Signs of a possible skin problem
When your pet has a skin problem, you should see your veterinarian. If your pet has a skin problem there will be signs, often times, more than one. These signs are important clues. Here's what you should watch for:
Chewing
A little chewing once in a while is fine; a lot of chewing is not.
Chewing is one way pets react to itchy skin. Their teeth answer the need to scratch, albeit for only a short time.
Chewing can be serious because it can damage skin, creating an entry point for infection from bacteria, yeast, or fungus that live on the skin. This invasion can cause further complications and allow the infection to move into other areas of the body.
When you notice your pet chewing, observe the time of day, the environment, recent food or contact. Note all the details you can. This will be helpful information for your veterinarian as he or she investigates to determine the underlying cause.
Possible causes:
- Environmental allergies
- Food allergies
- Parasites
- Skin infections
- Pain
- Behavioral