INTEGUMENTARY

DERMATITIS, GENERAL

Species affected: Cats, Dogs.
Background: One of the most frequent problems seen, since the skin is a reflection of the health of the internal organs and immune system. Skin lesions are often secondary to other chronic diseases, with bowel disorders and allergies being leading causes.
Symptoms: Range from mild and seasonal to severe and constant, usually with pruritis as the primary complaint. Lesions may range from simple reddening of the skin to severe, chronic, open sores with thickening of the skin with much hair loss and odor, generally worsening as the animal ages. Seasonal problems of short duration often progress to longer time periods, or even to a year-round problem.
Diagnostics: The diagnosis of other concurrent chronic diseases requires a thorough workup.
Special Notes: Can be one of the most frustrating conditions to treat, as there are often many causes. There is often a correlation with a compromised immune system.
Principles for Supplementation: Treatment is aimed at restoring health to any concurrent condition as well as treating the inflammation in the skin.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—GENERAL DERMATITIS