Allergic Dermatitis

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Allergic Dermatitis is described as the inflammation of the skin due to an allergic reaction from a triggering source. 

SOURCE & CAUSE(S)

There are many causes for allergic dermatitis, all stemming from allergens that are consumed, inhaled or that come into direct contact with the skin.  The leading cause for a reaction stems from flea bites.  When the flea bites, it injects a small amount of saliva into the skin to prevent the blood from clotting.  This reaction to the flea saliva can occur rapidly, and in some cases it only takes one flea bite to set off an intense irritation over the body.  An allergy to an ingredient in food can spark the same intense reaction.

 SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Areas of hair loss (due to scratching or licking) where the skin is red and irritated
• Scabs on the body due to excessive scratching

DIAGNOSIS & TESTS

Diagnosis begins with a complete history and a physical exam.  Because allergic dermatitis is almost always secondary to the source, expect your veterinarian to do several tests to rule out a few causes and to perform tests looking for the chief problem.  Possible chief problems he/she will be looking for are food allergies, fungal or bacterial infection, and external parasites such as fleas.

TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT

Treatment should include antibiotics to help clear the skin of any bacteria, antihistamines to help reduce the reaction and calm the itching, and sometimes a low dose of corticosteroid is given for more severe itching and scratching.

Further treatment will be determined once the underlying process causing the dermatitis has been diagnosed.

PREVENTION & HELPFUL TIPS

Keep your pets on monthly flea control to prevent an allergic outbreak.

PetsMD Recommends:
Vets Best Allergy Itch Relief Shampoo	Nutri-Vet Cool Skin for Cats	8 in 1 Excel Allergy Relief Tablets