Get Rid of Pet Skin Infections Once And For All

Dec 17, 2020 | Personal Insurance

Having skin infections is a standard stage for some pets since skin infections can be triggered by genetic diseases, climate, and allergies, which are inevitable. 

The best way to get rid of the infection is possible if done right. In this article, I will discuss the different skin conditions of dogs and cats, what causes them, how to treat them, and the best way to prevent them from happening. 


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What Is The Role Of The Skin? 

The skin is a large organ, whether for humans or most animals, like dogs and cats. There are many functions like immune protection, thermoregulation, and sensory perception. Vitamin D production starts in your skin, and, most of all, it is the main barrier used as a shield against environmental hazards. And because of that, dermatologic problems are one of the most commonly seen infections by a vet. 

There are more than 100 skin infections that can affect doggies and kitties. These infections can bring discomfort and lead to severe health conditions for pets if neglected. 

Signs That a Dog or Cat Has Skin Condition 

  • They keep on shaking their head 
  • Continuous scratching of their skin/fur due to itching 
  • Red, watery eyes 
  • Swollen parts of the skin and sores 
  • Excessive chewing and licking 
  • Their coat becomes dull and greasy, or they begin to start having hair loss 
  • Sneezing 
  • Their skin becomes flaky, irritated, and scabbed 
  • You will notice some changes in behavior, like they don’t want to pet, hide, and show discomfort. 

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Common Causes Of Dog and Cat Skin Infections 

There are many reasons why puppies and kitties develop skin infections. But the common factors that contribute to skin infections are: 

  • Genetic – Dogs and cats can be born with skin conditions. Some have sensitive skin and diseases like cancers and adrenal disorders, called “Cushing. ” 
  • Climate –Climate is also an essential factor affecting the skin conditions of cats and dogs. The cold can trap the sweat and dirt in the skin, leading to bacterial infection. On the other hand, a hot climate can make the skin secretes too much sweat, which can also cause bacteria. Both too much hot and cold can trigger the skin to get itchy, dry, flaky, and irritable. 
  • Allergies – Yes, pets can get allergies too. Like humans, allergens from our surroundings can trigger pets’ allergies. These allergens are pollen, dust, dander, molds, chemicals, and foods. 
  • Infections can be caused by bacteria, fungi, parasites, and even viruses that pets can get from almost everything in their surroundings. 

But did you know that your pets’ skin infections can be passed on to humans too? 

Yes, this is, unfortunately, true. Your doggies and kitties with whom you share your home can pass their skin infection to you and your family. Pets carry bacteria like parasites, fungi, viruses, and diseases. The type of disease called “zoonotic disease “is a disease that an animal can pass on to humans. Zoonotic diseases have wide varieties that can harm humans if infected. These can be transferred to humans when they are bitten, scratched, and even when they have contact with dogs’ and cats’ saliva, waste, and dander. 


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Now, the most crucial question is: How to get rid of the dog or cat’s skin infection once and for all? 

Skin disease is prevalent in dogs and kitties because they are playful and love to go outside or mingle with other animals. But like any other disease, infection, and illness, prevention is always better than cure. A clean pet and surroundings are a must to prevent your pet, as well as you and your family, from having unwanted skin infections. So don’t fret because meds can cure most of the skin infections of dogs and cats. Many medicines are used to stop skin infections, such as antibiotics, antifungal medications, antihistamines, medicated shampoos, and anti-inflammatory medication. That is why being prepared and having taken all the necessary precautions are necessary to get that skin-infection-free pet you are aiming for. 


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Things to do to prevent skin infections 

  • Bathe and brush your pet. Pets need good hygiene too. Bathing your cat regularly removes heat and cools its skin.
  • Properly nourish your pets. We should also watch what our dogs consume and how they look. To stay healthy, they need nutritious food.
  • Watch for parasites. If you find your pet scratching or has swollen skin, take them to the clinic. Always avoid pet parasites and insects.
  • Ask your pet’s doctor for prescription steroids and antihistamines if needed.
  • Ask your vet about pet allergy injections. Immunotherapy may lower your pet’s allergy sensitivity. 
  • Ask your vet about cat and dog-medicated shampoos. Tempting as a new pet shampoo may seem, wait. Always consult a professional first. Before attempting any shampoo, they may evaluate your pet’s skin.
  • You now know how to prevent pet skin diseases. Learn about common skin illnesses in dogs and cats and their causes.

Now that you know the preventions to avoid skin infections in your pet. What you need to learn now is the common skin diseases dogs and cats can have and what causes them. 


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Most Common Skin Infections for Dogs and Cats 

  • Hot Spots – Are also known as pyotraumatic dermatitis in dogs and cats. This usually involves the development of localized inflammation of the skin that is often quite painful for pets. 
  • Atopic Dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition in dogs and cats resulting from inhalant/contact allergies like pollen, dust, molds, grasses, trees, and ragweed. Pets with atopic dermatitis will show signs like itching and lick at themselves often. 
  • Dry Skin – Dry skin can affect many factors– from nutritional imbalances, surroundings, allergens, and deficiencies to different allergies and skin disorders like atopy, food allergies, flea bite allergies, and pollen and dust allergies. 
  • Hair Loss – Is also caused by many reasons, including dietary factors and imbalances, food allergies, inhalant/contact allergies, and flea bite allergies. 

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Dogs 

  • Leptospirosis – It is a bacterial infection caused by a bacterium known as spirochetes. This bacteria can affect both humans and animals. Domesticated canines usually get this from having contact with urine from other infected animals, contaminated water, mating with infected pets, and even from bites. 
  • Actinomycosis – is a skin infection caused by Actinomyces. This bacteria can be found in soil. It enters through the skin from wounds or cuts. 
  • Staph Infection is the most common type of bacteria that can infect dogs. It can infect even the dog’s respiratory tract, not just the skin. 
  • Bacterial Ear Infection – Bacterial infection can occur when there is inflammation. This happens when there is excessive moisture within the ear canal, during allergies, and co-infection with another disease like yeast species called Malassezia. 

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Cats 

  • Allergies to food that cats ingest or substances the cat come in contact with 
  • Allergies to inhaled compounds like pollen and dust 
  • Bacterial infection of hair follicles (folliculitis) 
  • Adverse drug reactions 
  • Allergies to flea bites 
  • Ear mites or ear infection 
  • Flea infestation 
  • Acne due to unhealthy skin 
  • Abscesses 

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Does Pet Insurance Cover Vet Visits? 

For starters, your puppy just had its first check-up at the vet — and now you have to figure out what pet insurance is and how much it costs. Nothing is worse than a sick puppy, but pet insurance can help make it easier on you and your furry friend. 

Yes, pet insurance plans may have coverage from some insurers. This will help cover the costs of routine vet visits. However, not all insurance companies offer wellness plans; it is essential to talk to professional agents about it.

Advantage Insurance Solutions in Denver, CO, can help. We’re only a call or text away at (720) 221-8768.

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