Is your pet excessively scratching or biting his or her skin? It could be an allergy to the environment, a food sensitivity, or any one of a number of common skin conditions. Many skin conditions look the same, making a thorough exam and appropriate testing necessary to help your pet get relief.
Our veterinarians have significant experience treating pet allergies and skin conditions, and our advanced diagnostic tests make it easier to pinpoint the fungus, bacteria, or allergy affecting your pet.
Seasonal Allergies
Pollen, grass, mold spores, ragweed, and dust mites can trigger reactions in dogs and cats, just as they can in humans. Atopic dermatitis (an inflammatory skin condition caused by allergies) is one of the most common skin conditions affecting pets. Repeated biting and scratching can exacerbate the problem by creating irritated, moist skin that’s susceptible to bacterial infections. Prompt treatment for pet allergies can relieve painful itching and help prevent secondary infections and more serious dermatological problems.
Food Allergies
Common food allergens include beef and chicken byproducts, dairy, soy, wheat, and corn, all of which can make your dog or cat’s skin itch. Food allergies can also trigger stomach upset and ear inflammation. Pets with food allergies may bite or scratch their skin excessively, frequently bite or lick their paws, or drag their bottoms across the ground to relieve the itching.
Common Skin Conditions
When it comes to skin conditions like ringworm (a common fungal infection), prompt treatment is necessary to keep it from spreading to other pets and even humans. Ringworm will appear as circular lesions of bald, flaky skin on an animal’s limbs and head. Mange, another common condition, is caused by tiny parasites called mites. Symptoms include intense scratching and biting of the skin.
If you suspect your pet is suffering from an allergy or other skin condition, please contact us or schedule an appointment online. Dr. Murphy can identify the source of your pet’s discomfort and begin developing a customized treatment plan immediately. Depending on the cause of your pet’s discomfort, treatment plans might include reduced exposure to a seasonal allergen, a dietary change, and/or medication to help manage symptoms.
