Pet Skin Conditions and Treatment
You love your pet. When your dog or cat is uncomfortable, you’re uncomfortable. So, when your pet has a skin problem, you want to cure it fast. Underneath their fur, dogs and cats have skin. And just like humans, pets are prone to skin problems.
Villiage Veterinary Clinic in Burke, Virginia, wants to give you a rundown on what might be going on with your pet’s skin and what you can do about it.
Your Pet's Skin
You love your pet. When your dog or cat is uncomfortable, you’re uncomfortable. So when your pet has a skin problem, you want to cure it, fast. Underneath their fur, dogs, and cats have skin. And just like humans, pets are prone to skin problems. Our Villiage Veterinary Clinic in Burke Virginia wants to share a run-down on what might be going on with your pet’s skin and what to do about it.
Dry Skin
Pets with dry skin often scratch themselves or over-groom. Several factors may cause dry skin in pets, including poor nutrition, dry weather, allergies, and shampoos. It is important to groom your pet regularly to prevent dry skin and to watch their diet.
Parasites
Unfortunately, pets are prone to infestation by several types of external parasites. The most common are fleas and ticks. Fleas are tiny insects that drink your pet’s blood. If you see your dog or cat scratching, check their fur for small, brown fleas. Fleas are treated with special shampoo. You’ll also have to meticulously clean your home to get rid of these pests. Ticks are arachnids that attach to your dog or cat’s skin when they go outdoors. Ticks can be safely removed using tweezers. Your veterinarian can recommend a preventative treatment for fleas and ticks so your pet doesn’t have to suffer an infestation.
Allergies
Just like people, dogs and cats can have allergies too. They can be allergic to certain foods, such as dairy, beef, eggs, and chicken. Pets can also develop environmental allergies, such as pollen, mold, and dust mites. Allergies can make your cat or dog’s skin inflamed and itchy.
Cat and Dog Skin Infections
Cat and dog skin infections can be caused by bacteria or yeast. Bacterial infections usually occur when your pet scratches their skin because of allergies or parasites. This breaks the skin, leading to infection. Yeast skin infections are fungal, and often plague pets in the warmer months. Cat and dog skin infections can be caused by bacteria or yeast. Bacterial infections usually occur when your pet scratches their skin because of allergies or parasites. This breaks the skin, leading to infection. Yeast skin infections are fungal, and often plague pets in the warmer months.
Treatments for Skin Problems
If you’re experiencing pet skin problems, you’re not alone. Luckily, we have several treatment options for your pet, depending on their skin condition. Dermatitis treatment may involve topical cream, antihistamines, corticosteroids, or anti-itch shampoo
Contact Our Village Veterinary Clinic in Burke, VA Today!
Your dog or cat doesn’t have to suffer from dry, itchy skin. If you suspect a skin condition, contact your vet as soon as possible. He or she will be able to make recommendations based on your pet’s individual needs. If you’re looking for an experienced pet dermatologist in Burke Virginia, look no further than Villiage Veterinary Clinic. Call us for an appointment today at 703-978-8655.