Flea Allergy Dermatitis in Dogs | Prevention & Treatment of Flea Allergy Dermatitis : PetsMD Pet Health

SYSTEM(S) EFFECTED:	Skin and hair coat
CAUSE(S):	Allergic reaction to fleas
TREATMENT:	Drug therapy
PREVENTION:	Yes

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) is the number one cause of itching in dogs.

SOURCE & CAUSE(S)

Interestingly, dogs are not allergic to the actual flea itself; it is their saliva that causes such an itching festival. Your dog does not have to be infested with fleas in order to develop FAD; it only takes one flea to start the itching and scratching. 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, set off an intense irritation over the body.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Dogs that are suffering from Flea Allergy often exhibit the “flea triangle”; this describes the hair loss from the middle of the back to the tail base and down the rear legs. This is usually accompanied with severe itching, scratching and chewing. You may notice the following:

Excessive itching and scratching
Chewing at the rump
All affected areas of skin become pink and inflamed
Hair Loss
Flaky Skin

DIAGNOSIS & TESTS

Diagnosis begins with a complete history and a physical exam. You can expect your veterinarian to do or recommend the following:

IgE allergy test - This is a new allergy test that requires a blood sample. The test indicates the presence of IgE antibodies in the bloodstream and will also reveal the specific allergens your pet might be reacting to.

TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT

Treatments 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 to provide relief from the itching and scratching. The BEST management for FAD is prevention!! Keeping your dog on a monthly flea control management system is the best way to avoid Flea Allergy Dermatitis.