Skin diseases are all too common in cats and dogs, but they sometimes go unrecognized. After all, it can be hard to tell if something is wrong with your pet's skin underneath their coat. Most pet owners notice that their pet has a skin issue when their pet seems itchy or grooms themselves excessively. If you think your pet may have a skin problem, don't wait -- bring your cat or dog to Vet Med Animal Hospital in Lafayette as soon as you can. Our veterinary team can help prevent your pet's skin problem from turning into hot spots or a more severe infection. Here are a few of the most common skin diseases our veterinarian treats.
Atopic Dermatitis
"Atopic dermatitis" is another name for environment-based allergies. Just like people, cats and dogs can be allergic to a wide variety of things, from ragweed and pollen to the cleaning chemicals you use in your home. A veterinarian can help you find out what your pet is allergic to so you can remove the trigger from your pet's environment.
Mite and Flea Allergies
If your cat or dog can't stop scratching, consider whether mites or fleas could be the cause. These little parasites can cause a disproportionate amount of suffering for your pet. If mites or fleas are causing your pet's skin problems, you will need to treat your whole home (and any other pets you have) to get rid of them.
Food Allergies
Food allergies are on the rise in pets. If your cat or dog is allergic to something in their food, a skin rash might be the only noticeable symptom.
Ringworm
Ringworm is a type of fungal infection that causes a scaly rash and hair loss. It's essential to treat ringworm in pets right away because the infection can easily be spread between cats, dogs, and humans.
Hair Loss
Hair loss in pets isn't a disease in and of itself, but it's usually a symptom of another problem. Excessive scratching from dermatitis or flea allergies can cause hair loss, for instance. Internal problems like tumors and adrenal disease can also cause a pet to lose hair.
Dry Skin
If your pet's dry skin is not caused by allergies or parasites, their diet may be the problem. Dogs and cats that eat a low-quality diet are likely to have dry, flaky, itchy skin.
Vet Med Animal Hospital can help solve your pet's skin problems
If your pet has a problem with their skin, visit our Lafayette veterinarian at Vet Med Animal Hospital. Our veterinary experts can help your pet get some relief from scratching and biting. Call our clinic at 337-456-8010 to make an appointment today.