Tannin fever: In vino veritas... hyperbole, too

Then a woman at the back said, "kind of feels like you're chewing chalk" and again there was much nodding of heads and mumbles of concurrence. Now I can't say I've ever gotten intimate with my cat, licked something that I've just filed my fingernails with, or ingested chalk - but I have a fairly good imagination and can see exactly why those people chose those descriptors. So "cat's tongue, emery board and chalky" tannins became firmly cemented in my vinous vocabulary and I use them now without hesitation. Tannins are mostly experienced when tasting red wines and they interact with the saliva in the mouth, nullifying its lubricating action and thus the mouth feels dry. Some other words that I'd use to describe that "drying" texture in red wines would be "silky, supple, grainy, furry, powdery and puckering". Tannin and colour compounds form part of the phenolic make up of wines. Phenolics are chemical compounds that can contribute to those bitter, astringent taste sensations and they're found mostly in the skins and seeds of grapes. Phenolics also contribute to the proven health benefits of moderate daily wine consumption. It turns out the pH value and temperature conditions of the stomach aren't conducive to the extraction of the phenolic compounds from the skins and seeds of grapes. The conditions, temperatures and chemical reactions that occur between yeast, sugars, grape juice, skins, seeds and pulp all work together to produce maximum volumes of powerful antioxidants during fermentation. These factors are unique to wine.

How to Treat Cat Dandruff Naturally | Best Dog Foods

Cat dandruff can affect cats of any age and health level, causing discomfort, dryness, itchiness, and shedding. If you’ve noticed these little white flakes appearing in your cat’s coat, it could be the result of poor diet, parasites, an allergic reaction, or environmental factors. Often the cause of cat dandruff will determine how it should be treated. Many times, it can be treated naturally at home. However, in the case of allergies, or more serious underlying problems, a veterinarian should be consulted.

Humidifiers

Dry air in the home can be a contributing factor to cat dandruff (and skin problems for humans). Invest in a humidifier, and place it in the room that your cat frequents most often. Humidifying will not only reduce or remove cat dandruff; it also has the added benefit of reducing the chance of winter colds (for you and your cat).

Brushing

Regular brushing can eliminate, or significantly reduce, cat dandruff. While a normal pet brush will work to reduce flakes, most vets recommend using a double-row undercoat brush. These special brushes attract flakes, skin, dirt, and parasites that may be causing cat dandruff – from the topcoat and undercoat. Use at least once per day to relieve cat dandruff. If after a week, the problem has not improved, consider other options or see a vet – while the brushing is good for your cat’s coat, excess skin, hair and dirt may not be causing the cat dandruff.

Diet Changes

Cats obtain most of their water from the moisture in their food. If they are living on a diet of primarily dry cat food, this could be the problem. Slowly incorporate moist or wet cat food into your cat’s diet to eliminate cat dandruff. Begin by giving your cat ½ serving once per day. After one week, increase to one whole serving per day. If your cat dandruff is being caused by a moisture issue, this should clear it up quickly. Do not replace the dry food immediately right off the bat – slowly introduce it to prevent diarrhea and other digestive problems.

Fish Oil (Omega-3 Fatty Acids)

Fish oil will help tremendously if your cat is suffering from cat dandruff due to dry skin. The omega-3 fatty acids contained within the oil are necessary for a healthy skin and coat. Purchase high quality supplements and combine them with wet food to treat cat dandruff. One capsule per day is all that’s needed, and this may be separated into two or more doses throughout the day. Continue until the dandruff is gone, and then keep it away by continuing this treatment once per week.

what's best way to up omega 3's in dog & cat diets? I have two who hav slightly dry skin, not flakey but drier than cld b

What Can I Do For My Cat’s Dry Skin?

What Can I Do For My Cat’s Dry Skin?

Just saw cat's sister, n'aww.. she looks so old with her dry furry skin and just plodding along, ignoring everything too :L

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