There are many causes of skin and ear problems in pets. At Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital in Surrey, B.C., we have been diagnosing and treating pet skin and ear issues for many years. Read on to learn more about common skin and ear issues and how we treat them.
Ringworm
Despite the name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but by a fungal infection. It causes hair loss in round patches. The edges of the bald patches are often red and scabby. Pets groom with their claws, which can lead to these wounds becoming infected. Ringworm can be treated with antifungal ointments or creams. Pills may also be prescribed. Ringworm is highly contagious, so always wash your hands after handling your pet. Be sure to wash your pet’s bedding too.
Allergies
When pets are allergic to something, they can develop itchy skin or ear infections. Skin treatments include corticosteroids and antibiotics to help reduce inflammation. Medicated baths can also soothe itchy skin. The main problem for our veterinarian is identifying what is causing your pet’s allergies. After allergens have been identified, our veterinarian will help you eliminate these allergens from your pet’s life. The most common things pets are allergic to include flea bites, pollen, and specific foods.
Mange
Many parasites cause scratching, but mange is particularly insidious because it is so intensely itchy. Pets with mange will scratch themselves bald and rip their itchy skin open. Mange often appears on and in the ears, causing extensive crusting. Fortunately, a trip to the veterinarian can kill the mites that cause mange with injections or oral medication. One type of mange, sarcoptic mange, is contagious to other species. If possible, isolate the pet from other pets. Be sure to wash your hands after handling your pet.
Ear Infections
Pets with ear infections are hard to miss. They scratch their ears constantly, rub their heads against the floor, shake their heads often, and may have a foul smell or dark wax coming from the ears. There are many causes of ear infections, so a trip to the vet is necessary to provide your pet with the correct treatment measures. Common causes of ear infections include mites, mange, bacterial or yeast infections, tiny objects like grass seeds in the ear, and hormone imbalances. Medication includes ear drops, medicated ear cleaners, or pills.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Veterinarian in Surrey for Skin and Ear Treatments
Call Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital today at (604) 536-3131 for more information on skin treatments and ear treatments or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian.
