Itching Scratching Hawaii Pet?

Itching and scratching cats and dogs?  What could it be?  

Pets in Kihei and elsewhere on Maui  (and other Hawaiian islands) are often itchy.  Fleas are a common cause (but ticks usually does not cause scratching).  But...it's not always fleas!

Many pets suffer from allergies to inhaled pollens, grasses, dusts and danders.  These come and go.  Sometimes allergies to wheat, corn, beef, dairy or colorants can be the cause.

Other times there is a microscopic infection in the skin.  These can range from bacteria,yeast, fungus or mites (mange).

(The mange mite, Demodex can be seen in this photo).

Every once in a while the cause is dry coat.

Since many of these are microscopic, your pet's Doctor will do a skin scrape test where a small sample is examined under the microscope to look for these creepy crawlie microbes.  Occasionally allergy tests for inhaled allergens, a food trial to rule out food allergy, or cultures may be necessary.  In rare cases a small biopsy may be needed for final diagnosis.

When the diagnosis is made, your pet will be prescribed a treatment plan.  This way, your pet and your family will stay comfortable and happy!