What is the Treatment for Cat Eczema?

Skin conditions like acne and eczema are not just reserved for the human race. Cats and dogs can get them as well. Reasons for your pets having a skin flare-up are many, and usually can only be determined after a visit to your veterinarian.

  1. Significance

    • According to WebMD, cats are just as susceptible to skin conditions as humans are. Besides eczema, cats can also get acne, bacterial infections and yeast infections. All of these can be treated with a little direction from your veterinarian and the help of some antibiotics.

    Treatment

    • VetInfo.com tells us that there are many types of topical and oral medications for your cat's eczema or "cat dermatitis." They recommend that you seek treatment from your personal vet as soon as you notice any lesions in order to get the right prescription for your cat. Depending on the severity, treatment can involve steroids, an anti-inflammatory taken orally or topical prescription formulas.

    Considerations

    • Food allergies can also be to blame for the cat's eczema. When you visit your veterinarian, they can help to determine if this is a factor. Make sure to take a list of what your cat eats with you. Bringing any pertinent ingredient or packaging information to the office is also recommended. Your vet will help you to determine the proper diet for your cat if he thinks it can help in treatment of the eczema. Some vets will increase omega-3 intake in your pet's diet.

    Misconceptions

    • Eczema can be confused with mange, as they are the two main skin diseases that a cat can face. Mange is the result of a parasite and is contagious from cat to cat. Eczema can be a sign that something else is going on in the cat having to do with his intestines or his diet.

    Warning

    • Red bumps and swelling are indications of dermatitis on your cat's body. You should make sure to get treatment when you notice these lesions on your cat, since the condition could be worsened by licking and scratching on the animal's part. Skin conditions like eczema can cause your cat to lose his hair and, if untreated for too long, leaves a higher risk for infection.