A Veterinary Discussion: Common Skin Problems Experienced by Pets
The integumentary system constitutes the largest organ of an animal’s body: the skin. This particular part is often ignored by numerous owners, considering the perfect nature of their coat and fur. Nevertheless, this does not exclude the reality that the integument can still be vulnerable to certain conditions. Because of this, every fur parent needs to acknowledge the type, potential cause, and telltale signs of skin diseases generally experienced by at-home pets.
Prevalent Dermatological Conditions Among Pets
Allergic Dermatitis
Pets can likewise be susceptible to numerous allergens arising from different sources, including environmental irritants, foods, grooming products, and household items. When this happens, their skin can get hypersensitive, triggering severe rashes, which can be itchy and painful. Consequently, this can lead to acute dermatitis when left unattended. In this case, immediately head to the closest veterinary dermatologist for a prompt response.
Alopecia
Pet shedding generally develops as a part of their hair-growth cycle. It is deemed the natural process of replacing damaged fur with healthy ones. Accordingly, this takes place to prepare their bodies for seasonal changes. This can be beneficial not until it gets extreme and more frequently than usual, resulting in a disorder termed alopecia. Genetics, poor nutrition, and stress are among the typical variables that can cause this irregularity to emerge.
Fleas
Generally, pets are fond of lying down on the ground whenever they are comfortable doing so. Because of this, unwelcome species can invade their coat and skin; among the lineup are identified as fleas. These parasites can attack by biting their integument, causing excessive licking and scratching, gradually leading to blood loss and anemia. When this occurs, never hesitate to search for reliable veterinary websites to schedule a consultation with a group of Atlantic Coast New York Veterinary Specialists.
Mange
Mange has been regularly linked with the parasitic insect termed mites. The intrusion of these tiny creatures can emerge in two different forms. First is the demodectic type, which can invade the healthy skin of pets, causing minor complications, such as bald spots, scabs, and sores. Meanwhile, the sarcoptic type is considered more contagious. It can quickly proliferate from one pet host to another, stimulating severe scratching and hair loss.
Ringworm
The name of this skin problem suggests that it develops due to worm invasion. Nevertheless, truth be told, ringworm emerges from a fungus. The term “ring” was merely integrated because of the circular patches this irregularity brings about. When a pet suddenly reveals bald, scaly, and swelling spots, this can indicate a possible infection. In this case, immediately visit a veterinarian for a safe yet effective treatment program.
Ticks
Comparable to fleas and mange, ticks are likewise brought on by blood-sucking parasites that invade through their healthy integument. Consequently, this can induce severe irritation, triggering fatal bacterial infections, such as Lyme disease. These tiny creatures can typically be seen by the naked eye. When you spot one, get a tweezer to pull it out. But if you fail to do it cleanly, immediately visit the dermatology page of trusted online veterinary networks for first aid measures.
Skin Lesions
In rare pet cases, lesions can aggressively arise when a particular skin infection struggles to progress into the healing phase. This often cultivates because of an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s defense mechanism suddenly stops functioning. Suppose this unexpectedly comes about and is left untreated. In that case, it can lead to numerous brain conditions that only the expertise of a veterinary neurologist can handle and manage.
Yeast Infections
The ears and paws of a pet are the bodily structures where yeast infections commonly attack. This condition can easily be detected, considering the persistent licking and scratching manifestations an infected furry companion can present. This skin problem can basically be treated with topical creams and medicated baths. Nevertheless, this can result in bone deterioration when left unattended, which only a series of pet rehabilitation services can solve.