If your dog or cat has ever itched, licked, or scratched a certain spot on their skin so much that it became inflamed and possibly infected, your pet has experienced a hot spot. The broad definition of a hot spot is a sore on the skin that is so itchy your pet cannot leave it alone. In this blog, we will explore some of the specific causes of hot spots and how to treat them.
A hot spot is a skin infection that irritates the skin, causing dogs and cats to scratch, lick, or itch the affected area. Anything that causes an initial itch can be the culprit, including allergies, bites, or even splinters. Vets can prescribe short-acting corticosteroids, antihistamines, or antibiotics to help relieve the itch, which allows the hot spot to heal.
What is a Hot Spot?
Before learning how to treat a hot spot for dogs or cats, we should first ask, “What is a hot spot?” A hot spot, also known as acute moist dermatitis or pyotraumatic dermatitis, is an itchy skin infection. They appear when a dog or cat’s wound or inflammation becomes moist.
They can be painful for your pet, causing them to lick, scratch, or bite their skin, which can spread the infection and slow the healing process. Because hot spots hurt your furry friend, it’s important to know the causes to avoid them in the first place.
What Causes Hot Spots?
So what causes hot spots on pets? A variety of factors such as allergies, insect bites, splinters, a new shampoo, or anything that causes an initial itch on the skin can be the culprit behind a hot spot. Flea allergy dermatitis is a common cause of hot spots for both cats and dogs—just one flea bite can cause a raging hot spot.
Regardless of the initial cause, the bottom line is that hot spots are extremely distressing for our furry friends. And once a dog or cat starts scratching or licking at the area, the hot spot can quickly worsen. Some pets even chew or tear at the irritated area, creating hair loss, a weeping open wound, or a serious infection.
Hot Spot Symptoms
Hot spots typically look like large, moist scabs. They appear inflamed and can even bleed. Other symptoms of a hot spot are:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Hair loss
- Excessive itching or licking
Hot spots can appear anywhere on a pet’s body, but they’re more commonly found on the head, hips, or legs.
It’s important to note that some hot spots are more than just an itchy spot or skin infection, so it’s best to have a vet examine your pet to make sure the area isn’t a symptom of a fungal disease or even cancer. All too often pet owners attempt to diagnose and home-medicate a hot spot that turns out to be something much worse, which ultimately delays a diagnosis and treatment.
Treating Hot Spots
Once your vet has ruled out other diseases and has confirmed that your pet has a festering hot spot, they can break your pet’s viscous licking and scratching cycle by alleviating the itch and treating the infection. There are several options for treating hot spots, including:
- Short-acting corticosteroids
- Antihistamines
- Antibiotics
- Elizabethan collar
Once the itch dies down and your pet stops scratching and licking, the hot spot will have the chance to heal.
Find your nearest PetWellClinic® location!
Hot spots are skin infections that cause pets to excessively scratch, lick, or itch the inflamed area. An initial itch can become a hot spot, especially since aggressive contact with any area on a dog or cat can cause an infection. Vets can prescribe medication to relieve the itch so that the hot spot has time to heal without irritation. Bring your pet to a vet if you notice any symptoms of a hot spot.
The veterinarians at PetWellClinic® are experienced in diagnosing and treating hot spots. Bring your pet in at the first sign of a potential hot spot so your pet gets relief quickly. Our walk-in clinics are dedicated to helping dog and cat owners treat skin conditions like hot spots and minor injuries. We also provide preventative care for parasites such as ticks, fleas, and heartworms.
PetWellClinic® offers treatment for hot spots as well as preventative care against various diseases and sicknesses. We also provide convenient dog and cat wellness packages with your pet’s health future in mind. We treat minor illnesses such as allergies and infections as well as chronic conditions such as diabetes and arthritis. Walk in today for all your pet’s health needs!
PetWellClinic® is dedicated to being here for pet owners. Our hours of operation extend into the evenings and weekends, and our clinic environment is built with your pet’s comfort in mind. Talk to your PetWellClinic® veterinarian to learn more about the services we provide.
PetWellClinic® has locations and services built with convenience in mind. Stop by with your pet anytime! No appointment necessary.