Hot Spots (Acute Moist
Dermatitis)
Overview:
Also known as acute moist
dermatitis, summer sores or
pyotraumatic dermatitis, hot
spots are a common skin disorder in dogs, appearing as localised areas
of skin inflammation & infection. They are the result of a localised
irritant that causes a break in the skin. Common causes include;
Whatever the cause, these
minor traumas cause irritation, which causes the dog to bite & scratch at
the area. This scratch-itch cycle causes further damage.
Hot spots appear very
suddenly, and enlarge quickly. Long haired breeds are more susceptible to
hot spots. They can appear on any part of the body, often in more than one
spot but are very common on the face, under the ears.
Symptoms of hot spots in
dogs:
-
Circular, warm, swollen,
red, oozing & painful patches of skin which exude pus, giving off a
foul odour.
-
Hair loss in the affected
area.
-
Itching of the affected area.
Treatment of hot spots in dogs:
Hot spots require immediate
veterinary attention. Removing the underlying cause, if it is found.
Treatment will include;
-
Clipping of the hair
surrounding the affected area & keeping the area dry.
-
Cleaning the affected area
with a mild antiseptic.
-
Antibiotic/steroid cream
or powder on the affected area.
-
Oral antibiotics may also
be prescribed.
-
An Elizabethan collar may
be necessary to prevent the dog traumatising the area further.
Preventing hot spots in dogs:
Prevention is difficult unless
an underlying cause is found.
Please note:
The medical
articles on this site have not been written by a
veterinarian & should not be considered a replacement for a
veterinarian visit. The articles are provided for
informative purposes only.
Always seek
immediate veterinary advice for any problems (health or
behavioral) in your pets.
While great
care has been made in the creation of these articles, we
cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages.
If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical
advice. |
