Providing your cat with the proper nutrients is an important step in maintaining its shiny, healthy coat. In addition to protein and calories, other vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, niacin, biotin and zinc serve key roles in a cat's skin and hair health. Recommendations for dietary concentrations of these nutrients are listed in the cat food profiles established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. These profiles suggest adequate amounts to meet the needs for skin and hair health. Diets with inadequate amounts of these nutrients are not likely to pass feeding trials conducted according to the AAFCO.
The bottom line: A quality, complete and balanced diet should provide sufficient amounts of all nutrients needed to support healthy growth of the skin and hair in the average cat.