Skin diseases can be classified as either infectious or allergic. The most common infectious skin diseases include ringworm, scabies, fleas and lice. Both young and old animals are susceptible to infections because of poor immune systems or other diseases. These diseases can cause intense itching and hair loss. Affected animals can usually be completely cured with medication.
🔹Ringworm
One of the most common infectious skin diseases. They usually only affect animals with weak immune systems or other underlying diseases. Having said that, Hong Kong's humid and hot weather is conducive to the growth of ringworm, so animals of virtually any age can be infected. Initial infection of ringworm will not cause itching of the skin, but the animal will experience hair loss. Once the animal is infected, the home environment also needs to be disinfected and cleaned, especially in recurrent cases, with 1:10 diluted bleach. The animal's blankets and toys are also best replaced. However, in an environment with long-haired cats or multiple cats and dogs, animals can easily be infected again. Ringworm can be transmitted to humans and animals, and children and the elderly are more susceptible to infection. Contact with animals should be avoided until they are completely cured.
🔹Scabies
It is a highly contagious skin disease. The parasite is spread by direct contact. Affected animals develop an extremely itchy, erythematous rash and crusting, especially on the tips of the ears, elbows, feet, abdomen, and chest. Strict quarantine and appropriate medication are necessary. Treatment for scabies is simple and effective, but animals may require 4-6 weeks of treatment to be completely cured. Scabies is also zoonotic and people who come into contact with animals infected with scabies may become infected, but the infection is usually short-lived and the itching usually dissipates after the animal recovers.
Flea infestations are common. Some owners overlook the importance of flea prevention. Affected animals will have an extremely itchy, reddish rash and hair loss, usually around the tail. Treating a flea infestation is simple, using flea drops to kill the fleas. However, because flea eggs and pupae in the home can reinfect the home animal, the home environment needs to be thoroughly cleaned and treated with an appropriate insecticide.
🔹 Lice infestation
It is rare. However, once infected, it can cause severe itching and hair loss. Lice are spread by direct contact. They usually gather around the ears, neck, shoulders and anal area. Treatment is similar to treating flea infestations. Use flea drops to kill the lice, clean the environment and change the animal's blankets and toys.
In fact, the symptoms of most infectious skin diseases are very similar, so if you find that your pet has abnormal itching and hair loss, you should take it to the veterinary clinic for examination immediately.
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