Content
- Causes and risk factors that cause atopic dermatitis
- Atopic dermatitis symptoms
- Diagnosis of atopic dermatitis
- Treatment of atopic dermatitis
- Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs - Natural Remedies
THE canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a chronic skin disease that causes inflammation or hypersensitivity due to an allergy. Affected dogs constantly scratch and rub themselves trying to alleviate their discomfort.
It mainly affects young dogs, although it can also appear in adults. The origin is unknown, but it is estimated that there may be a genetic factor that predisposes it.
In this article by the Animal Expert, we will explain the typical symptoms of atopic dermatitis in dogs and some advice on the treatment that can be applied. There are also some natural remedies that can be helpful in treating this troublesome disease.
Causes and risk factors that cause atopic dermatitis
THE genetic inheritance seems to be the predominant factor in the development of atopic dermatitis, since in dogs related to each other, its incidence is noticeably higher. However, the presence of allergens is necessary to develop the disease. Among these allergens, the most common are:
- Pollen
- Dandruff
- fungus spores
- Chemicals for household cleaning
- Dust
- Mites
- animal bites
- Fertilizers
- There
- feathers
However, it is estimated that some breeds are more susceptible developing atopic dermatitis, such as the West Highland White Terrier, Boxer, Labrador Retriever, Dalmatian, Shar Pei, German Shepherd or French Bulldog.
Atopic dermatitis symptoms
In most cases, symptoms of this disease appear. between 3 and 6 months of age, but usually go unnoticed during the first year, as during this period the signs are weak and not very evident. As the disease progresses, they become more noticeable and may include:
- itchy skin
- body licks
- skin bites
- Constant friction of the body (feet, face and belly)
- Allergic rhinitis
- tearful eyes
- skin discoloration
- Hair discoloration in affected areas
- Skin lesions
- pustules
- scratches
- wounds
- Polite
- crusts
- skin scars
- hair loss
- skin infections
- sore and sore ears
- ear infections
- thick and darkened skin
If we see any of these symptoms, it's important look for the veterinarian to make a diagnosis and check if the dog really has this disease. Below, we explain which tests are used to diagnose DAC.
Diagnosis of atopic dermatitis
Diagnosis can be difficult as atopic dermatitis presents symptoms similar to many other diseases of skin. However, based on the dog's history, the veterinarian may request an allergy study.
Sometimes this study is done using a small blood sample of the dog, but these serological tests are not very effective. The most appropriate study is an intradermal analysis, in which small amounts of different allergens are injected under the dog's skin. The allergens that cause the disease will produce an immediate response.
Treatment of atopic dermatitis
atopic dermatitis there is no cure, but you can follow an adequate treatment that allows the dog to have a good quality of life. Treatment for each dog will depend on the severity of the disease, the specific causes, the existence of secondary infections and other aspects specific to each case.
However, in general, the goal is eliminate or reduce the presence of allergens that cause dermatitis. If these allergens cannot be identified (which is quite common), the presence of environmental factors that have the potential to cause the disease mentioned above is usually eliminated. Thus, the dog's living conditions have to be modified, sometimes even changing its house or even its diet.
In more complicated cases, the use of corticosteroids can be prescribed. These medications help reduce the problems of atopic dermatitis, however they have Side effects when administered for a long time. Therefore, the veterinarian must decide how to use them, as the dog will be medicated for life.
Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs - Natural Remedies
As we mentioned earlier, there is no effective treatment for atopic dermatitis in dogs and many people reject the use of corticosteroids because of their long-term effects. For this reason, at PeritoAnimal, we offer some tips you can use if your dog suffers from this disease:
- Avoid walking your dog early in the morning and in the afternoon, when there is more pollen buildup. Mid-morning or evening are the best times.
- Check the composition of your dog's food and consult your veterinarian if it is advisable to choose a better quality or more natural food. Foods based on rice and fish are generally recommended for dogs with allergies. Home diets are also an excellent option.
- Brush your hair daily to avoid dandruff, accumulated dirt, and pollen.
- Avoid mountainous locations during autumn, when more fungal spores are found in the environment. Keep this natural food away from the dog.
- Sweep daily to eliminate mites, dead hair, dust and dirt.
- Constantly clean your house with natural products that don't cause allergies in your dog. An example is cleaning with lemon, although it can also be done with baking soda or vinegar.
- Do not use chemicals to care for your garden.
- Use cotton or natural composition fabrics for your dog. Avoid wool and feathers.
Here are some simple tricks you can perform to help your dog not seriously suffer from this disease, but don't forget that the veterinarian will provide appropriate advice. for your particular case therefore it is highly recommended to carry out a consultation.
This article is for information purposes only, at PeritoAnimal.com.br we are not able to prescribe veterinary treatments or perform any type of diagnosis. We suggest that you take your pet to the veterinarian in case it has any type of condition or discomfort.