed in the shampoo stage and moisture in the final stage with a hydrating (humectant) soothing conditioner, we will quiet and soothe the irritation and settle it down. Depending on the source of the issue, it may not be solved in one session and may even require a couple of baths to return things to normal, but it has a greater chance of resolving the issue versus shocking the system by removing its protection.

In some of these cases, allergies may be the root cause. If that is the case, being proactive before allergy season and using this technique before things progress can be very helpful, if not prevent the issue altogether. Low-grade fungal or bacterial issues are also a common source, so using the close-open-close technique and including antibacterial and antifungal shampoos can help. This is especially true in hot and humid climates that tend to produce a lot of yeast-type infections.

Cats are famous for this problem because we typically rely on cats to groom themselves at least part of the time. Once cats get a little dry or irritated and matted, they often stop grooming, and the oils/grease will become problematic. This often leads to shave-downs and ongoing issues if not correctly handled.

Understanding the issue and choosing your products wisely is crucial to your success in dealing with these pets. Using an emollient (especially in the second close) on greasy pets is adding to the issue, not solving the problem. If you already have extra grease or oils, it doesn’t help to add more grease or oils. The coat must be conditioned to break the cycle. Therefore, it is imperative that you use a humectant-type conditioner that will hydrate, which will soothe the skin. Remember, the source of irritation on many of these pets is dry skin or hair.

If you were taught that degreasing is the answer to this issue, then it may be time to rethink this and try new approaches to work for resolution versus just helping the problem in the short term. Happy skin is healthy skin. Unhappy skin produces more skin debris.

Dr. Cliff Faver graduated with a BS in Biology/BA in Chemistry before getting a Veterinary degree in 1987. He is the past owner of Animal Health Services in Cave Creek, Arizona and now the US distributor for Iv San Bernard products, teaches the ISB Pet Aesthetician Certification program, and speaks internationally on hair and skin. His passion is to merge groomers and veterinarians to aid in helping and healing pets. He is also a member of AVMA, AAHA, AZVMA, Board member with Burbank Kennel Club, and has served on Novartis Lead Committee, Hill’s International Global Veterinary Board, and a Veterinary Management Group.