PET HEALTH By Dr. Scot Trefz, D.V.M.
Allergies, parasites, and infections can cause a variety of itchy skin conditions in pets. The most common include:
Flea Bite Dermatitis – Fleas will feed on any warm-blooded mammal. Symptoms include round, red bumps on the skin, hot spots, scabs, and hair loss. You may even be able to see fleas or flea “dirt” in their coats. Fleas can spread to other animals including your pet rabbit, ferret, hamster, gerbil, or guinea pig. Treatment – Flea collars, sprays, baths, and ointments can kill fleas, but before using a flea product on a young, old, sick, or small animal, check with your veterinarian first. Some products may be toxic for these pets. Prescription chews, pills, and topical treatments kill mature fleas and larvae and should be used year-round to prevent infestations.
Ringworm – Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes raised, red rings on the skin. Other signs and symptoms include a circular pattern of hair loss, dandruff, and scaly, crusty skin. Ringworm can be transmitted to people by pets. If your pet has ringworm, wash your hands after touching your furry friend and wash his or her bedding, dishes, brushes, and combs frequently. Treatment – Creams, ointments, and medicated shampoo ease ringworm symptoms. Oral anti-fungal medication may be added.
Allergic or Nutritional Dermatitis – Pets can suffer from allergies that can develop at any time in your pet’s life. Red, blistered, thick skin along with hair loss can be a signs of allergic dermatitis. This condition tends to make pets very uncomfortable. They scratch, rub against furniture or carpeting, or bite and lick their skin. Your pet may be allergic to pollen, ragweed, dust mites, mold, other airborne allergens or their food. Dermatitis can also occur if pets eat food that doesn’t meet their nutritional needs. Treatment – Treatment for dermatitis depends on the cause, but may include immunotherapy, change in diet, antihistamines, medicated shampoo, soothing topical medication, corticosteroids, antibiotics or antifungal medication to treat infections that occur as a result of frequent scratching or licking.
Scabies – Scabies (sarcoptic mange) occurs when microscopic mites find a home in your pet’s skin. Severe itching, rashes, red or flaky skin, and patchy hair loss can be signs of scabies. Although the infection frequently affects dogs, cats can get it too. Scabies is very contagious and can be spread through close contact with other animals. Wash your pet’s bedding and favorite resting spots frequently. In some cases, scabies can affect people. You may notice red bumps on your skin if your pet transmitted mites to you. Treatment – Your veterinarian can prescribe several treatments that kill the mites and ease your pet’s uncomfortable symptoms, including topical medications, injections, shampoos, and antibiotic and anti-inflammatory medication.
Bay Moorings Animal Hospital • Dr. Scot Trefz, D.V.M., Medical Director & Owner • 727-867-0118 • 3695 50th Ave South, St. Petersburg, FL 33711
www.baymooringsanimalhospital.com • facebook.com/baymooringsanimalhospitaldrtrefz