Treating Skin Disorders and Allergies in Dogs and Cats in Indianapolis, IN
Skin disorders are a common problem for dogs and cats. They can be the result of an allergy, a fungal infection, fleas, or mites. If your companion is scratching and licking at themselves almost constantly, they could very well be suffering from one of these issues.
At Broad Ripple Animal Clinic, our doctors will work with you to relieve your pet’s discomfort. We first need to identify the cause of their itching and create a treatment plan that meets their specific needs. In addition to soothing your pet’s itch, we also want to help you manage their condition well into the future if it proves to be chronic.
Your pet deserves to have relief from their condition. Contact us at (317) 257-5334 or request an appointment online.
Signs Your Pet Might Have a Skin Disorder
Itching is the primary sign of a skin condition, but there are others, including:
- Signs of hair loss (bald spots)
- Red, swollen ears
- Strong, unpleasant skin/ear odor
- Red, inflamed skin
- Dry, scaly, scabby looking patches of skin
- Dull, greasy coat
- Dandruff
If you see any of these issues when looking at your pet, reach out to us as soon as possible! Skin disorders can escalate to become more uncomfortable and harder to treat.
What Types of Skin Disorders and Allergies can Pets Have?
Allergies and skin disorders are often, but not always, intertwined. We typically see dogs and cats for the following conditions:
- Atopic dermatitis
- Flea allergy dermatitis (allergic reaction to flea saliva)
- Food allergies
- Seasonal allergies
- Otitis externa (ear infections)
- Ringworm (fungal infection)
- Sarcoptic mange
- Demodectic mange
These conditions can be stubborn to treat, especially if your pet develops a secondary skin infection. This is why early detection and early treatment are so important!
Is My Pet’s Condition Curable?
Allergies in dogs and cats are similar to allergies in people—they cannot be fully cured, but they can be kept under control. Other conditions, such as mange and ringworm, can be cured, though treatment can take time (and lots of patience!). Regardless of what your pet’s condition turns out to be, our team will be here to help you at every step of their treatment.
Broad Ripple Animal Clinic offers a wide range of treatment options depending on your pet's condition. One option, for allergies, includes an allergen immunotherapy vaccine that is tailored to your pet. The vaccine can be given orally or via subcutaneous injection.
We will answer your questions and use every resource available to give your pet relief from their symptoms so they can enjoy life again. Call us at (317) 257-5334 for more information, or to make an appointment.