Dermatitis is a skin disease that can affect dogs and cats and manifests itself through inflammation and infections that spread throughout the body of cats.
There are several causes that lead them to contract this condition, and some can be avoided. That’s why it’s always important to know everything we should do so that our four-legged friends don’t have their health harmed.
About the symptoms, they vary according to the cause, but it mainly comes from fungi and bacteria, so itching is always present in cases of dermatitis in dogs and cats .
But since this habit is very common in dogs and cats, we shouldn’t think that any scratching is about dermatological problems. So let’s actually recognize it right now!
What are the symptoms of dermatitis in dogs and cats?
Fortunately, dermatitis is easy to identify, but it’s important that it happens as soon as possible. After all, the sooner the treatment begins, the more efficient it is, the faster it is, and the less the pet suffers from the discomfort of the disease.
So watch out for these symptoms:
- frequent itching;
- skin peeling;
- redness;
- inflammation;
- canine otitis ;
- skin hyperpigmentation;
- hair loss, which may even have flaws in certain regions;
- change in the appearance of the skin;
- excessive licking and for no apparent reason.
It’s not a rule: your dog or cat can have one, two, or more symptoms, so it’s always important to take them to a specialist.
Our role as a tutor is to observe and seek help, not to diagnose and treat them, okay?
What are the causes of dermatitis in dogs and cats?
dermatitis in dogs
Bacterial or fungal infection: these are the most common causes, and like many other diseases, these tiny pets can cause pets a lot of trouble. In that case, it’s good to be aware of both itches and wounds.
Allergy: allergy is also one of those responsible for dermatitis in dogs and cats, especially to certain foods and even to some fabrics in clothes and blankets.
Parasites: fleas and ticks are always feared by tutors, as they give a lot of headaches, as they cause a lot of discomfort in our kittens. But in addition, they also bring with them some diseases such as those of the skin.
Chemicals: Ever used too much bleach and your eyes started to sting? Or else, did some shampoo cause flaking on the scalp? This also happens with pets, which can react to hygiene products or to those we use to wash their clothes, blankets and environments that they stay in the most.
Genetics: this is the only cause that cannot be completely prevented, as it is impossible to change the genetic predisposition of these breeds to dermatitis:
- French bulldog;
- Spitz;
- Shih Tzu;
- Lhasa Apso;
- Labrador;
- Maltese;
- Boxers;
- Dalmatians;
- German Shepherd;
- Pug;
As for cats:
- Burmese;
- Siamese.
Stress: dermatitis in dogs and cats also signal that your little friend is stressed, that’s because they tend to lick their paws a lot and some body parts to relieve stress. And so, licking becomes the cause of the disease as well as a symptom.
How to treat the symptoms of this disease?
The use of drugs is one of the alternatives to treat it, but this should only be taken into account if this is indicated by the veterinarian.
So never medicate your puppy or feline on your own, under any circumstances, okay? In these cases, the medications most often prescribed by professionals are antihistamines and corticoids.
However, topical treatment is also essential, and the use of hygiene products, ointments, creams and sprays suitable for sensitive skin or skin with some type of infection/allergy is recommended.
In some cases, changing the feed is necessary because of allergies to certain components that cause dermatitis.
Although it can be alleviated with all these treatment options, it is best to avoid all causes. Want to know how?
How to prevent dermatitis in dogs and cats in summer?
Summer is the favorite season for dermatitis in dogs and cats , as it is certainly the favorite season for fungi and parasites, because hot and humid environments are their favorite places.
But other than that, the sun and heat make even our skin, humans, more prone to itching, redness, chafing, allergies, etc.
Therefore, the tips that we will give here should be followed especially at this time when this disease appears more frequently, but which should become habits and care throughout the year.
Routine pet exams are also a great option to prevent possible illnesses.
Use hypoallergenic products
When buying any cosmetic for your pet, give preference to those made especially for allergic dogs and cats with sensitive skin, the hypoallergenic ones.
In addition, also choose those with fewer ingredients in the composition, as this means that they are less aggressive and more natural.
And of course, under no circumstances use products for humans on kittens, not even those for babies and children. Both are cute and sensitive, but they each have their needs!
Hygiene always up to date
from the pet
In this case, we mean both the hygiene of the pet and the environment in which it circulates. Thus, there is little chance of fungi, bacteria and other parasites taking over their fur.
Therefore, give regular baths and always observe the coat to identify possible unwanted pets.
Speaking of bathing, it is also important not to forget to clean the animals’ folds and corners well, as this is where the “tenants” usually take shelter, especially in hot climates.
After that, drying each part of the body very well is another practice that cannot be missed to avoid fungus.
from the environment
Keeping the environment always clean is another essential practice to prevent dermatitis in dogs and cats .
We know how messy they are, exploring, smelling, licking, but these shouldn’t be excuses for not always leaving them in clean places and away from bacteria and parasites.
Another important point is that if your little friend has this skin condition, do not use very strong cleaning products, because they can have the same effect as shampoos and soaps that trigger itching and other symptoms.
But don’t worry, passing a broom and keeping the house always well ventilated is enough, so you can leave the heavy cleaning for specific days and everything will be fine!
If he’s left alone during the summer, don’t forget to leave the windows open for fresh air, but if you have cats, those windows should be screened.
Dermatitis in dogs and cats is indeed a concern, and if reading this article you noticed that your best friend could suffer from it, don’t hesitate to look for a professional.