🐾 6 solutions to your pet's skin problems

👉 Personally compiled by the editor・A must-read for Hong Kong dog and cat owners

Hong Kong's humid, hot weather, coupled with air pollution, makes skin problems particularly common among dogs and cats. Common symptoms include shedding, redness and swelling, itchy, scratching, dandruff, and even an unpleasant odor. 😥 Skin problems can arise from a variety of factors, including allergies, parasites, bacterial infections, and an unbalanced diet. Relying solely on blemish creams often only treats the symptoms, not the root cause. We've compiled six solutions for you to start improving your pet's skin health on a daily basis.

🧼 1. Regular cleaning and proper bathing

🚿 Cleaning is the first step, but you need to control the frequency

• Hong Kong's hot and humid weather is conducive to the growth of bacteria and fungi. Regular bathing can help reduce the risk of infection.
• It is recommended to use pet-specific hypoallergenic shampoo and avoid human shampoo or bath products (which can irritate the skin).
• The frequency of bathing varies depending on the type of dog or cat. Generally, once every 2-4 weeks is sufficient. Bathing too frequently will damage the skin's oil barrier.
• After washing, you must blow dry thoroughly, otherwise the humid environment will make skin problems worse.

Editor’s opinion: In the summer, I use a mild antibacterial shampoo, which significantly improves the itchiness of my dog’s skin.

🍖 2. Improve your diet and supplement nutrition

🥦 Nourishes skin from the inside out

• Provide a balanced diet and avoid eating only a single brand or low-quality food for a long time.
• Adding supplements containing Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids (fish oil, flaxseed oil) can help improve dry skin.
• Ensure sufficient protein to help hair regenerate.
• Some pets may be allergic to foods like chicken and beef, so be careful to observe their reactions after changing their food.

Editor's reminder: My cat used to shed fur all the time, but after adding fish oil powder, the fur quality and skin condition have improved a lot.

🐜 3. Prevent parasitic infections

🪳 Mites, fleas, and ticks are all big enemies

• Fleas and tick bites can cause itching in pets and can even cause dermatitis in severe cases.
• Ear mites can cause itching in the ears, sometimes to the point of bleeding.
• It is recommended to use anti-parasitic drops or oral medication every month for long-term protection.
• Clean dog beds, cat litters, and toys regularly to prevent insects from breeding.

Editor's note: Insects are particularly rampant in Hong Kong in summer, so pet owners should not be lazy and should continue to take protective measures.

🧴 4. Use dedicated skincare products

🌸 Soothe itching and help repair

• You can use pet-specific moisturizing spray or skin care cream to reduce dryness and itching.
• Some products contain oatmeal and aloe vera, which are particularly effective in soothing skin inflammation.
• If there are slight red spots on the skin, you can use the medicated shampoo recommended by the veterinarian.
• Never use human ointments as they may contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs and cats.

Editor's experience: I have tried using aloe vera moisturizing spray on my dog, and he scratched much less frequently.

🩺 5. Regular checkups and early medical attention

🧑⚕️ Skin problems cannot be taken lightly

• If your dog or cat scratches frequently and bleeds, has severe hair loss, or has pus on the skin, it's important to take them to the veterinarian.
• Your doctor will do a skin exam, such as a skin scraping, and blood tests to determine if it's an allergy, fungus, or bacterial infection.
• Some conditions require antibiotics and antifungal medications and cannot rely solely on home care.

Editor's note: The longer you delay treating skin problems, the longer the treatment time and cost will be.

🛋️ 6. Reduce stress and keep the environment dry

🧘♀️ Mental health is equally important

• High mental stress (such as moving house and separation anxiety) can reduce immunity and make skin more prone to problems.
• Owners should provide more companionship and maintain a regular life to reduce their pets' anxiety.
• The house should be kept ventilated and dry to avoid the growth of moisture and mold.
• Wash sheets and carpets regularly to keep them clean.

Editor’s comment: In the past, the house was too humid in the summer, and my dog’s skin was always red and swollen. Later, I added a dehumidifier, and the situation has improved a lot.

📌 Editor's Summary

Skin problems with your pet are common but shouldn't be ignored. Solutions include proper cleaning, a balanced diet, insect repellent, specialized skincare products, prompt medical attention, and managing your pet's psychological environment . It's important to address these issues comprehensively, not just focusing on treating blemishes, as this will only cause the problem to recur. Remember: healthy skin means your pet will have smooth, healthy fur and a healthy spirit, allowing them to enjoy a happy life with you longer!