Does your dog keep licking their paws? Is your cat grooming so much that their fur is starting to thin? Or does that ear infection keep coming back?

It’s easy to put it down to “they always do that”. But constant itching shouldn’t be part of your pet’s everyday life. The itch is a clue, and finding the cause is how we help your pet feel comfortable again.

Signs your pet may be itchy

Itchy skin doesn’t always look like a rash. Your pet may be uncomfortable if you notice:

• Licking or chewing at their paws, legs or tummy
• Scratching or rubbing against furniture or carpet
• Head shaking, smelly ears or recurring ear infections
• Extra grooming in cats, leading to thinning fur or bald patches
• Scooting or licking around the bottom, which can also point to an anal gland problem

Common causes of itchy skin in pets

Environmental allergies

Pets can react to grass, pollen and dust mites, much like people with hay fever. Instead of sneezing, they tend to scratch, lick and chew. These environmental allergies, often called atopy, can be seasonal or last all year round.

Food allergies

Food allergies can develop even when your pet has eaten the same food for years. Switching to a premium food or changing brands won’t necessarily help, as it’s the ingredients that matter. We may recommend a carefully selected novel protein or hydrolysed diet and guide you through a food trial to find out whether food is playing a part.

Parasites, infections and other skin conditions

Fleas, mites, bacteria and yeast can all cause itching or make an existing skin problem worse. Less commonly, autoimmune skin conditions can cause sores, crusting and discomfort that need further investigation.

When home remedies aren’t enough

Many owners try a new shampoo or a change of food before booking a visit, only to find the scratching returns. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

A skin consultation helps us understand the pattern of your pet’s symptoms, examine their skin and ears, and recommend any tests needed. Whether it’s relieving the itch, treating an infection or managing an ongoing allergy, we’ll work with you on a practical plan that suits your pet.

Supporting healthy skin at home

Alongside treatment, the right home care can help keep your pet’s skin healthy and comfortable:

• Nourish from within: A balanced diet and, where appropriate, a veterinary omega 3 and omega 6 supplement can help support skin health.
• Keep it gentle: Use a pet specific, sensitive skin shampoo recommended for your pet.
• Help lock in moisture: A suitable pet oatmeal conditioner may help soothe and moisturise dry skin.
• Get bathing right: Washing too often can dry out or irritate the skin. Some conditions need regular medicated baths, so ask us what’s best for your pet. Cats generally don’t need routine bathing.

Book a skin consultation at Clyde Vet

If licking, scratching, ear trouble or scooting is becoming a regular habit, there’s no need to wait until your pet’s skin is red and sore. Book a skin consultation with our team and let’s get them back to more naps, playtime and cuddles, and a lot less scratching.

Book an Appointment Today