Identifying and Treating Common Pet Skin Conditions at Duarte Azusa Animal Hospital

Common pet dermatology problems may cause cats or dogs to chew paws, rub rumps on the floor, whimper and bat nonstop at painful or itchy ears. This is upsetting to loving owners

Instead of watching and wincing, it's better to visit a veterinarian who can provide an overall checkup, diagnostic testing and treatment to determine and soothe the problem.

Expert Help in the San Gabriel Valley

Dr. Rahim Zabihi and other veterinary staff at Duarte Azusa Animal Hospital staff can help by listening closely to the information you provide and examining your pet thoroughly from nose to tail.

DuarteAzusa Animal Hospital makes life better for pets in communities including Azusa, Duarte, Arcadia, Bradbury, Covina, Glendora and Monrovia.

Infections and Allergies

Common pet dermatology problems include fungal and bacterial infections as well as food and environmental allergies.

Yeast infection is a fungal problem that often affects pet ears and paws, creating a red, raw look. Oral drugs, topical creams and medicated baths help control it.

Blister-like impetigo and the small but itchy dots of folliculitis rash on tummies are examples of bacterial invasions that may be controlled with topical medications. But folliculitis may require oral antibiotics.

Treatment of suspected food allergies involves removing foods from your pet's diet one substance at a time over a test period that may last for a few weeks. Common food allergens include wheat, beef and chicken. Fortunately, many affordable pet foods for special diets are available.

Environmental irritants sometimes may be removable from homes or controlled by small doses of antihistamines and soothing baths.

Other Dermatological Problems

Additional skin troubles may range from visible tumors requiring surgery and biopsy to tiny bumps of acne on a cat's chin that may require hand cleaning after meals and application of ointment.

Also, don't forget that flea and tick bites are more common in spring as you and your pets spend more time outdoors. Left untreated, parasites can spread and their bites may become infected.

For diagnosis and loving treatment of any pet problem, please contact Duarte Azusa Animal Hospital today.