Skin Infections treatment FAQs

At Sheehy Animal Hospital in Livonia, MI, we understand how stressful skin infections can be for both pets and their owners. Proper treatment is essential to relieve your pet’s discomfort and prevent the infection from worsening. To help you better understand how our veterinarians treat skin infections, we have answered some of the most common questions about our approach to care.

How Do Vets Diagnose Skin Infections?

Diagnosing a skin infection starts with a thorough physical examination of your pet’s skin. Our veterinarians may also perform diagnostic tests, like:

•             Skin Scraping: To check for parasites like mites.

•             Cytology: Examining skin cells under a microscope to identify bacteria or fungi.

•             Culture and Sensitivity Testing: To determine the specific type of infection and the most effective treatment.

•             Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected as the underlying cause.

These tests help us pinpoint the cause of the infection and create a targeted skin infection treatment plan.

What Treatments Are Available for Skin Infections?

At Sheehy Animal Hospital, we offer a range of treatments tailored to your pet’s specific needs, including:

•             Topical Medications: Medicated creams, ointments, or sprays to treat localized infections and soothe irritation.

•             Medicated Baths: Shampoos designed to eliminate bacteria, fungi, or parasites while calming inflamed skin.

•             Oral Medications: Antibiotics or antifungal medications to treat more severe or widespread infections.

•             Allergy Management: If allergies are contributing to the infection, we may recommend antihistamines, allergy medications, or dietary changes.

•             Parasite Control: Flea, tick, or mite treatments to address infestations that may be causing or worsening the infection.

How Long Does It Take for a Skin Infection to Heal?

The healing time depends on the severity of the infection and the underlying cause. Mild infections may improve within a week of starting treatment, while more severe cases could take several weeks. Following our veterinarians’ instructions and completing the full course of treatment is essential for a full recovery.

Can My Pet’s Skin Infection Come Back?

Recurring skin infections are often linked to underlying issues, such as allergies, parasites, or chronic conditions. Our veterinarians will work with you to address these root causes and develop a long-term management plan to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Call Our Veterinarians near You to Schedule Your Pet’s Skin Infection Treatment Today

If your pet is showing signs of a skin infection, do not wait to seek treatment. Contact Sheehy Animal Hospital in Livonia, MI, at (248) 615-7670 to schedule an appointment. Let us provide the expert care your pet needs to heal and feel its best.