Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)
FAD is one of the most common skin diseases we see in practice. A small percentage of cat and dogs are allergic to the flea saliva. One small bite can trigger off a large allergic reaction- just like people who are allergic to bees needing only one bee sting to cause major problems.
FAD presents with intense itching all over the body but especially the lower backline where fleas tend to congregate.
Obviously, if we can get rid of the flea problem, then the problem resolves itself.
Treatment
Affected animals usually require a combination of medications to settle the skin while flea control measures are put in place. The most common approach is:
- A few weeks of antibiotics to get rid of secondary bacterial infection (e.g. Cephalexin, Amoxyclav)
- Anti-inflammatories (e.g. Prednisolone) - tablets are better than long-acting injections as they can be stopped should complications occur
- Medicated washes (e.g. Pyohex or Malaseb) to hlep remove secondary bacterial invaders
See also...
Flea infestation videos
Introduction to fleas
Find us on Facebook