Understanding the Different Types of Skin Infections in Pets
- posted: Jun. 09, 2025
When your pet starts itching more than usual, licking one spot too often, or developing scabs or red patches, it’s time to take a closer look. Skin infections in pets are more common than most people realize. At Sheehy Animal Hospital, your veterinarian in Livonia, MI, we see a range of skin issues and getting the right diagnosis might make all the difference in clearing things up.
Bacterial Skin Infections
One of the most common skin problems in pets is a bacterial infection, often called pyoderma. It can show up as red bumps, crusty sores, or areas of hair loss. You may also notice a strong odor. These infections usually start when something damages the skin—scratching from allergies, bug bites, or even a minor injury—and bacteria takes advantage.
Treatment often includes antibiotics, medicated shampoos, and stopping the underlying cause. If your pet keeps getting them, it may be linked to something else going on, like allergies or hormonal imbalances.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections, like ringworm, aren’t actually caused by worms. They’re caused by a fungus that lives on the skin and fur. These infections are contagious, both to other animals and to people, so quick action is important. You might see circular bald spots, scaly skin, or broken hairs.
Yeast Infections
Yeast likes to grow in warm, moist spots—ears, paws, skin folds. When it gets out of control, pets get itchy, greasy skin with a sour smell. Yeast infections can be chronic if not treated thoroughly. They often appear in pets with allergies or those prone to skin irritation.
Treatment includes antifungal shampoos or wipes, and sometimes oral medication. Keeping the skin dry and clean helps prevent future flare-ups.
Parasitic Infections
Mites and fleas are often behind skin issues that look like infections. Mange, caused by mites, leads to hair loss, thickened skin, and intense itching. Flea allergy dermatitis can cause raw, inflamed patches even from just one bite.
To fix the problem, we treat the parasites directly—usually with monthly preventatives—and care for the damaged skin.
Get Pet Skin Infections Treatment from a Veterinarian Near You
Skin infections can go from mild to serious if they’re ignored. Some can spread. Others may be signs of deeper health problems. If your pet is scratching constantly, has red or flaky skin, or seems uncomfortable, it may be time to bring them in for help from our veterinary team.
At Sheehy Animal Hospital, your veterinarian in Livonia, MI, we’ll look beyond the surface and find the real cause. That way, your pet gets relief—not just a temporary fix. Call us at (248) 615-7670 for pet skin infections treatment from a veterinarian near you.
- posted: Jun. 09, 2025
When your pet starts itching more than usual, licking one spot too often, or developing scabs or red patches, it’s time to take a closer look. Skin infections in pets are more common than most people realize. At Sheehy Animal Hospital, your veterinarian in Livonia, MI, we see a range of skin issues and getting the right diagnosis might make all the difference in clearing things up.
Bacterial Skin Infections
One of the most common skin problems in pets is a bacterial infection, often called pyoderma. It can show up as red bumps, crusty sores, or areas of hair loss. You may also notice a strong odor. These infections usually start when something damages the skin—scratching from allergies, bug bites, or even a minor injury—and bacteria takes advantage.
Treatment often includes antibiotics, medicated shampoos, and stopping the underlying cause. If your pet keeps getting them, it may be linked to something else going on, like allergies or hormonal imbalances.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections, like ringworm, aren’t actually caused by worms. They’re caused by a fungus that lives on the skin and fur. These infections are contagious, both to other animals and to people, so quick action is important. You might see circular bald spots, scaly skin, or broken hairs.
Yeast Infections
Yeast likes to grow in warm, moist spots—ears, paws, skin folds. When it gets out of control, pets get itchy, greasy skin with a sour smell. Yeast infections can be chronic if not treated thoroughly. They often appear in pets with allergies or those prone to skin irritation.
Treatment includes antifungal shampoos or wipes, and sometimes oral medication. Keeping the skin dry and clean helps prevent future flare-ups.
Parasitic Infections
Mites and fleas are often behind skin issues that look like infections. Mange, caused by mites, leads to hair loss, thickened skin, and intense itching. Flea allergy dermatitis can cause raw, inflamed patches even from just one bite.
To fix the problem, we treat the parasites directly—usually with monthly preventatives—and care for the damaged skin.
Get Pet Skin Infections Treatment from a Veterinarian Near You
Skin infections can go from mild to serious if they’re ignored. Some can spread. Others may be signs of deeper health problems. If your pet is scratching constantly, has red or flaky skin, or seems uncomfortable, it may be time to bring them in for help from our veterinary team.
At Sheehy Animal Hospital, your veterinarian in Livonia, MI, we’ll look beyond the surface and find the real cause. That way, your pet gets relief—not just a temporary fix. Call us at (248) 615-7670 for pet skin infections treatment from a veterinarian near you.
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Sheehy Animal Hospital
18790 Middlebelt Rd
Livonia, MI 48152