Have you noticed your furry friend scratching a lot lately? If Fluffy or Fido scratches themselves every now and then, it’s probably not a big deal. After all, everyone gets itchy from to time. But if you’re dealing with constant or intense itching, it usually means there’s something else going on. A local Galloway, OH vet chats about itchy pets and shares some tips to help your furry friend feel more comfortable.
Discover the Reasons Behind Your Pet’s Itching
First off, you’ll want to get to the bottom of why your pet is itching. There are a bunch of reasons this may be the case. Here are a few to consider:
It’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with your Galloway, OH vet. Some problems, like using the wrong shampoo, are pretty easy to fix, but others, like bacterial infections, definitely need the attention of a veterinary professional. You might find that treatments can involve different kinds of medications, like steroids or antihistamines. Either way, it’s important to figure out what the underlying problem is, so you can make sure it’s being taken care of the right way.
Change Up Your Pet’s Shampoo
Some of our furry pals have really sensitive skin. Sometimes, using a shampoo that’s too harsh can really make some animals itchy. Your veterinarian in Galloway, OH might suggest trying something a bit milder, like an oatmeal shampoo. Make sure you’re rinsing really well, too!
Vacuum Regularly
Vacuuming isn’t the answer to everything, and it certainly won’t replace medication, if need be. That said, it can definitely be helpful. If you’re dealing with a flea infestation, your vacuum cleaner is going to be super important, as it can really help get those fleas and their unhatched eggs out of your carpet.
Vacuuming is great for pets with allergies as well, because it helps get rid of dust, pollen, and dander from your carpets.
Stay on Top of Your Pet’s Parasite Control
If your pet is scratching due to fleas or mites, you’ve got a bit of a challenge ahead of you.
Again, vacuuming really helps out in this situation. Try to make it a routine to vacuum every day for a bit. Once you’re finished, dump the canister into a plastic bag, seal it up, and head outside to toss it in the trash.
It’s a good idea to vacuum regularly, even if you don’t have to worry about fleas. We recommend deep cleaning at least once a week.
Give Your Pet a Good Wipe Down
Is Fido dealing with allergies? He’s going to gather up dust and pollen when he’s outside, especially on his paws and belly. Keep some pet wipes handy by the door and give your pup a quick wipe down before bringing him inside. Alternatively, you can grab some clean rags and fill up a spray bottle with water.
This will go smoother if you stick with it. You might want to make the offer a bit more appealing by showing Fido that he’ll score a tasty treat when he lets you wipe him down.
Keep an Eye on Pollen Levels
This one is super helpful for pets dealing with allergies. Make sure to watch the levels regularly, especially when pollen is at its highest, like in the spring and fall. One great option for this is to use a pollen tracker app. When the counts are high, it may be a good idea to keep your dog’s outdoor time to a minimum.
Consider Getting a Humidifier
Dry air can really take the moisture out of our pets’ skin, just like it does with ours. If your Galloway, OH vet has examined your pet and thinks dry skin is the issue, you might want to consider getting a humidifier.
Staying properly hydrated is important too. We recommend setting up some extra water stations or even considering getting a smart waterer. Hydration is super important for all pets, even if they’re not dealing with any itchiness!
Keep Fluffy Inside
This one probably leans more towards prevention, but it’s still relevant. Kitties that venture outside face a greater chance of catching fleas, ticks, or mites. They can also get bitten by insects more easily, too. For these and several other reasons, Fluffy would be a lot safer as an indoor cat!
Take Another Look at Your Pet’s Products, Especially the New Ones
If you’re not quite sure why your pet is itching, set up an appointment with your Galloway, OH animal doctor. And if you’ve recently switched up your pet’s food, litter, or shampoo, or maybe got them a new bed, definitely bring it up. It might be a good idea to consider going back to the old brand or trying something hypoallergenic instead.
Notice How Your Pet is Scratching
Sometimes, just watching your pet can really say a lot. If you notice your furry buddy pawing at their head or rubbing it against something, it might be a sign of an ear infection. You should share this info with your vet.
Stay on Top of Your Grooming Routine
Every pet has its own unique grooming requirements. Getting rid of dead fur and dander is important for pretty much every animal. If you don’t take care of that, your pet might end up feeling itchy, and they won’t be as shielded from the heat or cold either.
Provide a Healthy Diet
What your pet eats impacts their overall health, including their skin and fur. Every pet has its own unique needs, so it’s really important to ensure they’re being fed the right diet. Dogs and cats can benefit from foods that contain fatty acids, like Omegas 3 and 6 oils. These nutrients help keep their coats and skin nice and healthy. Check with your Galloway, OH vet for specific recommendations.
Stay on Top of Housecleaning
Wash your pet’s bedding often, and stick with a non-scented detergent. Take a look at the bedding label for any care instructions it might have. If possible, wash it with hot water, and then dry it well. Staying on top of dusting and vacuuming can also make a difference, and don’t forget to switch out those air filters too!
What Are Some Things I Should Avoid if My Pet is Itching?
It’s important not to give your pet any medication unless advised to do so by your Galloway, OH vet. That’s the main thing to keep in mind. Some medications are totally fine for our furry friends, but others can be risky for them. This is crucial, and we can’t stress that enough.
Taking Care of Your Property
Even if you’re staying on top of your pet’s preventative care, those pesky fleas, ticks, and mites can still sneak in, especially as it gets closer to when your furry friend needs their next dose. It might be a good idea to take a look at your property, especially if you’ve got fleas or ticks hanging around outside.
Here are a few helpful tips for this:
Keep Your Pet Mentally Healthy
Hey, did you know that when pets get bored or anxious, it can actually make them itchy? When cats are feeling stressed, they often end up over grooming or not grooming enough, which leads to their fur looking messy and unkempt. Provide plenty of toys and cozy beds for your pet, and don’t forget to spend some quality time together every day.
Schedule Regular Appointments with Your Galloway, OH Vet Clinic
When it comes to taking care of pets, a little bit of prevention can save you a lot of trouble down the road. Don’t forget to take your furry friend to the vet for regular check-ups!
Has your pet been scratching a lot lately? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us, your local Galloway, OH animal clinic whenever you need!
