
The integumentary system comprises the largest organ of an animal’s body: the skin. This particular part is frequently neglected by countless owners, considering the optimal nature of their coat and fur. Nevertheless, this does not exclude the fact that the integument can still be vulnerable to certain conditions. For this reason, every fur parent needs to acknowledge the type, potential cause, and telltale signs of skin diseases generally experienced by at-home pets.
Pet Conditions Handled by Veterinary Dermatologists
Allergic Dermatitis
Pets are similarly vulnerable to numerous allergens arising from different sources, including environmental irritants, foods, grooming products, and household items. When this occurs, their skin can get hypersensitive, causing severe rashes, which can be itchy and unbearable. Consequently, this can bring about acute dermatitis when left unattended. In this case, immediately head to the closest cat and dog dermatologist for a prompt response.
Alopecia
Pet shedding typically develops as a part of their hair-growth cycle. It is regarded as the natural process of replacing damaged fur with healthy ones. Accordingly, this transpires to prepare their bodies for seasonal changes. This can be beneficial not until it gets excessive and more often than usual, leading to a disorder termed alopecia. Genetics, poor nutrition, and stress are among the typical factors that can cause this abnormality to emerge.
Fleas
Generally, pets enjoy lying down on the ground whenever they are comfortable doing so. Due to this, unwanted species can invade their coat and skin; among the lineup are identified as fleas. These parasites can attack by biting their integument, triggering excessive licking and scratching, gradually leading to blood loss and anemia. When this happens, never be reluctant to search for reliable veterinary websites like www.atlanticcoastvet.com to schedule an appointment with a specialist.
Mange
Mange has been commonly linked with the parasitic insect called mites. The invasion of these tiny creatures can manifest in two different forms. First is the demodectic type, which can attack the healthy skin of pets, inducing minor problems, such as bald spots, scabs, and sores. Meanwhile, the sarcoptic type is deemed more contagious. It can quickly proliferate from one pet host to another, inducing severe scratching and hair loss.
Ringworm
The name of this skin condition suggests that it develops due to worm invasion. However, truth be told, ringworm surfaces from a fungus. The term “ring” was only integrated because of the circular patches this abnormality 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 plan.
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, leading to deadly bacterial infections, such as Lyme disease. These tiny creatures can generally be discovered by the naked eye. When you spot one, get a tweezer to pull it out. However, 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 wherein the body’s defense mechanism suddenly stops working. Suppose this unexpectedly comes about and is left unattended. In that case, it can lead to numerous brain conditions that only the expertise of a vet neurology specialist can handle and manage.
Yeast Infections
The ears and paws of a pet are the physical structures where yeast infections usually invade. This condition can be easily detected, considering the persistent licking and scratching manifestations an infected furry companion can present. This skin problem can generally be treated with topical creams and medicated baths. Nevertheless, this can lead to bone deterioration when left untreated, which only a comprehensive rehabilitation therapy can solve.