Dermatology
Does your pet scratch, bite, or lick their coat and skin excessively? Are they displaying signs of hair loss and skin abrasions? All dogs and cats occasionally itch, which is perfectly normal. However, when the scratching continues for several days, or the skin and coat begin to suffer, it may indicate they are suffering from a dermatologic condition. The experienced veterinarians at Belle Chasse Veterinary Clinic can help determine the cause of your pet’s skin irritation.
What are the primary causes of itching in pets?
If your pet is continually biting, licking, or scratching, they may be suffering from an allergic reaction to something in their environment. Reactions are typically triggered by food allergies, fleas, and substances in their location such as dust, pollen, and grass. Other causes of itching may be caused by an infestation of tiny mites such as sarcoptic mange (scabies), or demodectic mange (demodex).
What can be done for my pet suffering from allergies or mites?
Veterinary dermatology solutions have significantly improved in recent years, and the compassionate veterinarians at Belle Chasse Veterinary Clinic are pleased to offer these cutting advancements to their patients. Our doctors always recommend allergy testing for patients under their care, in order to understand what may be causing the allergic reaction. Food trials are also conducted by completely removing the pet’s current diet, and replacing it with another that has different ingredients.
Sublingual immunotherapy is the practice of placing a tiny amount of the substance causing the allergic reaction under the tongue of the animal. Over time, the amount of allergen is increased until the body has developed a tolerance to the substance. Sublingual immunotherapy uses the pet’s natural immune system to alleviate the reaction, as opposed to long-term medication.
Allergy medications offered at Belle Chasse Veterinary Clinic include a daily oral tablet, which can block the sensation of the itch at the skin level from reaching the brain. Monoclonal antibody injections intercept proteins that can cause itchy skin are also available at our practice. Both of these products are extremely safe for long-term use.
Pets suffering from mites causing sarcoptic mange or demodex can also be successfully treated at Belle Chasse Veterinary Clinic. Prescription oral medications that are available at our practice can eliminate the mites causing the itch, as well as protect your pet against fleas and ticks.
Medicated shampoos and topical solutions that can alleviate the discomfort associated with allergic itch and mites are yet other treatments that we offer. Our doctors will work with you to determine the best dermatology solution for the lifestyle of your pet.
If your pet is continually scratching, licking, or biting their coat and skin, have them evaluated by one of our caring doctors. Please schedule an appointment with one of our team members, and get relief for your pet’s skin, regardless of the cause.