It’s Itchy Pet Awareness Month – to highlight this we’re sharing some tips from Emancipet’s Chief Medical Team on what to watch for when it comes to your dog or cat’s skin and ears.
If your pet is constantly scratching, licking, or shaking their head, it could be more than just a passing itch. Skin and ear issues are some of the most common problems veterinarians see, and they can cause serious discomfort for your dog or cat if not treated early.
What to Look Out For
Common signs of skin or ear problems include:
- Red, inflamed, or flaky skin
- Unusual odor from ears or coat
- Excessive scratching or chewing
- Head shaking or pawing at ears
- Hair loss, scabbing, or hot spots
These symptoms may be caused by allergies, irritants, infections—or parasites like fleas, mites, or ticks. Parasites not only cause itching and irritation, but they can also spread infections and skin diseases if left untreated.
How Emancipet Diagnoses and Treats These Issues
When you bring your pet to Emancipet for a Healthy Pet Services visit, our veterinary team will perform a physical exam to assess the condition of your pet’s skin and ears. Depending on the symptoms, we may:
- Inspect for fleas, ticks, and mites
- Examine the ears for signs of infection or wax buildup
- Look for signs of bacterial or yeast infections
- Recommend treatment at a full-service clinic if it is beyond our ability to treat
Once we identify the issue, we can usually provide treatment during the same visit. This may include:
- Oral medications for skin infections or ear problems
- Topical treatments such as shampoo, mousse, or medicated ear drops
- Flea and tick preventatives
- Recommendations for ongoing care and management at home
At Emancipet, we focus on making veterinary care accessible and affordable. If your pet is showing signs of skin or ear issues, visit us today!
Learn more about our Healthy Pet Services »
Emancipet offers Health Pet Services at all of our standard brick and mortar clinics in Central Texas, Houston and Philadelphia, and Mobile Clinic serving Austin, Texas. Our mobile clinics do not dispense antibiotics or topical skin and ear treatments, but can provide flea and tick preventives for your pet. Healthy Pet Services are available in a walk-in format, during our standard operating hours. Find your clinic here.
Meet our Chief Medical Team
Dr. Holly Putnam, DVM
Chief Medical Officer
Dr. Virginia Mulé, DVM
Senior Medical Director
Dr. Megan Anderson, DVM
Pflugerville Windermere Dr Lead Veterinarian
