Watch for Signs of Scratching

If your pet scratches at their coat often, they may be dealing with skin irritation. Part your pet’s fur and look for signs of a visible rash. Rashes can be red or pink, or they may be skin-toned with raised bumps. A rash requires medication to clear it up in its entirety.

Look for the Presence of Fleas

Fleas can cause great distress to a pet. When fleas walk upon your pet’s skin, they will suffer from itchiness and irritation. They may bite or scratch at their skin in an attempt to find relief. This could cause sores upon the skin as a result. In addition to itchiness, fleas bite a pet’s skin. If your pet has a flea allergy, they may have raised bumps in areas where bites occurred. Our vet will treat the flea problem first to eradicate these pests. If the skin does not clear quickly after fleas are eliminated, medication may be necessary to treat it appropriately.

Avoid Bathing Your Pet Too Frequently

When you give your dog or cat a bath, their skin is stripped of natural oils necessary to keep the skin healthy. This can cause dryness of the skin. If your pet has flakes of skin in its fur, refrain from bathing sessions for a while.

Watch for Allergic Reactions

Allergies can cause skin problems. Some pets are allergic to fleas, causing the skin to break out in a rash. Others may be allergic to specific foods or elements in the environment. It is important to avoid triggers, so skin problems do not occur. If you are unsure about what is causing an allergic reaction, our vet will help you determine the trigger. Medication may be necessary to alleviate symptoms.

Check for Missing Fur Patches

When a pet bites or licks at jts fur constantly, it will eventually fall out. A pet may take to this type of behavior if they are dealing with a skin problem. Stress can also cause a pet to lose fur, so it is best to see our vet for an evaluation.

Contact St Louis Veterinary Center if your dog or cat is suffering from skin irritation or if it has a rash. Call us at 314-773-6400.

Yeast Infection

Pets can suffer from yeast infections on their paws, ears, and other skin folds. A yeast infection can cause a lot of itching and discomfort. Aim to care for these infections as quickly as you notice them.

Flea Allergies

Some pets are allergic to fleas. When fleas bite, the pet ends up with itchy red spots. It is not abnormal for affected pets to lose hair in that area, either.

Mange

Mites in or on a dog’s skin can cause both sarcoptic and demodectic mange. Sarcoptic mange is better known as scabies, and it is contagious to humans and pets. Demodectic mange is not contagious to humans.

Allergic Dermatitis

Allergies to dust, pollen, mold, and food can cause an itchy red rash on your pet, known as allergic dermatitis.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a common, contagious skin infection that can cause scales, hair loss, and inflammation. If you notice any of these symptoms, visit your vet as soon as possible.

Lick Granuloma and Hot Spots

Both of these skin problems are caused by your pet excessively licking or biting one particular spot over and over again. This typically happens in response to an infection or other medical condition. It is important to note that hot spots can swell up in a matter of hours, have a foul odor, and may ooze. Lick granulomas are a little less intense, though they can cause deep infections. If you notice your pet biting, licking, or scratching the same spot repeatedly, get to an animal hospital as soon as possible.