In order to treat your pet’s itchy skin, your vet will need to determine the cause of the itch first. Identifying the cause can take time.
While tests are carried out, there are a number of itch relieving medications your vet can prescribe to keep your pet comfortable in the meantime.
The first thing your vet will need to rule out is infectious causes which include:
- Ectoparasites such as fleas and mites
- Bacterial infections
- Fungal infections
In order to check for these infectious causes your vet may carry out tests such as skin scrapes, hair plucks and swabs.
Treatments for infectious causes include parasiticides, antibiotics and antifungals. Often medicated shampoos, creams and sprays are recommended.
If the itching has not resolved at this stage some more investigations will determine other possible causes such as flea allergy dermatitis or a food allergy.
While fleas can cause itchy skin in all cats and dogs (and humans!), some pets are particularly sensitive to the flea’s saliva. This is called flea allergic dermatitis and pets affected might need additional treatments to control the condition.
Food allergies or intolerances can be tested for by carrying out a dietary exclusion trial. This involves feeding your pet an alternative diet for a period of 6-8 weeks. The choice of food is very important and your vet will advise you on the most appropriate diet to use.
If the itch remains once the possibility of flea allergic dermatitis or a food allergy has been excluded, your vet may diagnose atopic dermatitis. This is caused by environmental allergens such as pollen and house dust. Atopic dermatitis is a life-long condition and requires life-long treatment. In order to manage this condition, a combination of treatments are usually required. Your vet will develop a treatment plan specific to your pet.