What is Dermatitis?
A general term for skin inflammation, with many possible causes — allergies, parasites, infections, or irritants — that causes itching, redness, and discomfort.
Dermatitis is a broad term that describes any inflammation of the skin, not a single disease — it is the visible result of very different underlying causes. The most common in dogs and cats include allergies (to fleas, mites, food, or environmental substances such as pollen and dust mites), secondary bacterial or fungal infections, contact with irritating products, and atopic dermatitis, a genetically based allergic predisposition that usually appears in young animals.
Typical signs include intense itching (pruritus), redness, hair loss in specific areas, sores caused by the animal scratching or licking itself, crusting or flaking of the skin, a strong odor, and, in chronic cases, thickening and darkening of the skin. The location of the lesions (ears, paws, groin, base of the tail) often gives important clues about the underlying cause.
Because the causes vary so much, so does treatment: it may involve flea and mite control, a diet change, allergy medication, or topical and oral antibiotics or antifungals, depending on the diagnosis. Untreated dermatitis tends to become chronic and harder to control. See a veterinary dermatologist or general practitioner if a pet is scratching frequently, has redness, sores, or visible hair loss, so the exact cause can be identified before starting any treatment.
Important notice
This calculator is for educational purposes and does not replace a veterinary evaluation. When in doubt, consult a veterinarian.Related terms
Ear Infection (Otitis)
Inflammation or infection of the ear canal, one of the most common reasons for veterinary visits, especially in dogs with floppy ears.
Ringworm (Dermatophytosis)
A fungal infection of the skin, hair, and nails, commonly called "ringworm," that causes circular patches of hair loss and is transmissible to humans.
Ectoparasite
A parasite that lives on the surface of an animal's body, such as fleas, ticks, and mites, which can cause itching, allergies, and transmit other diseases.