We’ve all seen it – a dog or cat that just can’t stop scratching. While an occasional scratch is normal, if your pet is constantly itching it could be a sign of an underlying problem.
In this article, we’ll explore the common reasons why pets scratch and how you can help them find relief.
Around 20% of pets seen by vets have skin disorders. The most common cause is parasites, such as ticks, fleas, and mites. Just because you can’t see fleas doesn’t mean they aren’t there!
Other causes of itching include allergies, dermatitis, and infections.
Fleas and Ticks – The most common cause
Tick and flea infestations are the leading cause of itching in pets and can cause intense itching and discomfort.
These tiny pests are ectoparasites, which means they live on the surface of their host (your pet). To survive, they must feed on your pet’s blood, causing irritation and even allergic reactions in some cases.
If left untreated, tick and flea bites can lead to more sinister conditions, such as Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) – a common allergic reaction to flea saliva that causes excessive scratching – skin infections, and hair loss, or even Tick Bite Fever which requires immediate veterinary attention.
How to protect your pet from Ticks & Fleas
Thanks to a wide range of advanced and easy-to-use tick and flea preventatives, keeping your pet protected year-round is now simpler than ever.
These solutions provide effective defense against diseases, FAD and discomfort, regardless of the season.
Options like spot-on treatments, oral chews, and collars from trusted brands such as Bravecto, Nexgard, Simparica, Frontline & Revolution to name a few, make it easy and convenient to maintain your pet’s health and comfort.
Treatment frequency varies by product, with some needing monthly applications and others every three months.
Also, pets in high-risk areas, such as warm climates or rural and coastal locations, are more prone to infestations, so regular checks after outdoor activities are essential.
With so many options available, check out our tick and flea guide for dogs and cats for detailed information on the different brands and treatments available to find the best solution for your pet, as well as treating infestations in the home.
Atopy: Environmental Triggers
As in humans, some dogs and cats can be allergic to environmental substances and symptoms are often worse around Spring and Autumn.
Atopy, pronounced ATE-UH-PEE – is an increased immune response to common environmental substances, known as allergens. Some examples of these triggers are pollen, mould, dust mites, grass and trees.
These allergens come into contact with your pet’s skin and slip through a weakened barrier. This triggers their immune system to overreact, leading to inflammation. This inflammatory response is uncomfortable and causes your pet to itch, scratch, lick and/or chew at their paws.
FACT: Some breeds are more likely to develop atopy than others. Examples include Dalmatians, Golden Retrievers, Shar Peis, Labradors, Shih Tzus, Boxers, and Pugs.
Diagnosing atopy is based on a clinical evaluation, meaning it relies on observing symptoms, medical history and ruling out other possible causes with similar clinical signs rather than specific tests.
Your vet will do a work-up and present a treatment plan tailored to your pet.
Products Commonly Recommended by Vets as Part of the Atopy Treatment Plan:
Essential Fatty Acid Supplements
Good quality Omega-3 fatty acid supplements can help reduce inflammation from allergies or skin issues, which may alleviate itching, redness, and irritation.
A deficiency in essential fatty acids can also result in dry, flaky skin, causing your pet to shed more and look dull.
Signs that your pet is deficient in Essential Fatty Acids
- Dull or Poor Coat
- Increased Shedding
- Dry or Flaky Skin
- Skin Allergies
- Slow Wound Healing
- Ear Infections
- Hot Spots
Medicated Shampoos to Soothe Itching
Regular grooming, even without an infection, using appropriate, medicated shampoos can be beneficial for treating allergies.
These shampoos typically contain ingredients that soothe skin inflammation and itching while also helping to remove potential allergens from the skin and coat.
The VIRBAC shampoo range is tailored to specific conditions, such as dermatitis, seborrhoea, and dry skin, providing targeted treatment options.
TOP TIP: 10 minutes of skin contact is the minimum requirement for any medicated shampoo. Premature rinsing will not allow for the therapeutic benefit to be realized.
Just like humans, pets can develop allergies or sensitivities to food and environmental factors, which can lead to itchy skin and coat problems.
The good news is that specialised skin care diets, whether prescription or over-the-counter foods, can help.
These diets are packed with omega fatty acids, high-quality proteins, and essential vitamins to nourish the skin, reduce itching, and promote a healthy coat.
While food plays a key role in improving skin resilience, environmental allergies may also require additional treatments like antihistamines or medicated baths for best results.
Food Allergies in Pets
Food allergies in pets, particularly in dogs and cats, are relatively uncommon compared to other types of allergies, such as those caused by environmental factors.
However, they can still be a significant cause of discomfort, leading to symptoms like itching, skin infections, ear infections, gastrointestinal issues, and more.
It is estimated that food allergies account for 10-15% of all allergic reactions in dogs and cats.
If your pet shows signs of persistent allergies, it’s important to consult a veterinarian to determine if a food allergy is the cause.
If your pet is dealing with frequent skin or gut issues, an elimination-challenge can be a great way to figure out if food allergies are to blame.
This process starts with a special diet that cuts out common allergens, then slowly reintroduces potential problem foods to see if they trigger a reaction.
During the trial, it’s crucial to avoid other allergens like flavoured toothpastes, medications, treats and supplements to get clear results.
Your vet will guide you in choosing the right diet—whether it’s a novel one with new proteins or a hydrolysed diet with proteins broken into tiny pieces to avoid allergies.
With your vet’s help and a good diet history, you can find the best approach for your pet’s needs.
For pets that are prone to minor skin issues, several brands available offer specially formulated skin care diets for dogs & cats that support healthy skin and coat.
These tailored diets are designed to reduce inflammation, improve skin barrier function, and provide essential nutrients that promote skin health by using high-quality proteins, Omega fatty acids, limited ingredient formulas and added vitamins and minerals.
Infections and Hot Spots
Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are painful, red patches on a pet’s skin that look irritated and sometimes a raised.
It’s a superficial skin infection which is often started by the pet chewing or scratching at the site.
Hot spots are typically a result from an underlying problem that causes itching, excessive licking, or too much moisture.
Common culprits include:
- Allergies (flea allergies, food allergies, or seasonal allergies)
- Ear infections
- Excess moisture from swimming
- Overly frequent licking
- Poor grooming
Hot Spots usually develop on the face, neck, legs, or hips, often with some hair loss, and can grow bigger within a few days.
If caught early enough, there are home treatment options such as Pannatural Drying Paste, Hot Spot Relief Balm, Dermavet and other wound care products.
DID YOU KNOW: Breeds like Labradors, Golden Retrievers, English Bulldogs, and German Shepherds are more likely to get hot spots. This is because of their thick coats, sensitive skin, and love for being active?
Dogs’ fur traps moisture so too much licking or scratching can easily turn into a hot spot.
To prevent hot spots, be sure to thoroughly towel-dry your dog, especially in hard-to-reach areas, after bathing or swimming.
When to Worry About Excessive Scratching?
While occasional scratching is normal, excessive or persistent scratching may indicate an underlying health issue. It’s important to take your dog or cat to the vet if you notice:
- Scratching persists for more than a few days.
- The skin becomes red, swollen, or has open sores.
- Your pet seems to be in pain or discomfort.
- Hair loss, bleeding, or a foul odour develops.
In conclusion, by understanding the reasons behind your pet’s scratching and maintaining year-round tick and flea control, you can ensure a happier, healthier pet.
Regular check-ups with your vet and a proactive approach to skin health will go a long way in keeping your pet comfortable and itch-free.
