Skin and Coat Problems in Dogs and Cats

Fleas, Demodicosis (red mange), dermatitis, sarcoptic mange, itchy, dry patches and other skin problems can make life miserable for you and your pet. The resulting scratching, itching, biting and licking contributes to the vicious cycle that a dog or cat with skin problems endures.

Thankfully, there are many natural pet products available to combat fleas, reduce hots spots and itching and help treat the underlying problems (usually immune-related) that may be causing skin irritations and disease.

Read on for information about skin and coat problems in pets or click here to go directly to our list of recommended products to help fight skin disorders in pets.

Read the Natural Treatments section to learn how essential fatty acids can improve your pet's skin and coat and also how an immune support product like Immugen can help fight the underlying problems that can lead to skin problems.

Common Skin Problems

Here are some of the more common skin disorders:
Allergic Dermatitis, Sarcoptic Mange, General Dermatitis and Demodicosis. For dermatitis caused by flea bites, see the Flea Bite Dermatitis page.

Allergic dermatitis is probably the most common sk in disease that affects companion animals.  “Atopic Dermatitis,” also called atopy, is the technical term for allergies.  Atopy is a genetic disease in which a dog or cat becomes sensitized to environmental proteins called allergens.  In non-allergic pets, these allergens produce no symptoms.  In allergic dogs and cats, the allergens cause the clinical signs you commonly see, which include itching and the pet’s associated scratching and chewing. 

Allergies usually occur within 1 to 3 years of a pet being exposed to environmental allergens.  As a result, pets vary in the age at which they begin to display signs of allergies.  While some dogs may exhibit symptoms in early puppyhood, others may not do so until midlife or even later.  Typically, the animal suffers from itching, and scratches, licks, and bites in an ongoing effort for relief. They can experience hair loss (from repeated licking), seborrhea, thick and damaged skin. Treatment options include antihistamines, oral and topical steroids, avoidance of allergens and supplements containing essential fatty acid and antioxidants. See the Natural Treatments section to learn how EFA's and antioxidants support the skin.

Sarcoptic Mange, or scabies is a tiny, crablike creature that burrows into a dog’s skin and causes terrible itching.  The mite is invisible to the naked eye, and therefore is sometimes diagnosed as an allergic reaction.  The itching and inflammation associated with Sarcoptic Mange usually begins at the ears and elbows and then spreads down the pet’s legs.  One telltale sign is the ferocious scratching that your pet engages in, and which seems to compound the inflammation and itching.  As the problem progresses, you may detect a characteristic, pungently foul odor from your dog. Sarcoptic Mange is highly contagious so it is best to take your pet into the vet for immediate treatment. During and after treatment, antioxidants and essential fatty acids (Omega 3,6, and 9) may be beneficial to help restore the skin to a healthy state. See the Natural Treatments section to learn how EFA's and antioxidants support the skin.

General Dermatitis is a very frequent problem found in dogs and cats and proves difficult to treat, as there may be many causes. Dermatitis can range from simple reddening of the skin to severe, chronic open sores with thickening of the skin, hair loss and odor. Since the skin is a reflection of the health of the internal organs and immune system, the lesions are really secondary to other chronic diseases such as bowel disorders and allergies.  Treatment is aimed at reducing inflammation of the skin and strengthening the immune system. See the Natural Treatments section to learn how EFA's and antioxidants support the skin.

Suggested Skin Products:
Ultimate Skin/Coat
Septiderm-V bath
Septiderm-V lotion and spray
Septiderm-V supplement
Herbal Flea Powder
FleaDerm Cream
Kelp Help
Bitter Yuck!
Super EPA
Immugen
Moducare
Dermaclear
Small Animal Antioxidant

Related Topics:

Flea Bite Dermatitis

Skin Conditions and the Immune System

Fatty Acids are Essential for a Healthy Coat

Here's what pet owners have to say:

I tell every one of my pet lover friends about your site and your products! I love Immugen and can really see the difference in my 10 year old corgi who has developed demodectitis. I use this along with your Moducare as well as switching both my corgi's to an organic and natural diet.
Leighann M., Front Royal, VA

Demodicosis (also called Red mange or Demodectic Mange), is one example of a situation where an immune deficiency allows a benign situation to become untenable.  The red mange mite is considered a normal inhabitant of all dogs’ skin and is not a problem until an immune deficiency allows the mites to reproduce in great numbers and make the dog miserable.  When adult dogs develop dermodocis, it is usually the result of an underlying cause that is immune-related such as hypothyroid disease or Cushing's disease. Also geriatric dogs may be more susceptible to demodectic mange because their immune system doesn't function as efficiently as it did when they were younger. An immune support product like Immugen or Moducare would be beneficial for dogs with a compromised immune system. See the Natural Treatments section to learn how a strong immune system is essential for healthy skin.

Conventional Treatment

Typically a veterinarian will try to hone in on the underlying problem for the skin condition.  This can prove difficult and time consuming when your pet is in misery.  Food or airborne allergies may be nearly impossible to isolate.  Immune system problems are similarly complex and hard to diagnose. 

