Some advice on managing pet skin problems
By Dr Amy Carleton, Maleny Vet Services
AS the Sunny Coast Hinterland warms up, many pets are shedding their winter coats, which can lead to itchy skin, allergies, and hotspots.
Warm, humid weather creates ideal conditions for skin problems in pets. Mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks become more active, grasses and pollens trigger allergies, and damp coats after swimming or rain can lead to bacterial and fungal infections.
In dogs and cats, these issues often appear as red, flaky, or smelly skin, hair loss, or constant scratching and licking. The team at Maleny Vets has already noticed an increase in pets presenting with dermatitis and allergy flare-ups over the past month.
Even pets on regular parasite control can struggle this time of year, as the combination of heat, humidity, and high pollen counts can be challenging for sensitive skin.
Most skin conditions can be managed effectively with proper diagnosis and care. Maleny Vets offers thorough skin assessments, locally tailored parasite control, and allergy testing. They can then recommend medications, medicated shampoos, diet changes, and environmental management to help reduce flare-ups.
If your pet is scratching, biting, losing fur, or seems uncomfortable, don’t wait for it to clear on its own. Early treatment can prevent minor irritations from developing into painful infections.
Call Maleny Vets on 5494 3622 or book a check-up online at www.malenyvet.com.au to keep your pet comfortable and happy—because healthy skin means more enjoyable adventures in the sunshine.
