As you comb your fingers through your pet’s thick fur, you may find scaly skin, an oozing sore, or a lump you swear you’ve never felt before. Skin issues occur commonly in cats and dogs, and correct identification is essential for effective treatment. Here, our Heartland Veterinary Hospital team explores common pet skin conditions, their signs, and their management or treatment.

#1: Flea allergy dermatitis in pets

Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) is one of the most common skin conditions in pets. Affected pets are hypersensitive to the protein in flea saliva, so only a handful of flea bites can cause intense discomfort. 

FAD signs in pets may include:

  • Excessive scratching, licking, and chewing
  • Red, inflamed skin
  • Hair loss, especially around the tail and lower back

The best way to prevent allergic reactions in pets affected by FAD is year-round flea prevention use. All household pets need flea preventives, and the environment may also need to be treated to eliminate an infestation.

#2: Hot spots in pets

Acute moist dermatitis (i.e., hot spots) are painful, rapidly developing areas of skin inflammation and infection. They can be triggered by various factors, including insect bites, allergies, or trauma to the skin, such as a chafing collar or excessive scratching.

Hot spots appear as red, moist, and inflamed lesions that cause significant discomfort and can erupt seemingly overnight. Pets will constantly lick or chew at the affected area.

Hot spot treatment involves clipping the fur from the area, along with cleaning and drying the affected skin. Topical or oral antibiotics may be needed to treat an infection, while anti-inflammatory medications can reduce the discomfort. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause is important to prevent future hot spot development.

#3: Mange in pets

Mange is caused by mites that burrow in the skin, leading to intense itching and discomfort. Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious, while demodectic mange is typically seen in young or immunocompromised pets.

Pets with mange often lose hair and have scaly, inflamed skin. While sarcoptic mange makes pets intensely itchy, demodectic mange is not as severe.

Oral, injectable, or topical medications may be prescribed to kill mange mites. Disinfecting the environment is also key to preventing sarcoptic mange reinfection. 

#4: Ringworm in pets

Despite its name, ringworm is not a worm, but a highly contagious fungal infection that can spread to other pets and people.

Pets who develop ringworm may display:

  • Circular, hairless patches
  • Scaly or crusty skin
  • Itchiness

Ringworm treatment requires topical or oral antifungal medications and thoroughly cleaning the pet’s environment. 

#5: Allergies in pets

In addition to flea bite allergies, pets can also suffer from environmental (e.g., pollen, dust mites), food (e.g., chicken, lamb, fish, eggs), and contact (e.g., certain materials or chemicals) allergies.

Pets with allergies often have:

  • Itchy, red, and inflamed skin
  • Chronic ear infections
  • Gastrointestinal issues caused by food allergies

While allergies cannot be cured, they can be managed successfully by identifying and avoiding allergens. To keep your allergic pet comfortable, we may prescribe medicated shampoos, topical therapies, prescription diets, or various allergy medications. 

#6: Pyoderma in pets

Pyoderma is a bacterial skin infection that can be caused by underlying conditions, such as allergies, hormonal imbalances, or immune system issues. 

Affected pets may develop:

  • Pustules or pimple-like lesions
  • Skin redness and inflammation
  • Hair loss

Treatment focuses on topical or oral antibiotics and identifying and managing the underlying cause.

#7: Skin tumors in pets

Skin tumors can be benign (i.e., non-cancerous) or malignant (i.e., cancerous). Early detection and treatment are crucial to avoid skin infections, irritation, or metastasis.

Skin tumors can appear as lumps or masses that may bleed or become ulcerated and change in size, shape, or color, indicating potential malignant development.

Depending on your pet’s skin tumor type, surgical removal may be recommended, along with chemotherapy or radiation for malignant tumors.

Maintaining your pet’s skin health is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being. Regular grooming, a healthy diet, regular preventive care, and prompt attention to any skin changes can help prevent many of these conditions. If you notice a questionable spot on your pet’s skin, schedule an appointment with our Heartland Veterinary Hospital team as soon as possible.