If you find a hot spot on your pet, it’s important to treat it right away, even if it appears to be mild, because they rarely get better without treatment. It’s best to seek veterinary care for the wound, because in addition to shaving around the wound and thoroughly cleansing it, your pet may need oral antibiotics, and in many cases will also benefit from steroids and/or antihistamines to relieve the itching. One of the most important aspects of treatment is to prevent your pet from licking the wound! One of the key aspects of treating a hot spot is determining why it occurred. If the underlying cause is not addressed, the existing hot spot is unlikely to heal, and more will likely appear. There are a number of steps you can take to help prevent hot spots: • Keep your pet current on flea preventives • Keep your pet well-groomed (remember, bacteria thrives in warm, dirty, moist conditions) • Maintain a healthy weight in your pet. Bacteria thrives in skin folds, too. • Maintain healthy skin and coat with good nutrition, and nutritional supplements if necessary. • Notice where your pet is licking: if the problem is near its anus, then an anal gland problem may be to blame. • Try to reduce stress and boredom for your pet, as both can lead habitual licking.
Posted on: Tue, 22 Jul 2014 17:53:17 +0000
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