Dermatitis Could Be Causing Your Pet's Skin Problems

If you are a pet parent and you’re looking for answers to your pet's skin problems, our veterinary experts at Avalon Animal Clinic in Indianapolis are here to help. As pet owners, we always make sure we treat our pets for fleas, ticks and other pests that irritate the skin. But, dermatitis and allergens just might be what is causing your furry friend’s discomfort. Dermatitis is a condition that causes red, swollen and blistered skin. Pets will continually itch and lick the skin to make it feel better but actually doing so will worsen the problem. Many things can cause dermatitis including both internal and external allergens.

Environmental Dermatitis: If a pet has sensitive skin, environmental allergens like grass, dirt, plants, and insects can cause dermatitis. You might even notice that your pet is uncomfortable during specific months of the year. If this is the case your pet might have seasonal allergies. Environmental dermatitis is one of the easiest skin conditions to treat. Our veterinarians will prescribe steroids that provide temporary relief. It is important to find what your pet is allergic to, so tests are encouraged to identify the specific allergies.

Nutritional Dermatitis: Just like humans, pets need nutrition for optimal health and wellness. Over the counter dog food and treats might contain empty calories, unhealthy ingredients and not enough meats, vitamins, minerals, and Omega 3 fatty acids for healthy skin. Consult our veterinarian for the best diet and nutritional supplements for your pet. Removing foods that aren't healthy and adding ones that are may prevent nutritional dermatitis and result in healthier skin.

Lick Dermatitis: It is a pet's instinct to groom themselves by licking his or her fur, which is normal behavior. If your pet is anxious, afraid, bored, has a gastrointestinal disturbance or is allergic to something, continual licking and biting in the same spot can result in unhealthy Lick Dermatitis. This is also called Acral Lick Granuloma. This obsessive licking causes itchy sore exposed areas that scab and get infected, and are unable to heal. These hairless lesions are called hot spots and are usually found on the front legs, but can be anywhere on the pet's body. A veterinary professional should be consulted, to evaluate and successfully treat your pet's lick dermatitis. Our vet will get to the root of the problem, decide if it is a medical or behavioral issue and prescribe either topical or oral medication to heal the affected areas.

Helping Pet Skin Allergies in Indianapolis

Dermatitis is just one of the many reasons your pet may be experiencing skin discomfort. Our friendly, experienced team are here to keep your pet happy and healthy. Contact Avalon Animal Clinic in Indianapolis today at (317) 842-4618 to schedule an appointment.