What is dermatitis?

Dermatitis is a general term for skin inflammation. It can have many different causes. Skin inflammation often results from normal skin organisms that are typically kept in check by a healthy immune system. Causes include allergies, irritants, skin trauma, bacterial or fungal infections, external parasites, general poor health or nutrition, hormonal imbalances, or immune system abnormalities.

What does it look like?

Common signs:

• Red and swollen skin
• Hair loss
• Pustules, crusts or sores, and scabbing
• Scratching, chewing or licking the skin

Mild dermatitis can rapidly become severe and cover large areas of the body.

How is the cause diagnosed?

• Clinical signs, like sores and scabbing
• Physical exam results
• Laboratory tests as necessary, including allergy or blood tests, skin scrape analysis, cytology, and skin biopsies

Additional testing can help to identify what’s causing the inflammation.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the infection, which may require additional medications. It often includes:

• Prescription antibiotics, medicated shampoos, and skin products
• Antihistamines and steroids
• Flea control, and other external parasite control

Routine bathing, coat care, and year-round parasite control are essential for good skin health.

How to help your pet:

• Administer all medications and skin products as prescribed by your veterinary team
• Monitor your pet carefully and schedule checkups as recommended
• Use year-round flea and tick prevention
• If your pet requires a special diet, do not allow them other food, treats, or table scraps
• Follow your veterinary team’s recommendations for bathing and grooming your pet
• Contact your veterinary team with any questions