Do you have an Itchy Pet? Is your pet constantly scratching, licking, or shaking their head? It might be more than just a quirky habit—your dog or cat could be struggling with allergies, skin infections, or ear problems. These issues are among the most common reasons pet owners bring their animals to see us, and they can be incredibly uncomfortable for pets if left untreated.
Common Causes of Allergies in Pets
Just like people, pets can be allergic to many things. The three most common types of allergies in pets are:
- Environmental Allergies (Atopy): Pollen, mold, dust mites, and grasses can all trigger itchy skin and inflammation in your pet.
- Food Allergies: Proteins such as beef, chicken, dairy, or grains may lead to skin and gastrointestinal problems.
- Flea Allergy Dermatitis: Even a single flea bite can cause a major reaction in sensitive pets.
Allergies can cause a range of symptoms, including red, inflamed skin, excessive licking or chewing, hair loss, and recurring ear infections.
Skin Issues: More Than Skin Deep
- Hot Spots: These red, oozing sores develop quickly and are extremely painful.
- Dermatitis: Inflammation of the skin caused by allergies, irritants, or infections.
- Yeast or Bacterial Infections: These often develop when a pet scratches or licks an itchy area too much, disrupting the skin’s natural barrier.
Skin conditions often go hand-in-hand with allergies. Common skin problems include:
Signs to watch for include:
- Scabs
- bald spots
- strong odors
- thickened skin
- Red, irritated, or flaky skin
- Persistent scratching or chewing
- Ear odor, discharge, or head shaking
- Hair thinning or bald patches
- Recurring hot spots or skin infections
- Scooting or licking paws excessively
The Link Between Allergies and Ear Infections
Ear problems are often a symptom of underlying allergies. Moist, warm ear canals are the perfect environment for yeast and bacteria to thrive, especially if your pet has floppy ears or spends a lot of time swimming.
Symptoms of ear infections include:
- Head shaking or tilting
- Scratching at the ears
- Redness or discharge in the ear canal
- Foul odor
Chronic ear infections can lead to hearing loss or more severe health problems, so early treatment is important.
How We Diagnose and Treat Skin and Ear Issues
At your pet’s exam, we may recommend:
- Skin scrapings, cytology, or cultures to identify infections
- Allergy testing or food trials to pinpoint the source of irritation
- Ear swabs and otoscopic exams to assess ear health
Treatment may include oral medications such Apoquel® or injectible Cytopoint®, medicated shampoos, antibiotics, antifungals, anti-itch medications, or long-term allergy management like immunotherapy.
Comfort Starts with the Right Care
It’s tough watching your pet be uncomfortable—but the good news is, most skin and ear issues can be managed with the right diagnosis and treatment plan. If you notice your pet scratching, losing fur, or acting differently, don’t wait. Getting to the root of the issue early can help your pet live a happier, healthier life.
Has your pet been itching more than usual? Contact us today to schedule a skin and ear health checkup. Relief may be just one visit away.