Skin problems are extremely common and can be seen all over the world, especially in tropical humid weather. They can be very frustrating not only for the patient but also for pet owners and the veterinarian.
Types of dermatology issues:
1. Atopic dermatitis (Eczema)
2. Skin infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or virus
3. Parasitic infection-causing intense itch or focal irritations (ticks, fleas, mites)
4. Folliculitis
5. Acral lick Dermatitis
6. Seborrheic dermatitis
7. Itchy, flaky dry skin
8. Nail / footpad abnormalities
9. Skin issue associated with endocrine diseases
10. Immune-mediated skin disorders
11. Alopecia
12. Ear infections
There are many reasons behind the intense scratching and itching of your pets. These include atopy (food or environmental causes), bacterial or parasitic infection, immune-immune mediated disorders, or even behavioral components. And for certain types of skin issues, it might not be a once-off issue, or it could become a recurrent battle.
Nutritional factors
Certain food ingredients can trigger skin allergy which varies from individuals. Some dogs or cats might develop skin issues when being fed chicken and some might not. Any food could be an allergen, which includes beef, or certain dairy products. Gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea could also be seen with food allergy. It is important to seek veterinarian attention when things do not seem right.
Parasitic factors
Certain parasites can cause intense itches such as scabies, demodex, or fleas infestations, which could also lead to inflammation, hair loss, or dermatitis. A tick bite could cause a similar reaction but is usually less severe.
Environmental factors
Certain grass could irritate skin and cause itching in pets which are allergic to them. Excessive moisture (accompany by a variety of components, eg. heat) could predispose pets to develop hot spots which is painful and irritating skin issues. This could be observed more frequently with breeds with long hair or thick haircoat.
Environmental factors such as dust, mold, pollen, and other wind-borne antigens may also cause allergic reactions and make them feel itchy and uncomfortable, leading to skin wounds, irritation, and hair loss. Please also note that some pets could be allergic to perfume and cigarettes.
Professional Treatment
There are many different causes of skin problems. You shouldn’t use over-the-counter medicines by yourself, and the treatment must be guided by a professional veterinarian, and suitable medicine must be prescribed. (****** this does not happen in every clinic*****)
The veterinarian will go through a series of questions with you, which could include your pet’s usual feeding habit, itching intensity, and occasions. They will then perform a physical examination of your animal to make sure that the general health is fine. This will be followed by a very detailed skin and ear examination. Depending on the presentation, further investigations like cytology (evaluation of cells and microorganisms), trichogram (evaluation of the hair), and skin scrape (search for parasites, fungal structures) will be done. The veterinarian could discuss the results, underlying problem, and treatment together in detail.
Prevention method
- Find out the main causes of skin diseases (parasites, allergies, food, environmental, bacterial, fungal, immune-mediated, others)
- Keep the environment clean and dry
- Add in nutrition component (which could benefit skin health such as foods or supplements rich in Omega-3 (linseed, fish oil) or even topical supplements)
- Maintain a balanced diet
- Regular bathing (or as frequently as instructed by your veterinarian) to help remove allergic triggers or to help control skin infections
Appointment/Enquiry:
3650 3000 (Mon-Sun: 9:00am – 7:00pm)
Address:
G-2/F, Trinity Towers, 339 Lai Chi Kok Road, Sham Shui Po
Online booking for revisit with primary care veterinarians or vaccination:
https://www.cityuvmc.com.hk/en/online-booking