If your dog just won’t stop scratching or your cat has started licking the same spot over and over, it’s natural to wonder what’s going on. Skin and coat changes are some of the most common concerns pet owners notice, and while they may seem minor at first, they can often point to something deeper happening beneath the surface.
From seasonal allergies and parasites to infections and hot spots, many different conditions can cause similar signs like itching, redness, hair loss, or changes in your pet’s coat. Because these issues can progress quickly without proper care, having your pet evaluated by a veterinarian is the best way to ensure they stay comfortable and healthy.
Learning the early warning signs of common dog and cat skin problems can help you feel more confident knowing when to seek professional care and give your pet the timely attention they deserve.
The Most Common Skin & Coat Issues in Dogs and Cats
Skin and coat changes can show up in many different ways, from mild itchiness to noticeable discomfort or hair loss. While every pet is unique, the vets at Paws & Claws Veterinary Hospital regularly see several recurring skin concerns in both dogs and cats.
Fleas and Other Parasites
Even a small number of fleas can lead to significant irritation. Our veterinarians frequently see pets with persistent scratching, scabs, redness, and hair thinning – especially around the neck, back, and base of the tail. Some pets develop a sensitivity to flea saliva, which can intensify symptoms.
Allergic Skin Disease
Allergies are a common reason pet owners bring their dogs and cats to our clinic. Pets with allergic skin disease may scratch constantly, chew their paws, develop inflamed skin, or experience recurring ear problems. Our team works closely with pet owners to determine whether environmental factors or food sensitivities may be contributing to these symptoms and guide the next steps for care.
Hot Spots (Acute Moist Dermatitis)
Hot spots can appear suddenly and progress rapidly if not evaluated by a professional. These painful, inflamed areas often become worse when pets lick or chew at the site. Our veterinary team at Paws & Claws regularly treats hot spots and emphasizes prompt evaluation to prevent further discomfort and complications.
Excessive Shedding, Bald Patches & Hair Loss
While some shedding is normal, noticeable thinning, bald areas, or uneven hair loss may signal an underlying condition. The vets at Paws & Claws evaluate these changes to identify potential causes such as hormonal imbalances, infections, or systemic health concerns.
Bacterial & Yeast Skin Infections
When the skin barrier becomes compromised, bacterial and yeast infections can quickly develop. These may present with strong odor, persistent redness, discharge, or thickened skin. Our veterinarians diagnose and manage these infections to restore skin health and prevent further irritation.
Symptoms Pet Owners Should Not Ignore
When it comes to your pet’s skin and coat, small changes can quickly become bigger problems if left unaddressed. Our team encourages pet owners to schedule an evaluation if they notice any of the following signs, as these can indicate a condition that requires medical attention.
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Persistent scratching, licking, chewing, or biting at the skin
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Red, inflamed, or warm areas
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Open sores, scabs, or raw patches
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Hair loss in patches or noticeable thinning of the coat
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Foul or unusual odors coming from the skin or ears
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Head shaking or repeated ear scratching
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Swelling, crusting, or oozing areas
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Sudden changes in your pet’s coat texture or appearance
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Darkened or thickened skin
These symptoms may appear gradually or seem to come on suddenly, but in either case, early veterinary evaluation can help prevent worsening discomfort and more complex complications. If your dog or cat shows any of these signs, we recommend scheduling an appointment as soon as possible to identify the cause and begin appropriate care.
How Skin Concerns Are Properly Evaluated
Because many skin conditions look alike on the surface, identifying the true cause requires a careful and methodical approach. A thorough evaluation helps ensure that the underlying issue is addressed – not just the visible symptoms.
During an appointment, your pet’s medical history, recent changes, environment, and overall health are taken into account alongside a hands-on examination. From there, your veterinary team may recommend additional diagnostic steps to pinpoint what’s causing the irritation or changes in the coat.
Common diagnostic methods may include:
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Skin scrapings to check for mites or microscopic parasites
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Cytology (microscopic examination of skin cells)
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Allergy evaluations to identify potential triggers
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Parasite screenings
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Blood work to assess for hormonal or systemic conditions
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Diet elimination trials conducted under veterinary guidance
This comprehensive process allows us to develop a targeted plan based on your pet’s specific needs, helping improve comfort while reducing the risk of recurrence.
Keeping Your Pet Comfortable Starts With the Right Care
Skin and coat problems can be frustrating for both pets and their owners, especially when discomfort lingers or keeps returning. While the signs may look similar on the surface, the cause behind them can vary widely, which is why professional evaluation plays such an important role in lasting relief and improved quality of life.
If your dog or cat is showing signs of persistent itching, redness, hair loss, or skin irritation, scheduling an appointment allows issues to be addressed early and thoughtfully. The team at Paws & Claws Veterinary Hospital is committed to helping pets feel more comfortable, protecting their long-term skin health, and guiding owners every step of the way.
Call our office today to schedule an appointment.