Some veterinarians prescribe corticosteriods for the relief of allergies and other skin irritations.  Such prescriptions mask the symptoms of the problem, rather than alleviate it and can also cause long-term damage to the liver, gastrointestinal tract, suppression of the immune system, diabetes, osteoporosis and other problems.  In the case of red mange, cortisone may provide relief for only a day, rather than weeks.  Other medical treatments for red mange are very toxic.  They involve dipping the animal into treatments that may kill the mites, but fail to address the immune deficiency that is the underlying problem. 

Natural Treatments

A holistic approach to the treatment of your pet’s skin conditions is the best way to ensure a successful outcome.  Focus on providing a high quality diet which will lessen the occurence of allergic episodes because they contain fewer grains and animal products than lower quality commercial diets.

Next, consider the overall health of your pet. Does your cat or dog get sick easily, have chronic infections or allergies. If the underlying problem is a compromised immune system, consult with your veterinarian about whether they could benefit from an immune support product like Immugen or Moducare.

If your dog or cat is in good health but experiences dry, flaky skin, and itchiness, then essential fatty acids and antioxidants may help to promote healthy skin because they work at the cellular level to provide the nutrients needed for skin development. Ultimate Skin and Coat and Kelp Help are excellent products that provide a good source of Omega fatty acids and antioxidant vitamins and minerals for healthy skin. Super EPA contains fish oil concentrate, which is considered the best source of Omega-3 fatty acids.

The following nutrients are necessary for the development of healthy skin and coats in animals:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA and DHA) - These are vital nutrients that help prevent the skin from drying and flaking.  In addition, they are also natural anti-inflammatory agents, which gives them a double role in alleviating skin conditions. 
• Omega-6 Fatty Acids (Linoleic Acid) are an essential component for chemical reactions in the body. However, in dogs, linoleic acid cannot be synthesized so it must be consumed from a dietary source. Linoleic Acid is important for normal skin and coat health, for cell membrane integrity and fat-soluble vitamin interactions.
• Vitamin C is essential to overall health. This antioxidant aids in resisting viral and bacterial infections, and reduces the effects of some allergy-producing substances. Its primary function is to maintain collagen, a protein necessary for the formation of skin, ligaments and bones.  Vitamin C also enhances T-cell production which helps to fight off viral and bacterial infections and some allergies. Vitamin C is especially beneficial to animals with any type of chronic disease, infection allergy or dermatitis.
• Vitamin E prevents the fats and fat-soluble vitamin A stored in the body from breaking down and combining with other substances that may become harmful to the body.
• Vitamin A is vital for healthy skin and good eyesight.  It plays an important part in the growth and repair of body tissues.
• Zinc is an essential trace mineral found in most tissues of the body and a deficiency in this mineral can increase a pet's susceptibility to infection.

For Immune-Related Skin Disorders: The following nutrients have been shown to support the immune system so that it is better able to fight disease and infections:

• Reishi mushrooms work as an anti-inflammatory and antihistamine to relieve respiratory ailments and allergy symptoms. They have been found to enhance immune modulators, which are important for fighting viral and bacterial infections and they also inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
  
• Echinacea is an immune stimulant that helps the body defend itself against viral infection. It works in two ways: 1) It contains three compounds with specific antiviral activity—caffeic acid, chicoric acid and echinacin and 2) the root extracts of echinacea act like interferon, the body’s own antiviral compound.  Echinacea has been used by Native Americans to heal wounds and skin problems, and reduce inflammation.
• Astragulus root has been used for thousands of years in traditional chinese medicine to strengthen Chi, the building block of physical and spiritual energy. More recently, it has been used to restore immune function in cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy.
• Thymus (Bovine) - The thymus is responsible for many immune system functions, including the production of T lymphocytes, which are extremely important to protecting animals from bacteria, fungi, parasites, viruses, cancer, allergies, dermatitis and immune disorders.

For general skin disorders or to maintain a healthy coat, we recommend the following products containing essential fatty acids and antioxidants:
(Also, see the article Fatty Acids are Essential for a Healthy Coat.)

Ultimate Skin and Coat from NaturVet

Formulated with only the highest quality, all natural active ingredients, Ultimate Skin and Coat by NaturVet combines the benefits of natural Omega 3, 6 & 9 Fatty Acids for healthy skin and a glossy coat. Fortified with biotin, vitamins, and minerals important to maintain normal digestion and for overall health.

To purchase or read more about Ultimate Skin and Coat..

Kelp Help from NaturVet

Kelp Help combines the benefits of natural Omega 3, 6, and 9 Fatty Acids for healthy skin and a glossy coat, as well as being fortified with ESSENTIAL vitamins and minerals important to maintain normal digestion and proper vitamin utilization.

To purchase or read more about Kelp Help...

