Itchy skin is a common problem among cats and dogs. It can be distressing and frustrating for both pets and their owners and can lead to self-trauma, secondary infections and other complications. Identifying the underlying cause is important for effective treatment and management. Some common causes of itchy skin in cats and dogs include:
Allergies
An allergy is a state of hypersensitivity when exposure to a harmless substance (an allergen) causes the body’s immune system to overreact. It is common for allergies in pets to present as skin problems rather than respiratory problems as in people. Signs of an allergy can vary considerably but most often manifests as itching/scratching, chewing and/or licking excessively which can also sometimes coincide with recurring skin/ear infections and hair loss. Allergies are one of the primary causes of itchy skin in pets and can be triggered by various allergens. Year-round environmental allergies can be indistinguishable from food allergies, so it can take a lot of unravelling to determine the exact cause. It’s important to know that allergies cannot be cured, only managed, which often involves medication to relieve symptoms such as itch, inflammation and discomfort associated with the allergy or to treat secondary bacterial or fungal infections.
Allergic skin disease can be broken down into four categories: flea allergy, food allergy, environmental allergy, and contact allergy.
Parasites
The presence of external parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites can cause intense itching in cats and dogs. Persistence with the correct treatment and medication will often completely resolve the skin issues if parasites where the sole cause.
Secondary Skin Infections
Secondary bacterial or fungal infections can develop in conjunction with itchy skin. These infections often occur due to persistent scratching, licking and/or chewing, creating a desirable environment on the skins surface for bacteria and yeast to thrive. The infection occurs secondary to the underlying problem, such as an allergy, which caused the initial itching in the first place.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Poor diet or nutritional imbalances can affect the health of a pet’s skin and coat, making them more susceptible to itching. Essential fatty acid deficiencies, in particular, can contribute to dry, flaky skin and itching.
Underlying Disease
Itchy skin can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying disease. Some conditions, such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease, can disrupt the normal functioning of the skin and coat, resulting in itching and hair loss. Potential underlying disease will require thorough investigation, evaluation and treatment from a Veterinarian.
Management/Prevention
There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ reliable cure for itchy skin. The key is understanding the underlying cause of your pet’s condition to better manage its treatment which may include medications, dietary changes, parasite control, and/or management of underlying health conditions. By understanding the common causes of itchy skin in cats and dogs and taking proactive measures, you can help your pet enjoy a comfortable itch free life.