How to Recognise and Treat Pets with Atopic Dermatitis in Sydney

Nov 8, 2023

If your pet is constantly scratching themselves or licking areas of their body such as their paws, ears, face or legs, they may be suffering from atopic dermatitis. This is a pruritic (itchy) skin disease of dogs and cats caused by an allergen which the pet inhales or ingests. Itching can occur all over the pet’s body, but it is commonly localised to the paws, face, ears, legs or under their armpits.

Possible Causes

Some allergens such as house dust mites or types of food may result in itchiness at any time of the year, whereas pollens may cause irritation during warmer months of the year. Atopic dermatitis is different to flea allergy dermatitis which occurs as a result of flea bites; however, the two conditions can occur together.

1. Allergens

If your pet is itching and licking particular areas of skin as a result of an inhaled or ingested allergen, these areas of irritated skin can become infected and very uncomfortable. If you notice that your cat or dog is frequently itching themselves, book your pet in for a veterinary health check at Sydney Animal Hospitals where an expert can fully assess the animal’s skin and discuss the treatment options.

2. Skin Treatment Options

Treatment usually involves managing both the symptoms of atopic dermatitis and the cause. This may include the use of anti-inflammatory, anti-histamine or immune-modulation medications, together with treating any secondary skin infections.

Skin allergy testing may also be recommended to help diagnose the allergen causing the atopic dermatitis in your pet. Our veterinarians will discuss these options further during the consultation.

3. Dietary Changes

Our vets will also discuss if topical anti-inflammatory ointments may be beneficial in addition to medicated shampoos. Adding essential fatty acids into your pet’s diet can also help with atopic dermatitis symptoms and our vets will determine whether a food trial may be beneficial to help identify potential food allergens like meat proteins. Prescription pet foods are also available to help atopic dermatitis treatment in pets.

To book your pet in for a skin health check at Sydney Animal Hospitals, please call our team or visit our website.