Skin Infections in Pets

If your dog or cat has itchy skin, red spots, or frequent ear or paw licking, they could be dealing with a skin infection. These issues are common in pets and can affect animals of all ages and breeds. They’re often a sign that something else—like allergies or parasites—is irritating your pet’s skin.

What Causes Skin Infections in Pets?

Pets naturally have bacteria and yeast on their skin, but problems start when the balance gets disrupted. When the skin barrier is weakened or irritated, these microorganisms can multiply and cause issues.

Common triggers include:

Allergies to food, fleas, or environmental factors like pollen or dust

Hormonal conditions like Cushing’s disease or thyroid imbalance

Moisture and poor hygiene, especially in skin folds or between the toes

Parasites, such as fleas, mites, or ticks

Scratches or wounds that damage the skin’s natural barrier

The Connection Between Allergies and Skin Issues

If your pet has allergies, you might notice frequent skin flare-ups or ear problems. Allergies can make the skin inflamed and itchy, which leads to scratching—and that opens the door to bacteria and yeast.

Over time, this itch-scratch-infection cycle can repeat itself unless the underlying cause is managed. Pets with allergies often have more sensitive skin, which may need regular support with moisturizing and gentle cleansing.

Why Preventative Skin Care Matters

Taking care of your pet’s skin regularly can help prevent minor imbalances from becoming bigger problems. With the right skin care routine, you can support the skin’s natural defenses and keep things like itchiness, redness, or odor in check.

Benefits of regular skin care:

Helps maintain the skin barrier and lock in moisture

Supports a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast on the skin

Reduces self-trauma from scratching and licking
Provides gentle support that can reduce relying on medications