Are you a pet parent and worried why your pet is scratching and licking its fur excessively?
A lot of pets scratch and lick their bodies; it is their normal behaviour, but when they do excessively, there may be a problem. It can be due to allergies, viral or fungal infections, or parasites. In short, take your pet’s itching seriously as it might cause them harm.
Let’s discuss some of the common allergies in pets.
Causes Of Scratching And Licking?
There can be several reasons behind scratching and licking, such as allergies, dry skin, parasites, fungal and bacterial infections.
Let’s discuss thoroughly.
Skin Allergy
It is the most common cause of skin disease in pets, which causes itchiness. It can be due to:
If your pet has any type of contact with allergens, Allergens can be found in saliva. When pets lick themselves, saliva sticks to their fur. Their allergens are also secreted by the skin gland, which is shed as dander.
Moreover, they can be found in the urine and blood of pets.
Symptoms
The allergic symptoms in pets are
- Rashes
- Scabs
- Pustules
- Ear infections
- Backside rubbing
- Scratching
Allergy can occur in both single and multiple areas of the body.
Parasites
The harm caused by a parasite is not a mild one. If not treated on time, it can even lead to the death of your pet. It can also damage their organs.
Some of the most common parasites in pets are :
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Mites
- Roundworms
- Hookworms
- Heartworms
They can cause compulsive scratching or licking, which becomes extremely uncomfortable for both the pet and the owner.
Symptoms
Symptoms of damage caused by parasites are extreme, such as
- Diarrhea
- Swollen belly
- Vomiting
- Blood in their faeces
- Weight loss
- Scooting
- Dull coat
Bacterial Infection
Bacteria are found almost everywhere. So, how is it not possible that they are not clinging to your pets?
Some of the bacteria do not cause any harm to the pets. But these bacteria are only a few! Others can cause serious threats to our four-legged friends.
Symptoms
Bacterial infections are also contagious. So, make sure whenever the following symptoms appear, immediately contact the vet.
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Pus-filled lesions.
- Abdominal pain.
- Redness and pain at wound sites,
- Ear pain
Dry skin
Sometimes dry skin can be a cause of itching in pets. If your pet is living in a low-humidity place, chances are higher that your pet will get dry skin and will tingle.
You will easily notice this factor!
Simple treatments like skin supplements, a healthy diet, and moisturising skin products can help you treat your buddy.
Home Treatments For Itchiness
Here are some remedies that you can provide to your furry friend if it has mild symptoms. Do take your pet to a vet in case of excessive tickling.
Fish Oil
Fish oil, also known as Omega-3 fatty acids, can also be used for the treatment of itchiness in dogs and cats.
Research has shown that they help to improve coat health and reduce inflammation in the body. They cause minimal side effects to the pet., For example, they may be susceptible to soft stool, gas, or vomiting sometimes.
Fish oil used when used with antihistamines, can increase the effect to treat itching or other skin issues. It is always advisable to use Fish Oil with the prescription of a doctors.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a prebiotic, which means it has a lot of benefits not only for skin but also for the digestion of your pet.
To help your pet, you will need apple cider vinegar with a half cup of green tea.
Here’s what you have to do:
- Take 1 cup of distilled water
- Take a half cup of apple cider vinegar
- Take a half cup of brewed green tea
Take all the ingredients and mix them in a bottle. Shake it until it’s combined well.
Give a nice bath to your pet, then apply this liquid to its skin. Massage gently onto the skin. After massaging, rinse and then pat dry.
Baking Soda
Baking soda just does not provide its benefits for bakery items. It can help you reduce the itchiness of your companion.
Simply follow these steps.
- Take a cup of baking soda.
- Take a cup of water
- Take a desirable quantity of Coconut Oil.
Mix them well and make a thick paste. It will serve as a great moisturizing lotion. Apply this mixture to the prone skin of your pet. Leave it there for 20 minutes and then wash it.
It will diminish the rashes, reduce the itching, and lessen the inflammation.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a lifesaver for so many things. When the topic comes to skin, aloe vera serves as a position of king. Its healing property can reduce redness and itching.
You can take naturally grown Aloe Vera from the house, or just simply buy it from the store. Apply it directly to the itchy skin. It will relieve your pet.
In the market, there is 100% organic Aloe Vera gel available, but you have to look out for one thing that is it should not contain alcohol, as it can burn your pet’s skin and can cause inflammation.
Conclusion
If your pet is constantly itching, just don’t ignore it. Take a break and look at what’s wrong with it. It is crucial to identify the cause, whether it’s allergies, parasites, or another skin condition, it can be treated.
Is your pet scratching and licking the fur excessively?
Now you should not be one of them.
You have read all of the symptoms and treatment your pet should not be overly scratching. Treat with the simple home remedies. And remember, if the symptoms stay persistent, immediately go to the doctor!
