Skin issues are among the most common reasons pets are brought to the veterinarian. From itchy rashes to hair loss and sores, these conditions can cause discomfort and stress for both pets and their owners. Understanding the signs and underlying causes of skin conditions can help ensure your pet receives timely treatment and relief.
Allergies
Pets can suffer from allergies to environmental factors like pollen, dust mites, or mold. Food allergies and flea bites are also frequent culprits. Signs of allergies include constant scratching, licking, red or inflamed skin, and recurrent ear infections.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis
Just one flea bite can cause intense itching in pets that are allergic to flea saliva. This often leads to excessive scratching, skin redness, scabbing, and hair loss, especially around the base of the tail and hind legs.
Hot Spots
Hot spots are moist, inflamed areas of the skin that develop quickly and can be quite painful. They are often caused by scratching or licking at a particular area due to underlying irritation or allergies.
Fungal and Bacterial Infections
Conditions like ringworm, a fungal infection, or bacterial skin infections can result in hair loss, scaly patches, and sometimes a foul odor. These infections are often secondary to another issue like allergies or wounds that become infected.
Mange
Mange is caused by mites that infest a pet’s skin. Depending on the type of mite, symptoms can include intense itching, crusty skin, hair loss, and red or inflamed patches.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Accurately diagnosing a skin condition often involves a physical exam, reviewing the pet’s medical history, and diagnostic tests such as skin scrapings, cytology, or allergy testing. Once the cause is identified, treatments may include:
Medicated shampoos or topical creams
Antibiotics or antifungal medications
Flea prevention treatments
Dietary changes or hypoallergenic diets
Immunotherapy for environmental allergies
In many cases, long-term management is necessary to prevent recurrence. Your veterinarian will tailor a treatment plan based on your pet’s specific needs and condition severity.
Schedule Your Pet’s Wellness Exam Today
Skin conditions can affect your pet's comfort, health, and overall happiness. While some issues may seem minor at first, they can quickly escalate without proper treatment. With early diagnosis and a customized care plan, most skin problems can be effectively managed or resolved.
If you’re concerned about your pet’s skin health, contact Highland Veterinary Clinic to schedule a comprehensive skin evaluation. Visit our office in Evansville, Indiana, or call (812) 710-4300 today.
