Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are localized areas of inflamed and infected skin that can occur in both dogs and cats. They often appear suddenly and can be quite painful and uncomfortable for pets.
Here’s a closer look at how hot spots manifest in dogs and cats:
Dogs:
- Appearance: Hot spots in dogs often present as red, moist, and inflamed areas of skin. The affected area might be oozing or have a yellowish discharge.
- Common Locations: They frequently occur on the legs, belly, or around the ears. They can develop quickly and spread rapidly.
- Causes: They are commonly caused by scratching, biting, or licking due to underlying issues such as allergies, insect bites, or infections. Wet or humid conditions can exacerbate them.
- Symptoms: Dogs with hot spots may exhibit signs of discomfort such as constant licking or chewing at the affected area, and they might show signs of pain or irritation. The area can also be warm to the touch.
Cats:
- Appearance: Hot spots in cats are similar to those in dogs, with red, inflamed, and moist patches of skin. However, they might be less obvious or pronounced.
- Common Locations: They can occur anywhere on the body but are often found on the back or sides. Cats are generally less prone to hot spots than dogs.
- Causes: Like dogs, hot spots in cats can result from itching and irritation due to allergies, parasites, or infections. They can also be related to stress or behavioral issues.
- Symptoms: Cats with hot spots might groom excessively or show signs of discomfort. They might also exhibit behavioral changes or signs of pain when the area is touched.
Treatment and Management:
- Cleaning: It’s important to keep the affected area clean and dry.
- Preventing Licking: Using an Elizabethan collar or similar can prevent pets from licking or scratching the hot spot.
- Addressing Underlying Causes: Identifying and treating the underlying cause of the hot spot, such as allergies or parasites, is crucial to prevent recurrence.
- Treatment: ROAR’s Hot Spot Spray is a quick and effective natural way to not only clear up the infection in the Hot Spot but to negate the itching within minutes of applying. ROAR’s Hot Spot Spray is perfectly safe for ingestion and will in fact help the gut biome if licked. Follow up with dosing at mealtimes with ROAR’s Biospore® Oral Probiotic Drops to lessen the chance of any re-infection.