Yeast Infection in Dogs
Introduction
If your dog has started scratching at his skin or is drooling more than usual, there is a chance that a yeast infection is to blame. Yeast infection in dogs is quite a common infection and one that will need formal diagnosis and treatment from your vet. In the meantime, while you are waiting for your appointment to come around, you can read more about yeast infections in dogs, how they can occur and the treatment available.
What is a Yeast Infection in Dogs?
Yeast is a naturally occurring fungus that can live inside the gut of your dog or on the skin without causing any problems. However, several triggers can lead to over-population of this yeast and this can lead to infection. You might not know that your dog has a yeast infection at first. It’s only when the body tries to return the yeast population to a normal level that symptoms can start to flare up.
What Are the Symptoms of a Yeast Infection?
Fortunately, some symptoms will be evident once a yeast infection is present and which will help your vet to diagnose the problem. If you have noticed one or more of these symptoms in your pet, get onto your vet as soon as possible to make an appointment.
Scratching
One of the first signs of a yeast infection is scratching. Your dog may also start chewing or biting at his skin or shaking his head to relieve discomfort. Yeast infections commonly appear in moist areas, creating the perfect breeding ground for the bacteria. The most common areas for yeast infection in dogs to develop is in the ears and between the toes.
Hair Loss
Another symptom of yeast infection is the loss of hair. Your dog may lose hair in the patches where he is scratching to alleviate the itch, such as around his legs, neck, and face.
Changes in Skin Color
You may also notice that your dog’s skin is changing color. Keep an eye out for any pink or red areas of the skin. There may also be some swelling and these areas may also be slightly warmer to the touch than other areas of the skin. Darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation) is also common.
Changes in Odor
Changes in odor are also common when your dog has a yeast infection.
Excessive Licking
Dogs will often lick themselves to cope with itchiness caused by a yeast infection. Look out for other signs that your dog is trying to relieve an itch such as rubbing against furniture or scooting along the floor.
How is a Yeast Infection Diagnosed?
To determine whether the symptoms your dog is experiencing are down to a yeast infection, your vet will carry out a series of tests on your dog’s skin. This might involve taking a skin scrape or plucking a few hairs. Don’t worry, these procedures won’t hurt your dog and are very common and effective methods of detecting yeast infections in dogs. These samples will then be carefully analyzed under a microscope. If a yeast infection or another bacterial infection is diagnosed, the vet will prescribe the most suitable treatment.
Treating a Yeast Infection in Dogs
The first treatment usually prescribed by your vet will be a topical treatment, such as an anti-fungal shampoo. Depending on how severe the infection is, you might need to apply this treatment a few times a week or a few times a day. The chemicals in the medications will get to work instantly, killing the yeast and improving your dog’s skin. In fact, you should start to notice a marked improvement within a week. For your dog, the itchiness will start to ease and his skin will start to look much better. If your dog has a yeast infection in the ear, your vet will provide you with antifungal ear drops to treat the infection.
If the topical treatment is not successful at beating the yeast infection, the best course of action is an oral treatment. Your vet may also provide you with anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling.
Cost to Treat: $50 to $100
Get the Best Care For Your Dog
If you suspect that your dog is suffering from a yeast infection, make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis. Your vet will provide tailored treatment that will ensure your dog is back to his normal self as quickly as possible. Treatment for infections can be costly. Ensure your dog gets the best care possible by taking out a pet insurance plan with PetInsuranceQuotes.com. We’ve helped countless owners to get the best quality care for their pet without worrying about costs.
Related Content
Compare Plans and Prices from the Top Companies
