A very common problem in our area is allergic skin disease. Affected pets may constantly lick, chew, bite, or scratch. Head shaking may be associated with an ear infection, frequently seen along with allergies. Other signs may be hair loss (alopecia), malodorous skin or ears, or changes in the skin’s color or texture.

Diagnosis often consists of ruling out ectoparasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites. We can check for ear mites, and do tests for mange or scabies. Ringworm (dermatophytosis) can be tested for.

Diagnosis might also include cytology impression smears or fine-needle aspirates.

Bacterial, viral, and fungal skin infections as well as neoplastic skin diseases can also be treated.

Allergies may be due to environmental causes such as pollen, mold, or dust mites. Food allergies are also sometimes present. Some breeds may show a predilection for atopy or food allergies.

Although it is rare to be able to completely cure allergic skin diseases, it is often possible to manage them successfully with excellent quality of life.

Therapy may include:

• Apoquel
• Antibiotics
• Immunotherapy
• Heska Allercept Drops
• Cytopoint
• Parasite treatment
• Prednisone/prednisolone
• Atopica (cyclosporine)
• Fish oil or Omega-3 fatty acid supplements
• Antihistamines

EVESHAM VETERINARY CLINIC

800 ROUTE 73 SOUTH

MARLTON, NJ 08053

(856) 983-9440

eveshamvet.com

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