The skin is the largest organ, and it can also be the most troublesome if it is not happy. Dermatologic problems are one of the most common reasons pets come to visit us here at Sky Canyon Animal Hospital. Luckily we are equipped to help diagnose and treat a wide variety of pet skin problems.
Causes of Skin Problems in Dogs and Cats
There are a lot of different reasons that a pet’s skin may be less than healthy. Whether it is itchy, stinky, or sore, it is our team’s job to get to the bottom of your pet skin problem woes so that we can appropriately manage them.
Common reasons that a pet may be experiencing trouble with his or her skin include:
- Parasites — One of the most common causes of pet itching is the flea. Some pets are very sensitive to flea saliva. In these pets, just one bite can set off an allergic reaction with major consequences. Other parasites like skin mites (sarcoptic and demodectic mange) can also result in issues.
- Infection — Bacteria and yeast live on the skin all the time, but when conditions are right, they may begin to grow out of control. This can result in itching, swelling, and a bad odor.
- Allergies — People who suffer from allergies often have respiratory issues, while pets more often experience dermatological reactions. Airborne allergens, environmental allergens, and food sensitivities can all result in pet skin problems.
- Atopic dermatitis — Some pets suffer from an abnormal skin immune system resulting in multiple allergic sensitivities. There is likely a genetic component to this diagnosis.
- Endocrine disease — The skin is very influenced by hormones, and problems of the endocrine system like low thyroid hormone or increased steroid production (Cushing's syndrome) can cause skin issues.
Why Does My Pet Have Itchy Skin and What to Do
Skin problems can be very frustrating for everyone involved. Bringing your pet in for an exam and diagnostic testing can help us to get to the bottom of the issue. When we know what we are up against, we are usually able to find effective treatment options.
There are some things that you can do at home, however, to help a pet with skin trouble.
- Keep your pet on quality, veterinary-recommended flea prevention. Even if fleas aren’t the primary problem, pets with skin problems don’t need any additional trouble.
- Feed a good quality diet.
- Keep up to date on your pet’s wellness visits and recommended lab work.
- Remove allergens and soothe skin by bathing with a recommended shampoo.
- Keep your pet groomed to decrease allergen accumulation in fur.
- Use a good quality omega fatty acid supplement to maintain skin health (ask for dosing information).
- Utilize foot soaks to help paw-licking pets.
- Reduce allergens in the home by vacuuming and mopping regularly.
- Minimize allergens in the home with air filters and avoid perfumes, aerosols, and smoke.
Pet skin problems are never fun, but your friends at Sky Canyon Animal Hospital are here to help. Let us help you with your furry friend’s skin problems so we can get everyone more comfortable faster.