vet-n-pet DIRECT Online Autumn Catalogue
Issue link: https://vet-n-pet-direct.uberflip.com/i/1112230
protein source and then determining the cause of the allergy through a restriction and elimination diet. Contact dermatitis is when an animal reacts or has an allergy to something they have direct contact with. This is commonly things like plants, grass, dust mites, mould or a poison. The skin reaction or itchiness will be where they have touched the allergen, usually on the feet, belly or the underside of the dog. Unfortunately there is no way to tell exactly what the allergy is caused by, however a vet will be able to make an educated guess based on the presentation of the itch and skin effect, as well as information like the time of year, what plants are around and where the pet has been. Atopic dermatitis is caused by inhaling an allergen such as a grass, seed or pollen and the body then having an abnormal immune response to it. Because it is inhaled the body does produce antibodies which means that the cause can be accurately determined through allergy testing. Blood tests can pick up the allergens or a dermatology specialist can undertake a skin test (prick testing) to determine the antibodies that are present in the system and causing a reaction. When a pet has been scratching or biting at themselves they can also develop secondary bacterial and fungal infections which can cause them to be itchy aswell. This is something that a veterinarian will be able to diagnose and treat if necessary. If you do have a pet that you notice biting or scratching more than the odd occasion, please take them to your veterinarian for a consultation to see if there is an underlying cause. Unfortunately the problem will probably not just go away on its own and treating the issue in the early stages is always best for your pet. For more information on the causes of itchy skin and treatment options please tune into the myPET Podcast Episode 18.1: My Dog Won't Stop Scratching or visit the vet-n-pet DIRECT Help Centre. When scratching or biting becomes more than just the occasional scratch, bite or roll around, it might be a problem. When scratching or biting becomes more than just the occasional scratch, bite or roll around, it might be a problem.