Common Skin & Coat Problems for Pets in South Africa

Featuring a diverse climate ranging from humid coastal regions to dry interiors, South Africa exposes pets to unique health challenges, including persistent skin and coat issues such as intense itching, skin infections, dull coats, and hair loss. As pet parents, understanding these common dermatological issues is crucial to help relieve discomfort and ensure our pet’s well-being. In this blog, we’ll shed light on the common skin problems that pets in South Africa face so you can stay informed and proactive.

Let’s get started! 

Symptoms of Skin Problems in Pets

Healthy skin in cats and dogs should be free from scales, bumps and discolouration. Pets with skin problems tend to display the following symptoms:

• Scales & Flakes
• Redness
• Hairloss
• Discolouration
• Odour
• Itching
• Greasiness
• Scabbing
• Bumps
• Oozing sores

Common Skin & Coat Problems Faced by South African Pets

The following are some of the common skin and coat issues faced by pets in South Africa.

• Parasite Infestations

Both dogs and cats are generally highly susceptible to parasitic infestations. External parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites subject our pets to discomfort, intense itching, hair loss, inflammation, and secondary bacterial infections. However, most external parasites affecting your pet’s skin can be prevented and treated with the help of year-round spot-on and oral treatments. Some of the popular anti-parasitic treatments include NexGard, Bravecto and Frontline Plus.

• Skin Allergies

Pets can develop allergies to certain food ingredients, fleas, or environmental allergens such as pollens, dust, mould and grass, which may lead to various skin issues. When a pet comes in contact with allergens, its body releases a chemical called histamine, causing intense discomfort and severe itchiness. The best way to manage allergic reactions is by recognising allergens and avoiding them altogether. However, if your pet is experiencing an allergic reaction, you can use  treatments formulated to help relieve the symptoms . Some commonly used allergy support options for pets include Ecovet Eco-Allergy Liquid and Ecovet Colostrum Powder.

• Bacterial Infections

An overgrowth of normal skin bacteria can lead to bacterial infections in animals. Signs of bacterial infections include scaly red patches, pustules, red bumps and inflamed, moist skin. Pets can also develop bacterial infections when external bacteria make their way into their skin through scrapes and puncture wounds. These infections are usually treated with antibiotics. However, anti-bacterial shampoos like Benzoyl Peroxide Shampoo and Sebbarox Shampoo may help cleanse the skin and support recovery when used as directed.

• Yeast Infection

An overgrowth of yeast organisms on your pet’s skin can result in a yeast infection. This condition often causes intense itching, redness and a musky odour. Yeast infections are usually managed with the help of oral antifungal or topical formulas, depending on the severity.

• Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a serious problem for pets in South Africa due to the country’s high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Prolonged, intense sunlight exposure, particularly in sunny regions, frequently leads to sun-induced cancers in pets with light skin, thin fur, or white coats. Therefore, any discoloured region or non-healing wound on your pet’s skin calls for a veterinary checkup. If required, the vet may conduct a biopsy to diagnose and suggest radiation, chemotherapy or surgery as a treatment.

Bottom Line

Although most skin problems are not medical emergencies, it’s important to take symptoms seriously to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment. If your pet is scratching or licking excessively, or if you notice/witness scaling, redness, discolouration or bald patches, seek veterinary advice promptly. Most skin conditions are manageable if detected on time.

At BudgetPetSupplies, we carry a plethora of skin care products for pets at discounted prices. Check out our online store to get your hands on your preferred products and pet essentials.