Pet Dermatology Services
Even though our pets are furry, they still have sensitive skin. Unfortunately, because their skin is covered we don’t always notice the issues they’re having right away. The longer skin allergies or infections go untreated, the worse it can get. At Hanover Veterinary Hospital in Cedar Lake, we can provide pet dermatology testing and treatment for a number of common pet skin issues.
Skin Allergies
Did you know cats and dogs have allergies, just like humans? One of the most common pet allergens is fleas. Flea bites cause an allergic reaction called allergic dermatitis, which results in extreme irritation and itching.
Other common pet allergens include:
- Pollen
- Mold
- Food ingredients
- Household allergens such as dust, detergents, perfumes, etc.
Unlike humans, who usually have respiratory reactions to allergens, pets’ allergies most commonly lead to skin problems. While sneezing and watery eyes can be issues for animals, the most common symptom of pet allergies is itchy skin. This discomfort makes pets scratch, which in turn damages their skin and leaves it open to infection. If you suspect your pet is suffering from allergies, contact us to set up a dermatological exam.
Skin Infections
In addition to allergies, your pet's skin can also be susceptible to a number of bacterial and fungal infections. While infections can happen to any pet, they often occur in conjunction with allergies, since irritated skin and self-induced cuts from scratching are vulnerable to germs.
Ears are another common site for infection which can be examined during a dermatology appointment. Many of these infections have symptoms similar to allergies but can be treated with antibiotics. Not only can skin infections cause your pet intense discomfort, they can create more serious health complications if left untreated. Some infections are also contagious to humans, so if you notice your pet exhibiting symptoms, seek treatment immediately to protect the human and animal members of your family.
Signs Your Pet has a Skin Problem
Schedule a pet dermatology appointment if you notice your cat or dog exhibiting any of the following symptoms:
- Continuous licking or scratching
- Paw licking
- Red, inflamed skin
- Hairless patches
- Dry, scaly patches of skin
- Dandruff
- Greasy coat
- Persistent, unpleasant odor
- Scaly, circular patches on the face or body
- Sores on the skin
- Constant shaking of head or pawing of ears
Dermatology Diagnostics
Since allergies have so many causes and often have symptoms similar to infections, it can be difficult to diagnose skin problems by sight alone. Therefore, Hanover Veterinary Hospital has a number of tests we can run to pinpoint the exact cause of your pet’s skin difficulties, including:
- Skin Cytology (cell analysis to diagnose infections or signs of allergic reactions)
- Serum allergy testing
- Skin scrapings (samples tested-in house for infections)
- Fungal culture
- Food allergy testing through elimination diet trials
Treatments
While there is no permanent cure for allergies, there are a number of treatments available which can control them. These treatments ease your pet’s discomfort, minimizes the risk of secondary infections, and helps subside worry about your pet.
Some of the treatments we can provide at Hanover Veterinary Hospital include:
- Atopica (medication that relieves atopic dermatitis in cats and dogs)
- Apoquel (fast-acting, allergy medication to stop itching in)
- Cytopoint (long-lasting injectable immune therapy)
- Prescription diets
- Antibiotics
- Flea treatments
If your pet is scratching or showing other symptoms of a skin condition, call us at (219) 374-9443. Set up an appointment today and get relief for them and your family.
