Is Your Pet’s Skin Drying Out This Season? 6 Common Causes of Fall Skin Problems
Along with the various seasonal changes in fall, there are many possible factors that can affect a pet’s skin and coat. A healthy pet should have a coat that looks naturally clean, shiny, and luxuriant. When their coat looks dry, dull, and thin, and their skin causes them to itch and scratch, it’s time to investigate the reasons why.
Signs of Trouble
Generally, any changes to a pet’s appearance and behavior are cause for concern. Something could be explained by something minor, but it’s equally possible there is something serious going on. When issues are handled quickly, treatment may be more effective, less costly, and more successful.
The Larger View
If you notice your pet itching, scratching, showing signs of discomfort, congestion, or exhibits red, swollen, or bleeding skin, please make an appointment right away.
We can treat skin problems and help to identify possible causes. Underlying skin issues can have wide-ranging and long-lasting ramifications to a pet’s overall health and wellness. With medications, nutritional supplements, topical treatments, and other strategies, we can soothe their skin, manage triggers, and promote comfort.
Common Causes of Skin Trouble
To prevent problems going from bad to worse, please let us know if you think you pet’s fall skin problems are related to the six following causes of seasonal skin issues:
- Allergies. While some environmental allergies peak in the spring and summer, various allergens like mold spores, ragweed, and smoke can worsen in spring. You might see itching, scratching, redness, and symptoms of secondary skin infections.
- Bacterial or Fungal Infections. When a pet scratches, licks, or botes their skin, the barrier weakens between the skin and the outside world. Any type of infection should be seen and treated without delay.
- Dryness. This seems obvious, but in really dry weather, a pet’s skin can dry out to such a degree that they become uncomfortable. It can be harder to treat dry skin the longer it is left untreated.
- Parasites. Fleas, ticks, mites, and other bugs can cause serious itching and flea allergy dermatitis (an allergy caused by the saliva in flea bites).
- Hot Spots. When a pet has itchy, dry skin, and they lick and bite at the same spot incessantly, the moisture can get trapped on the skin and cause an inflamed patch of skin.
- Hormones. Not directly caused by the seasonal shifts, but occurring concurrently with any of the above skin issues, hormonal imbalances can lead to and increase the severity of various skin problems. Cushing’s disease, hypothyroidism, and more can result in hair loss, and skin thinning.
Pet Dermatology Tips
We recommend the following pet skin tips to avoid some common problems:
- Regular brushing, bathing, and grooming
- A nutrient-rich diet rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins
- Adequate water supply
- Year-round parasite prevention
- Reduced allergens at home through vacuuming and laundry
- A stress-free lifestyle
- Routine wellness visits
Please let us know if you have questions or concerns. We’re always here for your pet at The Whole Pet Vet Hospital and Wellness Center.