Common Skin Issues in Cats & Dogs
Pets can suffer from a variety of skin conditions, each with different causes. Some of the most common dermatological problems we see include:
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Allergies
Pets can be allergic to environmental factors (pollen, dust mites, mold), certain foods and protein sources, or flea bites. Allergies often cause itchy skin, rashes, hair loss, and chronic ear infections.
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Hot Spots
These painful, moist, and rapidly spreading skin lesions are often caused by excessive licking or chewing due to an underlying irritation. Hot spots are common in pets who suffer from allergies or excessive skin folds.
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Fungal & Bacterial Infections
Skin infections, including ringworm (a contagious fungal infection) and bacterial infections like pyoderma, can result in scaly patches, sores, and inflammation.
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Parasitic Infestations
Fleas, ticks, and mites (such as those that cause mange) can lead to severe itching, redness, and discomfort. Certain types of mange, such as sarcoptic mange, can also be contagious to pets and people.
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Hormonal Imbalances
Endocrine conditions like hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, and diabetes can affect skin health, leading to hair loss, dry skin, fragile skin, or recurring infections.
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Autoimmune Skin Disorders
Some pets develop immune-mediated skin diseases that cause sores, crusting, or ulcers. These conditions require lifelong specialized care to keep your pet comfortable.


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Diagnosis & Treatment Options for Pets with Skin Problems
Finding the root cause of your pet’s skin issue is the first step to effective treatment. At Countryside Animal Clinic, we offer:
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Comprehensive Skin Examinations
We assess your pet’s skin and coat for visible signs of irritation, infections, or parasites to identify problematic areas.
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Allergy Testing
Blood tests and skin testing can help identify environmental and food allergens that may be triggering your pet’s symptoms.
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Skin Scraping & Cytology
These diagnostic tests help us detect mites, bacteria, yeast, and other infections under a microscope.
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Customized Treatment Plans
Based on the diagnosis, treatment may include medicated shampoos, topical creams, oral medications (such as antihistamines, steroids, or Apoquel), anti-itch injections (Cytopoint), dietary changes, or allergy immunotherapy.
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Parasite Prevention
Year-round flea and tick prevention can help protect pets from common skin parasites that cause discomfort and infections.
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Advanced Dermatological Therapies
For chronic or severe cases, we may recommend additional treatments such as immune-modulating medications or long-term management plans.
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Phovia Light Therapy
This non-invasive treatment uses fluorescent light energy and a special gel to promote faster healing of skin conditions, wounds, and surgical incisions.