One of the most common skin issues cats and dogs can face is allergies. Like humans, pets have allergies triggered by factors in their environment. However, unlike humans, most pets don’t suffer from respiratory problems when their allergies flare up. Instead, they get rashes and inflamed skin which can cause severe itching. This condition is known as allergic dermatitis.

Allergic itching is most often caused by fleas, but it can also be triggered by other factors including:

• Food ingredients
• Dust
• Mold
• Household chemicals

If left untreated, pets may scratch excessively, causing other problems including loss of fur and lacerations, which can become infected. If you notice your pet incessantly scratching or sneezing, bring them in for a dermatology exam. They may need treatment for allergies. Allergies have no permanent cure. However, there are many ways of controlling symptoms to make life easier for your pet and you.

Many pets suffering from skin allergies also have skin infections by the time they are being treated. These infections are caused by fungus or bacteria in open cuts, though they can usually be treated with antibiotics. Other common infections treated through pet dermatology include ear infections, or otitis, often caused by mites. So, pets constantly pawing or scratching at their ears could usually benefit from a dermatological exam. Other signs your pet may have a fungal or bacterial infection include dandruff, loss of fur, and red, oozing, or scaled skin. Call us immediately at (858) 748-3326 if you notice any of these symptoms! Some skin infections, like mange and ringworm, are not only painful for your pet, they’re contagious to humans too.