Dermatology Issues In Pets

Just like humans, dogs and cats can suffer from dermatology problems ranging from mild to severe, many of which need professional treatment to prevent the condition from becoming worse. Skin issues may cause extreme discomfort for your furry animal, especially in warm weather when allergies are more active. Some skin complications, such as rash and irritation, may be caused by an underlying condition, so it’s vital to seek medical attention from our veterinarians in McMurray at Pleasant Valley Veterinary Clinic. Below are some of the most common types of skin conditions in pets.

Symptoms of Dermatology Issues

The most obvious symptom of a dermatology problem is itching. Without a veterinary examination, it’s difficult to determine what caused it. While it’s common for pets to occasionally itch, frequent and extreme itching is a tell-tale sign of a severe issue. Other dermatology complications may include:

Dry skin
Rash
Skin sores
Redness
Hair loss
Bumps on the ski

If you notice your dog or cat is experiencing any of the above symptoms, be sure to make an appointment with a veterinarian right away. Pets often scratch the infected area to the extreme to relieve the symptoms, but excessive scratching can lead to open skin and infection. 

Common Causes of Skin Conditions

Many factors can bring about the above symptoms. Below are a few known triggers:

• Environmental allergies: Pollen, mold, and dust can make your pet to experience sudden onset of itching in the feet, stomach, or face
• Food allergies: Often caused when there is a sudden change in your pet’s diet, especially when introduced to food items like eggs, dairy, or wheat
• Folliculitis: This is a condition where the hair follicles are inflamed. Folliculitis is sometimes a symptom of other issues such as mange or an allergy
• Parasites: Ticks and fleas are the most common source of dermatology issues in pets. If your pet has fleas or ticks, he or she will scratch, chew, and bite at the skin. Your furry animal will need treatment to avoid the risk of infection.
• Dandruff: This is a common cause of itching in pets. While it is typically treated with special shampoos, it’s still essential to have our vet check it to ensure there isn’t an underlying issue.

Keep in mind that symptoms, such as itching, rash, and irritation, are the result of a condition that may become complicated without treatment. For instance, itching that is caused by an allergic reaction may lead to an infection. Routinely inspect your pet’s skin to ensure there are no problems.

Stop the Itching, Irritation, or Rash With The Help of Our Expert Veterinarians

If you suspect your pet has a dermatology problem, contact Pleasant Valley Veterinary Clinic in McMurray at (724) 941-5484 to schedule an evaluation. Our doctors can offer you advice and treatment for the dermatology issue, freeing your beloved animal from constant itching.