The integumentary system constitutes the largest organ of an animal’s body: the skin. This specific part is often ignored by countless owners, considering the optimal nature of their coat and fur. Nevertheless, this does not omit the reality that the integument can still be vulnerable to certain conditions. Because of this, every fur parent needs to acknowledge the type, potential cause, and telltale signs of skin diseases commonly experienced by at-home pets.
Prevalent Pet Skin Conditions
Allergic Dermatitis
Pets can likewise be susceptible to various allergens arising from several sources, including environmental irritants, foods, grooming products, and household items. When this occurs, their skin can get hypersensitive, triggering severe rashes, which can be itchy and unbearable. Consequently, this can lead to acute dermatitis when left unattended. In this case, immediately ask for assistance from a group of for a timely response.
Alopecia
Pet shedding typically develops as a part of their hair-growth cycle. It is deemed the natural process of replacing damaged fur with healthy ones. Accordingly, this takes place to prepare their bodies for seasonal changes. This can be beneficial not until it gets extreme and more frequently than usual, resulting in a disorder termed alopecia. Genetics, poor nutrition, and stress are among the common factors that can trigger this abnormality to emerge.
Fleas
Typically, pets enjoy resting on the ground whenever they are comfortable doing so. Due to this, unwanted species can invade their coat and skin; among the lineup is named fleas. These parasites can attack by biting their integument, causing excessive licking and scratching, eventually leading to blood loss and anemia. When this happens, never hesitate to look for reliable veterinary websites like www.atlanticcoastvet.com to schedule a consultation with a specialist.
Mange
Mange has been commonly linked with the parasitic insect called mites. The intrusion of these tiny creatures can manifest in two different forms. First is the demodectic type, which can invade the healthy skin of pets, inducing minor complications, such as bald spots, scabs, and sores. Meanwhile, the sarcoptic type is deemed more contagious. It can rapidly spread from one pet host to another, stimulating severe scratching and hair loss.
Ringworm
The name of this skin condition suggests that it develops due to worm invasion. Nevertheless, truth be told, ringworm emerges from a fungus. The term “ring” was only incorporated because of the circular patches this irregularity produces. When a pet suddenly reveals bald, scaly, and swelling spots, this can indicate a potential infection. In this case, immediately visit a veterinarian for a safe yet effective treatment plan.
Ticks
Similar to fleas and mange, ticks are likewise brought on by blood-sucking parasites that invade through their healthy integument. Subsequently, this can induce severe irritation, leading to fatal bacterial infections, such as Lyme disease. These tiny creatures can typically be seen by the naked eye. When you spot one, get a tweezer to pull it out. However, if you fail to do it cleanly, instantly visit the dermatology page of trusted online veterinary networks for first aid measures.
Skin Lesions
In rare pet cases, lesions can aggressively emerge when a particular skin infection fails to progress into the healing phase. This frequently develops because of an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s defense mechanism suddenly stops working. Suppose this unexpectedly takes place and is left without treatment. In that case, it can lead to various brain conditions that only the expertise of a cat and dog neurologist can handle and manage.
Yeast Infections
The ears and paws of a pet are the bodily structures where yeast infections usually attack. This condition can easily be detected, considering the persistent licking and scratching symptoms an infected furry companion can present. This skin problem can basically be treated with topical creams and medicated baths. However, this can lead to bone deterioration when left untreated, which only a comprehensive rehabilitation therapy can resolve.