Every person knows that skin is the largest body area; however, pet owners often neglect it. It is more likely that pet owners are worried about lung, heart, and kidney problems than skin ailments. But, skin illness in dogs and cats (and their owners) can significantly impact the quality of their lives. Every veterinarian wishes pet owners to know about the most common skin ailments their pets might suffer from and what they can do to treat and stop these conditions.
The Most Common Skin Problems in Pets
While they have various reasons and treatments, several skin diseases may share similar clinical symptoms. To make your pet better, a dermatologist from a vet can diagnose and treat skin issues. Here are a few of some of the most common skin problems that pets suffer from:
Ringworm
Ringworm is an infection that causes scalp scaling, hair loss, and itchy skin. Since it is contagious, you need to treat it as soon as you can. Additionally, ringworm may be passed by humans. So you should avoid touching any areas which appear to be affected and cleanse your hands after handling the affected pet. Learn more about veterinary dermatology right here.
Allergic Dermatitis
Allergies can be a problem for animals too. Like humans, animals may be allergic to certain foods such as molds, pollens, and dust mites. Ear and skin irritations and itchy skin are just a few possible reactions to allergic dermatitis.
Flea Allergies
The fleas and ticks can be irritating; however, they trigger allergic reactions in certain pets. Allergies to the smell of flea saliva could cause redness, irritation, and itching of your pet’s skin after being bitten by ticks or fleas. The fur of the affected area can also fall out or turn discolored, brittle, and dry.
Yeast Infection
Another reason for itchy or red skin is a yeast infection, which is usually found in the paws, ears, and folds. Luckily, yeast infections aren’t infectious. The fungus that produces spores is always present on dogs’ skin in the ordinary flora course, generally in small amounts. The yeast infection symptoms are the result of a yeast located in a specific area.
Mange
Sarcoptic and demodectic are two varieties of mange. Each is caused by an over quantity of mites in or on the skin. Scabies is a different name for mange that is sarcoptic. Sarcoptic mange can be extremely irritating and contagious and affect people and animals. But, it does not usually last long in humans. Cats can transmit the disease; however, this isn’t the case for dogs. The appearance of redness, loss of air, and other signs are caused by this fungus.
Lick Granuloma
Like hot spots, lick granulomas are self-inflicted, chronic wounds caused by frequent licking of parts of their skin. The lick granulomas may cause hair loss, redness, and severe infections. The cause can be depression, boredom, absence of social interaction, and stress, among other factors. It’s typically linked to allergies; however, it could be caused by tumors, parasites, or other causes. You can visit 24 hour emergency vet in in Vancouver WA, in case of an emergency.
Hot Spots
If your pet encounters an underlying condition that makes them bite, lick, or scratch a specific area of their body in excess, this can cause hot spots. The red, swollen spots on dogs can range in size ranging from one-quarter and grow to the size of grapefruits within an extremely short time. Pus, or a fluid discharge, could leak out of hot spots. Hot spots may also emit an unpleasant odor. The hair in the affected area could fall or be chewed out.
The Columbia River Veterinary specialists will look at your pet’s signs and diagnoses like allergy tests, skin scrapings, and microscopic examination to determine what kind of skin condition they’re likely to suffer from. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the dermatologist from your vet will prescribe a treatment program.