Super EPA

Super EPA is a fish oil concentrate that is a superior source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Omege-3s are needed to help prevent skin from drying and cracking and they are also an anti-inflammatory.  This will improve the quality of your pet’s coat and reduce the swelling and wounding associated with biting and scratching.

To purcharse or read more about Super EPA..

Septiderm-V Skin and Coat Supplement from GreenTree

A high quality dietary supplement with Omega 3, 6 & 9 Fatty Acids from natural sources fortified with vitamins for healthy skin and a glossy coat on your pet. Relieves itching, dull coat and excessive shedding when caused by dietary (fatty acid and/or vitamin) deficiency.

Contains no hormones or antihistamines and may be fed as needed to control itching, or every day for a beautiful coat.

To purchase or read more about Septiderm-V Skin and Coat Supplement...

Immune Related Skin Conditions - Many skin disorders are associated with deficiencies in the pet's immune system. Ask your vet if these products containing powerful antioxidants and/or plant sterols will help support the immune system in fighting some skin problems.

An impaired immune system can lead to many secondary problems, including skin disorders. Immugen's unique formula combines vitamins, minerals, amino acids, botanicals and other nutrients for optimal immune system functioning. This powerful formula contains the antioxidant vitamins A, C and E, Zinc, NAC, Thymus, Reishi Mushrooms, and the herbs Echinacea, and Astragalus which are known to help the immune system fight bacterial and viral infections as well as reduce inflammation. See the article on Skin Conditions and the Immune System for more information.

To purchase or read more about Immugen...

Moducare from Thorne Research

Moducare is a blend of plant sterols and sterolins.  These natural ingredients are found in all fruits and vegetables and are important in the function of the immune system.  They have been found to enhance the development of natural killer and T-helper cell activity, which allows your pet to more easily fight off infections.

To purchase or read more about Moducare...

Small Animal Antioxidant from Thorne Research

Small Animal Antioxidants combine a group of powerful antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, E, beta carotene, selenium, grape seed extract, lipoic acid and silymarin.  These ingredients are potent fighters of free radicals.

To purchase or read more about Small Animal Antioxidant...

.

If your veterinarian is knowledgeable about Chinese veterinary medicine, ask them about this formula for skin problems.

Dermaclear from Thorne Research

Dermaclear is a Chinese herbal, formulated to reduce heat and inflammation associated with skin conditions and to stop pet itching without having a sedative effect.  Its use will preclude the companion animal’s ongoing skin damage and misery from skin conditions. 

To purchase or read more about Dermaclear....

Herbal Flea Pet Powder from NaturVet

NaturVet’s Herbal Flea Powder can be used directly on dogs, cats, puppies and kittens over the age of six weeks, or can be used on any type of pet bedding, such as pillows, foam beds, and blankets. The unique natural combination of Rosemary and Cedar Oil repels fleas while deodorizing and absorbing excessive skin oils. Herbal Flea Powder will leave your pet, or your pet’s bed, with a fresh and pleasant fragrance. Will not interfere with other spot-on products such as Advantage®.

To purchase or read more about Herbal Flea Powder...

PetAlive FleaDerm contain a blend of natural ingredients in an herbal cream and will effectively treat, soothe, and prevent flea bite dermatitis in dogs and cats, without the side effects of prescription creams for this condition. German Chamomile is a cleansing agent and acts as an anti-inflammatory; Cleavers helps to expel toxins from the body; Marigold helps prevent infections with its anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties; and Witchhazel helps to reduce inflammation, bleeding and pain.

To purchase or read more about FleaDerm Cream...

Septiderm-V Bath from GreenTree

Relieves itching due to skin problems that may be caused by hot spots, flea bites, dermatitis, rashes and skin allergies.

In addition to its antiseptic action, it is a very effective deodorant shampoo and excellent grooming aid.

Regular bathing plus the use of Septiderm-V Lotion on all areas where inflammation, hair loss or sores are evident will provide relief from intense itching of bacterial skin infection.

Septiderm-V Lotion and new Spray Lotion from GreenTree

Relieves intense itching of bacterial skin infections and when accompanied by regular bathing with Septiderm-V Bath, will aid in the control of such conditions. Excellent for minor skin injuries and as a deodorant lotion.

Soothing, non-greasy, antiseptic lotion for dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens over 6 weeks of age and horses.

Apply Bitter Yuck! No Chew Spray over Septiderm-V Lotion to stop licking.

To purchase or read more about Septiderm-V Lotion...

Bitter Yuck! No Chew Spray by NaturVet

Bitter Yuck! No Chew Spray is a clear, non-sticky spray to stop animals from chewing or gnawing on inappropriate areas such paws, tails, wounds bandages, furniture, and drapes.

Bitter Yuck! is water-based so it doesn't sting like alcohol-based products. It is easy-to-apply and will not stain.

Bitter Yuck! is especially helpful for cats and dogs that have skin and coat disorders that become worse because of licking and scratching. Bitter Yuck! will effectively discourage your dog or cat from licking and chewing treated areas.

To purchase or read more about Bitter YucK!...