Discover the Uncomfortable Reality of Pet Hot Spots
When your beloved furry companion experiences intense itching that sets their skin ablaze, they resort to scratching, licking, and chewing, often leading to the formation of hot spots. Explore the knowledge about these highly uncomfortable sores and learn how to help your pet overcome the itchiness.
What are hot spots in pets?
Hot spots, also referred to as acute moist dermatitis or pyotraumatic dermatitis, are inflamed sores that develop on the skin of pets. These sores seemingly appear overnight and rapidly transform into painful, oozing wounds that cause extreme discomfort for your pet.
What causes hot spots in pets?
Hot spots are typically triggered by skin inflammation resulting from environmental factors, flea allergies, or food allergies. However, anything that compels your pet to excessively lick, chew, or scratch an area to the point of rawness can contribute to hot spot development.
Hot spots can be triggered by:
– Ear infections
– Skin infections
– Matted fur
– Urinary tract infections
– Anal gland issues
How are hot spots in pets treated?
Taking swift action is crucial when it comes to treating your pet’s hot spots to prevent deeper skin infections. As soon as you notice a small area of inflammation, it’s essential to place an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) on your pet to prevent further irritation of the skin.
When you bring your pet to our hospital for hot spot treatment, we may administer sedation along with a potent pain-relieving medication, as hot spots can cause excruciating pain upon touch. Once your pet is comfortable, we will carefully trim away matted fur to promote airflow to the affected area. Wet, matted fur can foster infection and must be eliminated to facilitate the healing of the hot spot.
Next, we will cleanse the area gently using an antiseptic rinse to remove fur and debris, followed by the application of topical medications to soothe the itch and treat the infection on clean, dry skin. Further treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the hot spot, and we may recommend allergy treatment, anal gland expression, ear medication, regular grooming, or other appropriate therapies.
If you spot an irritated and inflamed area on your pet’s skin, don’t hesitate. Get in touch with our team to schedule an appointment before a minor irritation escalates into a large and painful hot spot.