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Skin and ear problems are two of the most common diseases that we treat at our hospitals. Some causes of these diseases include various types of skin infections (pyoderma) or ear infections (otitis), allergies (either to fleas, environmental antigens or dietary ingredients), microscopic mites that live in the skin, ringworm, endocrine disease and diseases of the immune system.
It is always our goal to make your pet feel more comfortable, but whenever possible, we also aim to treat the underlying cause of his or her problem. To best accomplish this, our veterinarians may sometimes recommend a quick and simple test (such as a skin or ear cytology) in order to gain more information and to help guide the choice of medication or treatment. Occasionally, when a more chronic disease process is suspected (such as thyroid disease, adrenal gland disease, or immune system problems), additional tests may be recommended. We will always go over any recommendations with you during the office exam.
Here are some general recommendations about skin and ear health:
1. Practice diligent flea control on all pets in the household. Please know that not all flea products are created equal. Some products are safer for certain patients than others are, and some simply work much better than others. Always consult your veterinarian about which product is best for each particular pet, and for instructions on safe and effective use.
2. Many pets with skin problems benefit from regular bathing. Always use a shampoo formulated for pets that has been approved by your veterinarian.
3. Feed a high-quality diet that is intended for pets only. Or, if cooking for your pet, be sure the daily offering is balanced (in carbohydrate, fat, protein, minerals and vitamins) by consulting with a veterinary nutritionist.
4. If you are concerned that your pet may have a food allergy, please do not frequently change his or her food. Doing this will make finding a true food allergy (under a veterinarian's / dermatologist's food trial plan) much more difficult. Food allergies can be quite complicated, and although we see plenty of food allergic pets, skin problems caused by food are not as common as most people are guided to believe.
5. Administer topical products and oral medications to your pet only under the guidance of your veterinarian.
6. Changes such as red, itchy, smelly, or "difficult to keep clean" ears are often signs that a problem is developing. (Similarly, when red, flaky or itchy skin on the body is seen.) It is always better to intervene at an earlier stage of problem... before it becomes a larger one.
7. Never stick a cotton-tipped swab down your pet's ear canal, and do not wash your pet's ears with any solution that has not been approved by your veterinarian.
8. Take your pet to your family vet once yearly for a complete physical examination, as many problems can be recognized and remedied before they start affecting the overall quality of life.
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