Skin disorders are among the most common health problems in pets and have many causes. The condition of a dog or cat’s skin and coat are also an important indicator of its general health. Skin disorders may vary from acute, self-limiting problems to chronic or long-lasting problems requiring life-time treatment. Skin disorders may be primary or secondary (due to scratching, itch) in nature, making diagnosis complicated.
Allergies
Ear conditions
ParasitesHere are some of the most common contions encountered in dogs and cats:
- Atopic dermatitis
- Hot Spots
- Acral lick granulomas
- Flea allergy dermatitis
- Mange
All of them would require a correct treatment regime, some of them might need to be addressed as long term conditions.
Some of the skin/coat changes are actually triggered by other conditions or abnormal changes in the body. Hypothyroidism in dogs, Hyperthyroidism in cats, Cushing’s Disease, etc. might be the primary cause, at an advanced stage would bring coat abnormalities.
Cutaneous/skin lump are never to be underlooked. As soon as you spotted such an abnormality it is best to be investigated. Conditions like Mast Cell Tumors for example need to be investigated from the early stages for a good outcome.
