6 Primary Reasons for Skin Problems in Dogs

Skin problems are one of the major reasons for which dog owners take their furry pals to veterinarians. Itchiness can result in skin problems that can cause a lot of discomfort to the dogs. Sometimes, skin problems may even be a sign of an underlying medical problem with the furry pal.

Let us now look at the primary reasons for skin problems in dogs:

Fleas

Dogs are sensitive to fleas which can cause allergies leading to serious skin disease. Remember, flea allergies can be very fatal. The other important thing is that even if there are no fleas on the fur of your pet you need to be very careful about these pesky parasites. Dogs that are allergic to flea saliva become very itchy after getting bitten. Hence, it is recommended to use Flea Preventive Treatments under the supervision of the veterinarian that will aid in preventing itchiness connected with flea allergy dermatitis. Along with the dog, you also need to treat the surrounding environment. Remember, 90% of flea population resides on the body of the dog hence, it is extremely critical to treat those areas where the pet spends most of its time including pet bedding. If your pet is welcome indoors, ensure that you vacuum the house.

Mange

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Mange is caused by different species of mites. Mite infections are non-seasonal which can happen year round. There are certain species of mites that can be seen in the skin and hair follicles of the dog. Mite infection can be observed by looking at the skin lesions that occur anywhere on the dog's body. Demodectic mange results in hair loss, sores, and bald spots. It may even cause intense itch coupled with reddened skin, sores and hair loss.

Ringworm

Ringworm is not caused by a worm but by a fungal infection. It can spread from one animal to another and even to human beings. Hence, it is extremely important to take the advice of your veterinarian if you suspect ringworm infection in your pet. Ringworm lesions can be seen in the form of crusty, circular bald patches. The Treatment of Ringworm Infection can be done with the help of a medicated shampoo or oral treatment which is contingent on the severity of an infection.

Food Allergies

Dogs get allergic to the food that they eat. Food allergies are commonly related to protein. Some of the ingredients are the major culprit encompass dairy, beef, chicken and egg. Dogs that are suffering from food allergies normally have itchy skin on the ears, face, feet and around the anus. There are certain dogs that also show gastrointestinal signs of food allergies like vomiting and increased bowel movements. If your dog is diagnosed with food allergy, he will be exclusively fed a diet that is not allergic for a period of 8-12 weeks. This diet is selected by the veterinarians and can contain proteins that the dog is not allergic to or a commercially hydrolyzed diet. If your dog is taking part in the food elimination trial it is important not to feed him any treats or human food as it can have adverse effects on the results.

Bacterial Skin Infections

Bacterial skin infections are often connected to a complication that comes up when the dog is suffering from another allergy caused by fleas, their environment or food. It can happen when the doggy stretches and breaks open the skin enabling bacteria to infect an open wound. Take the pet to the veterinarian to determine the type of infection and treatment of the infection.

Dandruff 

Dogs also suffer from dandruff just like human beings. Dandruff in dogs can be mainly attributed to dry skin or skin irritation. Remember, the quality of food that is fed to the dogs can also have an impact on their skin and coat. The skin and coat of the dog are constantly being shed and replaced. The reason for that is the skin needs a high amount of proteins. Hence, feeding the dog a diet comprising of high-quality sources of protein is critical for healthy skin and coat. The diet should also comprise of Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids, vitamins and minerals that aid in supporting healthy skin and coat of the dog.

If you observe skin problems in your dog, immediately take him to the veterinarian. So, is your doggy suffering from skin problems due to the reasons mentioned in this write-up?

What Can You Do To Cope With Allergies in Cat ?

Many owners have got cat allergies, but don't want to get rid of felines. So what can we do now? Not to worry, if don't want to get of your kitty, here are some solutions and idea to aid you cope with an allergy to cats. The best way is to remove the offending allergens from the environment.

Steps To Cope With Allergies in Cat

Protect Cat from Fleas:

                 Protect Cat from Fleas

Protect your cat from fleas. Start a monthly flea treatment for your cats for the whole year or before the season starts. If your pet is an outdoor cat, she can not only be exposed but can carry predators on herself and to home. You can start flea treatments such as Frontline Plus, Advocate, Bravecto, Revolution etc.

Dust Free Cat's Litter:

Dust Free Cat's Litter

Make sure to use unscented and dust free litter as the cat can get allergies due to the chemicals in scented litter.

Clean Home for Cat:

Clean Home for Cat

If dust is causing your cat's allergic symptoms, clean all carpets, rugs, curtains and other material that gather dust, twice weekly. Vacuum all the things even your bedding's and your pet's bedding once a week. It is necessary to clean, as the carpets, rugs bedding's trap cat hair and dander profusely.

Bath Your Cat:

Bath Your Cat

Give a bath to your cat once two to three weeks regularly. This will help to remove the environmental allergens, relieve itchiness and pollen's from the skin. You can take the advice from your vet to suggest a shampoo for your pet, which can be used frequently to give her bath on regular intervals.

Handle Cat Food Allergy: 

Cat Food Allergy

If you think your cat may be having food allergy, contact your vet as she may need to put on a prescription or hydrolyzed protein diet. After the diagnosis, your vet will recommend home cooked diet or some other specific foods for your cat.

Fresh Air for Cat:

Fresh Air for Cat

The most important thing you can do is get some fresh air by keeping the windows open to increase the ventilation and you even run the exhaust fans. It is better to get fresh air, as the highly insulated homes trap allergens as well as heat. But keep one thing in mind to always screen windows so that your kitty don't runway and be safe indoors. You can also use HEPA filter, which will help to remove all the allergens present, in the air inside your home.

Following the above tips will surely make a difference and there will be no need to get rid of your cat due to her allergens.