Dermatology

Skin problems are very common in cats and dogs. There are many irritants in their surroundings ranging from plants, parasites and sometimes even foods that can cause flare-ups. As the skin is the largest organ and it’s external, it is usually very easy to spot any problems. Our team at Lauzon Veterinary Hospital is experienced in diagnosing and treating issues related to your pet’s skin, nails or fur.

What causes skin disorders?

Some of your pet’s skin problems are due to external irritants or health issues they are born with. You’d be surprised to know that your pet can have some of the same skin problems humans have. Your pet can develop skin disorders from:

1. Parasites – Fleas, mange mites and ringworms can irritate your pet’s skin.
2. Allergies – Your pet can have allergic reactions to foods or plants, making them break out in hives or cause itching.
3. Yeast infections – Signs are commonly seen near folds of the neck, ear, groin and armpits. Your pet’s skin will be greasy and cause them to have an odour.

What are signs that my pet has a skin problem?

By regularly examining your pet’s fur, paws, and ears, you can spot changes that may be related to their skin. Some signs that you should be on the lookout for are:

• Inflamed or itchy skin
• Hair loss
• Scabs/rashes
• Gnawing at their skin
• Dull hair
• Body odour
• Sores
• Scooting

How are skin issues treated in pets?

During your pet’s visit, the veterinarian’s first task is to determine what skin issue your pet has and what is causing it. We will perform tests to check for infections, parasites or allergies. In some cases, a skin scraping or a biopsy may be needed to diagnose them properly. Once the root cause has been identified, we may recommend a new diet, anti-itch allergy medication, oral or topical antifungal treatments, supplements or medicated shampoos.