Summer brings outdoor fun, but it can also mean pesky skin problems like hot spots for our pets. Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are common skin infections that cause red, inflamed, and painful areas your pet will want to scratch or lick nonstop.
๐ What Are Hot Spots?
Hot spots are localized areas of skin inflammation caused by irritation, allergies, insect bites, or excessive licking and scratching. When your pet irritates a spot repeatedly, it breaks the skin, allowing bacteria to infect the area, which worsens the problem.
โ ๏ธ Why Do Hot Spots Develop?
- ๐ Flea bites or insect allergies
- ๐ฟ Environmental allergies like pollen or grass
- ๐พ Moisture trapped under thick fur, especially in humid weather
- ๐ค Skin injuries or wounds
- ๐ฃ Underlying conditions causing itchiness, like ear infections or fleas
๐ How to Recognize Hot Spots
Look for:
- ๐ด Red, raw, and moist patches of skin
- ๐ Excessive licking, chewing, or scratching in one area
- ๐ Your pet may seem uncomfortable or restless
- ๐งด Hair loss around the spot
- ๐ง Sometimes a foul odor or discharge if infected
๐ What To Do If Your Pet Has a Hot Spot
- ๐ Contact Unleashed Veterinary Urgent Care for evaluation and treatment.
- โ๏ธ Avoid letting your pet lick or scratch the spotโyour vet may recommend an Elizabethan collar (cone) to protect the area.
- ๐งผ Gently clean the affected skin if advised, but avoid harsh scrubbing.
- ๐ Your vet may prescribe antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or medicated shampoos to speed healing.
- ๐ Keep your petโs fur trimmed around the area to promote airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
๐ Prevention Tips for Hot Spots
- ๐ Keep flea and tick prevention up to date.
- ๐ Bathe your pet regularly with vet-recommended shampoos.
- ๐จ Keep your petโs coat dry, especially after swimming or bathing.
- ๐ฟ Minimize exposure to allergens when possible.
- ๐พ Watch for early signs of itching or irritation and seek prompt veterinary advice.
โค๏ธ Caring for Your Pet at Unleashed Veterinary Urgent Care
Hot spots can develop quickly and cause significant discomfort. At Unleashed Veterinary Urgent Care, our expert team is here to diagnose and treat hot spots promptly, helping your pet get relief and return to feeling their best.