Pet skin problems can occur for a variety of reasons. They can be extremely painful or irritating to your pets, which is why it is so important to know what to look out for.
What Are Common Pet Skin Problems?
Skin problems are usually caused by fleas, mites, or parasites that burrow into the skin and cause it to become inflamed. It also makes the skin very itchy. When pets continue to scratch, the skin becomes more irritated, and when their skin breaks, the spot can become infected.
They can also be caused by food allergies. If your pet is experiencing other signs of digestive allergies in addition to skin irritation, then you and your veterinarian will have to rule out what ingredient is causing the skin problems. Other causes of skin problem also include environmental allergens from weeds, grasses, pollens, trees, molds, house dust mites and even cats.
How Can I Tell If My Pet Has A Skin Problem?
While your pet can’t tell you directly, you will start to notice some behaviors such as pawing or rubbing at the itchy spot, as well as paw licking and other favoring a specific area on their skin. They will also be scratching. If severe enough, they will break the skin, which will lead to scabbing and sores that may continue to bleed or weep fluid.
Another sign is hair loss. There are a variety of causes of hair loss including parasites such Demodex mites, which is the cause of what’s commonly known as mange. The mites burrow in the tissue under the skin and in the hair follicles, which then leads to patches of hair falling out. In severe cases, these mites will also cause scaly skin and bleeding, crusting lesions. Unfortunately, it will also spread if you don’t see a veterinarian right away.
What Are The Symptoms For Common Pet Skin Problems?
Sores, hot spots, loss of fur, redness, and swelling are all signs of skin problems. You may also notice that your pet is pawing, licking, and scratching themselves more often. If your pet has broken the skin, you may also notice blood on walls, the legs of your furniture, or other places where your pet tried to rub itself.
What Should I Do If I Believe My Pet Has A Skin Problem?
It’s especially important to see a vet soon before the scratching leads to scarring on your pet. If the cause of your pet’s discomfort is a parasitic infection, then the only way to cure them is to give them the proper medication. A vet can also show you how to administer doses at home.
If left untreated, the condition will not only spread, but it will lead to scarring on your pet. It is also extremely painful for them, so give us a call if your pet is having skin problems so we can evaluate them and get them back in good health. You can also ask about flea and tick treatment and prevention baths, or what monthly prevention methods you can use to prevent them from becoming attracted to and staying on your pet’s fur or skin.