Skin Problems in Pets: A Basic Guide

Your cat or dog has recently started scratching, biting or licking certain areas daily. You've begun to notice red marks or a loss of fur in places. These are the first two warning signs that your pet has a skin problem. But what type of skin problem? There are five common skin problems in pets. Each with a different cause and treatment. These skin problems fall into the categories of Pyoderma, Ectoparasites, Irritant Contact Dermatitis, Autoimmune Diseases and Secondary Skin Diseases. We'll cover each one as they are listed above.

The first skin problem found in pets is Pyoderma. This skin disorder includes a range of infections which vary in their severity. A usual sign of this pet skin problem is the formation of pus. The treatment of Pyoderma is similar to what you would do for hot spots, but is more longterm. Shampoos and similar items are helpful here.

The next skin problem found in pets is Ectoparasites, or external parasites. This category includes mites, ticks and fleas. What happens is that when these critters break the barrier formed by your pets skin this can allow bacterial infections. This also can lead to allergic reactions. Signs of this pet skin problem can be observed by the human eye or by microscopic exams from skin scrapings. Looking closely at the affected area you can spot tiny bumps or often movement along the skin. Treatments of Ectoparasites depend on the type of parasite and often include medication such as Frontline, or shapmpoos such as OxyDex.

Next in line is the Irritant Contact Dermatitis skin problem in pets. These are the contact allergies such as allergies to pollen, dust, wool, bee stings or mold among others. Signs of allergies include itching, rubbing or licking affected areas extensively. The area around the paws and face are the two most common sites for outbreaks. The treatments for allergies include washing the exposed area to remove the irritation, and in severe cases the use of medication such as steroids for a short time.

The next two types of skin problems in pets are internal. The first of these is the Autoimmune Skin Disorders. There are many types of skin problems in this category. Food allergies are among the most common although other inhaled allergies can also cause this skin problem. Acne, hair loss, excessive dandruff, blisters and dry cracked skin are signs of this type of skin problem. Treatments can include a combination of diet supplements, steroids and medication.

The final type of skin problems in pets the category of Secondary Skin Diseases. This pet skin problem includes disorders such as hypothyroidism and gland disorders. Your pet often will need blood testing, biopsies and X-rays to find these problems. Often the skin problem in your pet is not the original condition. Treating the original condition will improve the skin problem.