Hot Spots
Apr 22, 2024 ComfortAtHomePetServices Health & Wellness
Hot spots are the most common
dermatological condition in pets and most pet parents have faced them in
varying degrees. Hot spots, also called
acute moist dermatitis, are warm, red, sometimes oozing, areas of skin inflammation
and hair loss.
Hot spots can be caused
by many different types of conditions, such as,
●
Water trapped in
between the coat and skin, not allowing the skin to dry properly, this type of
trigger is most common in the summer months when pets are swimming in pools,
lakes or playing in hoses.
●
Large jowled dogs also run the risk of getting water
trapped from water running onto their chest when they're drinking. Golden
Retrievers, Newfoundlanders, Rottweilers are most susceptible
●
Parasite bites or infestations
●
Dirty or matted coat. Similar to water getting trapped,
a matted coat doesn't allow the skin to properly dry or the oils to move
throughout the coat. This can start as a clogged pore and lead to a bacterial
infection.
●
Contact dermatitis from something that pet has come into
physical contact with such as chemicals from carpet cleaners, grass fertilizers
or cleaning products.
Knowing the reason for
the hot spot will aid in eliminating the triggers causing the hot spots to occur
in your pet. Always remember to dry a
pet thoroughly after being in water. This is especially true for thick or
double coated dogs. Address all flea, tick and parasite issues with collars,
baths or homeopathic means, such as vinegar. For more information on fleas and
ticks, visit our blog post Fleas and Ticks. Keep all pets brushed and
free of coat matting. Deshedding tools can help by eliminating loose undercoat
that may be trapping moisture or oils under the skin. Food allergens and contact dermatitis can be
harder to pinpoint as it's usually a process of elimination to find the
trigger.
Once a hot spot has
formed, it's important to not only begin the healing process right away but to
help soothe the pet and keep them from licking, scratching or biting at it.
Hot spots can become very inflamed and itchy and half the battle may be keeping
your pet from bothering it while it heals.
The first step is to
trim away the hair from the area if possible with scissors or clippers. The
hotpot may be painful and itchy, so be extra careful not to cut your pet if
they are jumping or pulling away. If needed, enlist the help of a trusted
groomer.
Secondly, clean the
area with a mild antiseptic wash, antibacterial soap or medicated wipes or
solutions. Gently pat the area dry. Refrain from rubbing the area, as this may
irritate the hot spot and cause it to itch even more. Always pat dry!
Next, soothe the
hot spot to provide relief to your pets, so they won't bother the hot spot while
it's trying to heal. Topical or veterinarian prescribed oral steroids or
antibiotics can be used to help with itching, inflammation and healing. A cold
compress can also help with inflammation and soothing.
Lastly, treat the hot spot and watch for any signs of infection. Treat the wound with a hot spot treatment or hydrocortisone spray or cream. Always watch a pet carefully to make sure they aren't licking the treatment or ointment. A veterinarian may prescribe a topical or oral antibiotic for any signs of infection and to keep infection from setting into an open wound. Hot spots can take days to weeks to fully heal depending on the size, location and severity of the hot spot. Maintain treatment of the hot spot until the wound is healed.
Apple cider vinegar can be added to a pet's food or water to to help internally. Twice daily, add ¼ - ½ teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to a pet's food or water.
The wound can also be treated with diaper rash cream, but
check with your veterinarian before using it on your dog. If you get the all
clear, diaper rash cream will settle inflammation and help keep the area dry by
allowing the bacteria to dry out and heal the hot spot. Always use sparingly, as
a little bit goes a long way.
The risk of hot spots
can be lowered with proper grooming and drying, but they can't always be
avoided. If a hot spot does occur, attempt to find the trigger and remove it,
and begin treatment. If you notice the wound is becoming infected or growing,
schedule a trip with your veterinarian to help in treatment.
