Yeast infection in dogs is an inflammatory skin condition. It is natural to spot yeast infection in dog’s skin. But when there is an overgrowth of Malassezia pachydermatis, the yeast species, it becomes a problem. This is commonly found in pets that live in a warm and humid environment. They can affect the parts like skin folds, armpits, between paws and ears of your dog.
Sometimes, yeast attacks could be due to allergies, medications, or a weak immune system. The growth of this microorganism could cause discomfort and severe infections to your dog. There are many symptoms to check for yeast infection in dogs. Your dog might lose a lot of hair and you can spot sticky yellow/green discharge from the skin.
There is also a particular odor to the yeast infection in dogs. If you can spot redness with an excess smell, it can be due to the infection. Also, the dog affected by yeast infection would try to manage the itching sensation by rubbing against the wall or by licking at the affected area. If there are more than one of the symptoms mentioned, rush to the veterinarian.
When you are at the vet clinic, he/she examines your dog by running a few skin tests. There are chances of using common techniques like microscope diagnosis of hair strands and skin scrapes. This helps the vet to understand better about the growth.
Many factors can lead to the growth of yeast infections in dogs’ skin. Irrespective of age, breed and sex, they could experience infection at least once. A few common factors for yeast infection in dogs are:
- Exposure to hot and poorly sanitized areas
- Change in weather
- Allergies to mites, parasites, or fleas
- Food allergies
- Skin irritation
- Exposure to medication
- Skin folds
- Improper diet
Treating yeast infection in your furry friend requires a proper diagnosis. You need to find out the cause to stop it from recurring. Talk to your vet and find out the severity of the infection first.
Topical medications extensively help to control the infection. Ointments and skin creams are suggested to help with spots. You will be provided with medicated anti-fungal shampoos for keeping your dog’s skin clean. It should help him with skin improvement. Be aware of the proper timeline and follow the treatment until your vet asks you to discontinue.
There is also an oral treatment for yeast infections. When the puppy does not positively respond to the medications, vet prefers to begin this treatment. It solely depends on your dog’s health condition though. The dog will be prescribed to take antifungal or anti-yeast medicines for treating the condition. Anti-inflammatory and allergy medications could be prescribed too.
Apart from external care, make sure to provide healthy and balanced meals to your dog.
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