When your pet’s skin is red, flaky, or covered in bumps, it’s easy to assume it’s just dry skin or an insect bite. Persistent skin issues often point to a deeper problem, like dermatitis. Dermatitis is a general term veterinarians use for skin inflammation, and it can cause serious discomfort if left untreated. Animal Cove Pet Hospital wants to help owners get to the root of their pet’s skin problems so they can stop itching and scratching.
What Does It Mean if a Pet Has Dermatitis?
Dermatitis simply means “inflammation of the skin,” and the causes can vary widely. Dermatitis in pets can be triggered by allergies, parasites, infections, or even underlying health conditions. The inflammation may appear suddenly or develop over time, and it often comes with relentless itching, redness, or scabbing.
Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
While a pet occasionally scratching themselves is normal, the following symptoms could indicate dermatitis:
- Persistent itching or licking
- Red, irritated, or flaky skin
- Scabs or sores
- Hair loss in affected areas
- Foul odor from the skin
- Behavioral changes, such as irritability or restlessness
Causes of Pet Dermatitis
There are many, many causes of dermatitis in cats and dogs. These are just a few of the types.
Allergic Dermatitis / Atopic Dermatitis
Triggered by environmental allergens like pollen, mold, or dust mites, or food ingredients such as beef, chicken, or dairy.
Parasitic Dermatitis
Caused by fleas, mites, or ticks. Even one flea bite can cause an allergic reaction known as flea allergy dermatitis.
Contact Dermatitis
Caused by direct skin contact with irritants such as cleaning products.
Pyotraumatic Dermatitis
This type of dermatitis is also known as a “hot spot” or sometimes “moist dermatitis.” Moisture and chewing in the area often lead to the growth of bacteria around a red lesion.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
A condition that causes flaky, greasy skin due to overproduction of skin oils, sometimes linked to genetic factors.
How is Dermatitis Diagnosed in Cats and Dogs?
Diagnosing dermatitis is about finding the cause. If your pet has a skin issue, call your vet to ask about urgent services. A veterinarian will review your pet’s medical history and ask questions about symptoms that you have noticed at home. They will also perform a thorough examination of your pet’s skin and coat. Depending on what case is suspected, the vet may:
- Using skin scrapings or cytology to check for parasites or yeast
- Conduct allergy testing or elimination diet trials
- Run lab work to rule out hormonal or metabolic conditions
In certain cases, the veterinarian may refer your pet to a veterinary dermatologist for specialized care.
Relief for Pets with Dermatitis in Foster City, CA
Dermatitis can make life miserable for pets, but it is often highly treatable once the cause is identified. Animal Cove Pet Hospital has veterinary services for pets with skin concerns in Foster City and from nearby areas like San Mateo, Redwood City, and Belmont. If your pet has been scratching, licking their paws, or showing signs of skin irritation, contact us to schedule a skin consultation.
