Why is my dog or cat so itchy?
The most common causes of itchy skin in dogs and cats are fleas, allergies and dry skin. Less often, it's mites, a skin infection or ringworm. The signs and the time of year usually point to the cause.
|
Cause |
What you might notice |
|---|---|
|
Fleas |
Scratching or biting near the base of the tail, black specks (flea dirt) in the coat, bites on you |
|
Seasonal allergies (pollen) |
Worse in spring and summer, licking paws, red belly or armpits, itchy ears |
|
Year-round allergies (dust mites, food) |
Itching all year, ear infections, upset tummy with food allergies |
|
Dry skin |
Flaky skin or dandruff, worse in winter with central heating |
|
Mites (mange) |
Intense itching, crusty skin on the ears, elbows and ankles |
|
Skin infection or ringworm |
Red, sore or round bald patches, a smell, spots or scabs |
How do I check my dog or cat for fleas?
Part the fur at the base of the tail and along the back, and look for small black specks. Put the specks on damp white kitchen roll: if they turn reddish-brown, it's flea dirt. Treat every pet in the house, not just the itchy one, and wash their bedding on a hot wash.
What are the signs of allergies in dogs and cats?
Itching is the main sign, often with licking or chewing their paws. Other signs include red patches on the belly or armpits, repeat ear infections, hair loss, and in cats, over-grooming that leaves thin or bald patches. If the itching comes and goes with the seasons, pollen is the likely cause.
How can I soothe my dog's itchy skin at home?
Once you've ruled out fleas, these steps help soothe itchy skin and remove what's irritating it:
- Wash with a gentle shampoo: an oatmeal shampoo once every 1–2 weeks washes out pollen and soothes dry skin.
- Wipe after walks: wipe their paws and belly with a damp cloth or pet wipes to remove pollen and grass.
- Spray scratched areas: an antiseptic skin spray helps keep scratched skin clean while it heals.
- Add omega-3: a daily omega-3 oil such as salmon oil supports healthy skin and coat.
- Wash bedding weekly: on a hot wash, to remove fleas, pollen and dust mites.
How can I help my cat's itchy skin?
Check for fleas first, because they're the most common cause of itching in cats. Most dog shampoos aren't suitable for cats, so use products made for cats, or ones that say they're safe for them. Our Itchy Skin Relief Spray and Scottish Salmon Oil are both suitable for cats. If your cat is over-grooming, see your vet, as it can also be a sign of stress or pain.
When should you see a vet about itchy skin?
See your vet if the itching is constant or keeping your dog or cat awake, the skin is broken, bleeding or crusty, or there's hair loss. Go sooner if it's spreading, smells, or home care hasn't helped within 2 weeks. Mites, infections and some allergies need prescription treatment.
Related reading: How to clean a dog's ears · Fleas and ticks: the guide
