Symptoms of Pet Allergies & Pet Skin Disorders
Skin disorders and pet allergies are some of the hardest disorders for pet parents to treat. At the Clinton Hill Animal Clinic, our team of professional veterinarians have experience treating complex dermatology issues. We can work with you and your pet to provide allergy testing, advice about food sensitivities, and flea/tick prevention and treatment. We can also address skin disorders that require antibacterial or antifungal treatment. The first step in treating pet skin disorders is diagnosing the problem. Here are some common symptoms of allergies and skin disorders in pets.
If your dog or cat occasionally itches and scratches, it’s probably no big deal, but pet allergies and other skin disorders can wreak havoc on your pet’s skin and coat. If notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to call your veterinarian in Clinton Hill:
- Constant itching
- Irritated, red, or discolored skin
- Sores, bumps, or scabs on the skin
- Excessive shedding, dandruff, or dull and thinning fur
- Circular lesions on the skin, especially if they are inflamed
- Excessive Licking
- Changes in the color or texture of your pet’s skin or fur
- Hot spots - red, irritated, and inflamed spots on the skin that are hot to the touch
Treating Skin Disorders
Because skin disorders can be caused so many different culprits, your veterinarian in Clinton Hill will usually take a multi-faceted approach to diagnose and treat the problem. A flea infestation will probably be ruled out first because they are easy to treat and prevent with medications. Next, your vet will check to see if your pet is suffering from a simple case of dry skin. Bacterial and fungal infections will also be ruled out or treated.
If none of these triggers are causing your pet’s skin disorders, your veterinarian will test for allergic reactions using a simple blood test. If your vet suspects a food allergy or sensitivity, an elimination diet might be recommended to pinpoint the culprit. Once the allergen has been determined, a treatment plan can be developed using a variety of methods and possibly medication.
Contact Our Veterinarian in Brooklyn!
Our veterinarian in Brooklyn is committed to providing your pet with the care they need for a long, healthy, and happy life. We proudly serve Bedford-Stuyvesant, Williamsburg, Fort Greene, Prospect-Lefferts Gardens, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Heights, Vinegar Hill, Prospect Heights, Bushwick, & Park Slope.
Contact us at 718-623-3999 to set up an appointment. We look forward to meeting with you!