Dermatology refers to the study of the skin. Skin disease is a frequently observed problem in dogs and cats. Diagnosing a skin problem in your pet may simply require an examination by a veterinarian; however, most skin diseases or problems require additional steps to accurately obtain a diagnosis. Additional diagnostic procedures may include blood work, urinalysis, skin scrapings, biopsies, etc.
Common causes of skin problems:
- Allergies-allergic skin disease is the most cause of skin disease in dogs
- Infections
- External parasites-lice, fleas, mites
- Hormonal or endocrine-skin diseases from hormonal causes are not itchy.
You should book an appointment for your animal if you notice any excessive itchy behavior, loss of hair, and/or the presence of scabs or scale on the skin.