The symptoms of your pet's skin problem can vary based on the cause. Common symptoms include itching, frequent scratching or licking, and rubbing their body or face on the floor. They may also have hair loss, a rash or bumps on the skin, skin lesions, and dry or flaky skin.
Common skin problems include allergies, parasites that infect the skin or ears, hot spots, and bacterial or fungal infections.
There are a few types of allergies that can cause skin irritation. Environmental allergens like dust, pollen, or grass can trigger skin issues. Food allergies are another potential cause. In addition to causing skin symptoms, food allergies can cause sneezing and gastrointestinal problems.
There are a few types of parasites that can affect your pet. The most common is fleas. Fleas are usually a nuisance, but if your pet has a flea allergy, they can experience excessive itching, skin irritation, and hair loss. Demodex mites are tiny parasites that cause mange. The symptoms include patches of hair loss, red skin, and excessive oil. Ear mites can also be an issue. As the name suggests, these parasites make their home in your pet's ear. They can cause the ears to itch and can lead to ear infections.
Skin infections are another potential cause of skin issues in pets. They can be caused by bacteria or fungi. They can be triggered by underlying conditions like allergies or a compromised immune system. Symptoms include flaky, crusty, or red skin, excessive itching, lesions, and hair loss.
Hot spots are also known as moist dermatitis. They start as small spots, similar to an insect bite. However, they spread into larger areas. You'll see patches of hair loss and sores that are moist or oozing.
If your pet has a skin problem, you'll need to visit the veterinarian. They will perform a pet exam to determine the cause of the issue. In addition to a physical exam, they may take skin cell samples or do blood work. They may also discuss your pet's symptoms and lifestyle.
If your pet is suffering from skin issues in Durham or Chapel Hill, call Vine Veterinary Hospital today at (919) 942-5117 to learn more or to schedule an appointment. We offer preventative care, sick visits, and emergency care to keep your pet feeling their best.
