Skin conditions are one of the most common reasons pets visit a veterinary clinic and can affect animals of all ages and breeds.

Symptoms or signs of skin disease may include:

• Excessive itching, licking, or chewing at the skin

• Hair loss or thinning of the coat

• Redness, inflammation, or skin that feels warm to the touch

• Rashes, scabs, or bumps

• Unpleasant odour

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Canine and feline skin can be affected by a wide range of conditions including allergies, hormonal (endocrine) diseases, ectoparasites, infections, and immune-mediated disorders.

Many skin conditions are associated with disruption of the skin barrier, either as a primary problem or secondary to ongoing irritation and inflammation. Once the skin barrier is compromised, the skin becomes more susceptible to allergens, bacteria, and yeast, which can lead to itching, inflammation, secondary infections, and ongoing skin dysfunction.

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At Bilgola Vet Clinic, our veterinarians perform a thorough examination and may recommend diagnostic testing such as skin scrapes, cytology, or allergy investigations to determine the underlying cause of your pet’s discomfort.

Once a diagnosis has been made, we can develop an individual treatment plan to help relieve irritation, manage flare-ups, and improve your pet’s quality of life.

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Early treatment is important to prevent ongoing discomfort and secondary infections. If you notice changes in your pet’s skin or coat, our team is here to help.

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