Top 7 Common Skin Problems in Pets Every Pet Owner Should Know

Skin is the largest area of our body; however, pet owners tend to ignore it. There is a greater chance that pet owners are worried about lung, heart, and kidney problems than skin ailments. Yet, skin illness in dogs and cats (and their owners) can significantly impact the quality of their lives. Every veterinarian wishes pet owners to understand the common skin ailments that their dogs and cats, and other pets could suffer from and what they can do to treat and stop these conditions.

The Most Common Skin Problems in Pets

Although they may have different reasons and treatment options, various skin conditions may have similar clinical symptoms. In order to make your pet get 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 face:

Ringworm

Ringworm is an infection that causes swelling, hair loss, and itchy skin. Since it is contagious, it is crucial to treat it as quickly as you can. Additionally, ringworm may be transferred by humans. So be careful about touching any areas where it appears to be affected and clean your hands thoroughly after handling the affected pet.

Allergic Dermatitis

Allergies can be a problem for animals too. As with humans, animals can be allergic to certain foods such as pollens, molds, and dust mites. Ear and skin irritations and itchy skin can be allergic dermatitis reactions. Visit Columbia River vet for more detailed information.

Flea Allergies

The fleas and ticks can be irritating; however, they trigger allergic reactions in certain pets. Allergies to the saliva of fleas can cause redness, irritation, and itching of your pet’s skin when they are bitten by ticks or fleas. The affected area’s skin could also fall off or turn discolored, brittle, and dry. Visit the emergency vet Vancouver, WA in case of emergency.

Yeast Infection

Another reason for itchy or red skin is a yeast infection, which is usually found in the paws, ears, and folds. Fortunately, yeast infections aren’t contagious. The fungus that produces spores is always present on dogs’ skin within the normal range of life, typically in smaller amounts. The signs of a yeast infection result from a yeast located in a specific area.

Mange

Sarcoptic and demodectic are two varieties of mange. They both are caused due to an excess quantity of mites in or on the skin. Scabies is another term used to describe mange with sarcoptic symptoms. Sarcoptic mange is extremely painful and contagious and can affect people and animals. It doesn’t typically last long on humans. Cats can transmit this disease; however, this isn’t the case for dogs. Air loss, redness, and other symptoms are brought on by this parasite.

Lick Granuloma

As with hot spots, granulomas can be self-inflicted and chronically are caused by frequent licking of parts of their skin. The lick granulomas may cause hair loss, redness, and deep-seated infections. It can be caused by depression, boredom, lack of socialization, and stress, among other factors. It’s usually related to allergies; however, it could be caused by tumors, parasites, or other causes.

Hot Spots

If you think your pet has an illness that makes them bite, lick, or scratch a specific area of their body in excess, this can cause hot spots. The red, swollen spots found on canines could grow in size ranging from one-quarter to grapefruit size over a short time. A fluid discharge or pus can leak out from hot spots. Hot spots may also emit an unpleasant smell. Hair afflicted in the area can also be chewed or fall out.

If you go to a dog dermatologist in Vancouver, WA, they will look at your pet’s signs and diagnoses like allergy tests, skin scrapings, and microscopic examination to determine what kind of skin illness they’re most likely to suffer. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the dermatologist from your vet will suggest a treatment plan.