Itchy Skin & Ear infection

Does your pet have an odd odor? Are they constantly scratching a specific area of their skin or their ears? If so, your pet may have a skin or ear infection.  If you are near the Huntington Beach area and your pet is showing these symptoms, then it may be time to contact one of our veterinarians at Friendly Animal Hospital. While there are several causes of these conditions, there are some that are more common than others. Keep reading to learn more about these conditions and when you should seek medical attention. 

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Common Pet Bacterial and Fungal Infections 

While there are many causes of itchy skin and ears, there are some conditions that are more common than others. Some of these conditions are listed below.

Malassezia Pachydermatitis

This condition is caused by fungus or yeast when it is on the skin or in mucosal surfaces like the ears of cats and dogs. Even though it is somewhat common for this fungus to be present, an overgrowth can cause cases of dermatitis, which is an inflammation of the skin. 

Candida 

Candida occurs when yeast is present on the mucosal areas and skin. It can occur in the ears, vulva, vagina, and between the animal’s toes or foot pads. This is a common infection for women but can occur in pets too. 

Ringworm (Dermatophytosis)

Ringworm can be seen with typical symptoms such as hair loss, itchiness, dandruff and its distinctive because of the nodular, rounded, raised lesions or lesions that start to ooze. 

Pyoderma 

This is a generic term and an overall umbrella phrase for several strains of bacteria, including Staphylococci. This bacterial infection usually results in various pus-filled lesions of different sizes. 

Short Term Treatment Options for These Conditions 

After your veterinarian has determined the infection type affecting your pet, they can prescribe the right medication, which may include one or several of the following: anti-inflammatories, shampoos, antibiotics, corticosteroids, and fungicides. 

While these are ideal for short-term treatment, they are not recommended for ongoing use. However, from time to time you may need to use them to help prevent the fungal or bacterial infection, so talk to your vet to know for sure. 

Curing the Underlying Issue 

It's best to take your pet to the animal hospital as soon as an issue is noticed. While treating the symptoms of the condition will relieve your pet from pain and discomfort, it’s also necessary to determine what the underlying issue is. This is the best way to ensure that the condition does not continue to reoccur. 

If you suspect a pet skin infection or an ear infection in your furry friend, then it’s time to contact your veterinarian in Huntington Beach. The Friendly Animal Hospital will provide your pet with the treatment it needs to promote a healthy and long life ahead.

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