Pyoderma in cats: treatment, symptoms, causes

Cats are known for their cleanliness. They can lick their fur endlessly, putting it in order. Therefore, it is especially difficult to observe that a beloved pet suffers from skin irritations and pustules that are classified as pyoderma among cats.

Pyoderma is characterized by a bacterial developmental pathway with characteristic small pustular formations on the skin. In some cases, hair loss is possible. With timely treatment, the prognosis for recovery is favorable.

The reasons for the development of the disease

The penetration of pathogenic microorganisms into the epidermis is possible for the following reasons:

• the development of dermatitis associated with flea bites;
• improper care of long-haired cats;
• the use of the same instrumentation for the processing of wool in many animals;
• long-term non-healing wound surface (scratch, ulcer, etc.);
• pets have a high risk of developing pyoderma when they suffer from ringworm (trichophytosis). In addition, hereditary pathological disorders in the work of the endocrine gland are observed. In this case, the greatest danger is the development of hypothyroidism;
• a negative effect on the pet's body is exerted by insufficient intake of Tocopherol and Carotene, therefore, with an unbalanced diet, the animal may develop factors that provoke pyoderma.

Allergies of various types and demodecosis (damage to the skin by mites of the Demodex species) have a negative effect on the resistance of the cat's body.

There is an opinion of scientists that these mites are the only serious reason for the development of pyoderma not only among animals, but also all mammals, including humans. However, there are also opponents of this theory.

The main symptoms of pyoderma

The most common symptoms of the disease are:

• sudden onset of baldness, which is often preceded by physical damage to the skin of the cat;
• excruciating itching, forcing the animal to itch almost continuously;
• the appearance on the affected area of ​​the skin of small, towering scales;
• with severe development of pyoderma, the skin may be covered with a hard scab;
• in the case when the animal is not treated, the spread of a pustular rash is observed. The most favorite places for its localization are the abdomen, muzzle and other places with delicate skin;
• the pet behaves restlessly, may be aggressive, or, conversely, be passive most of the time.

With the development of deep pyoderma, the infectious process can spread to the deep layers of the epidermis, and in the case of aggravated symptoms, sepsis may develop as a result of the death of the animal.

Diagnostics

It is important to consider that it is very difficult to diagnose pyoderma on the basis of a visual examination. Therefore, a bacteriological and microscopic scraping is prescribed from the affected area of ​​the skin.

If deep pyoderma is suspected, a biopsy is additionally prescribed with further examination of the material. When confirming the diagnosis, the veterinarian prescribes therapeutic measures, depending on the condition of the cat.

Treatment of pyoderma in cats

If a disease is detected, the entire lesion should be cut off and treated with antiseptic preparations (brilliant green, concentrated solution of potassium permanganate). Further, the doctor will prescribe medications for the treatment of a pet, which have a complex effect on the infectious process.

The most commonly prescribed drugs are:

• for external treatment of the skin, it is recommended to use anti-inflammatory gels, tinctures and streptocid ointment. It is effective to carry out treatment with drugs such as Cefa-kure and Maxidin;

• based on the severity of symptoms, antibiotics can be prescribed (Tylozolin, Lincomycin hydrochloride, Clindomycin, Cefalexin, Erythromycin);
• in addition, gamma globulins, staphylococcal toxoid and homeopathic immunomodulators (Evinton, Neoferon, Bactoneotim) are prescribed;
• for better healing of the skin, the use of Gamavit and Katazol is recommended;
• good efficiency is observed when using external herbal remedies, especially those where chamomile, celandine, calendula, sage, eucalyptus, etc. are present;

• of great importance belongs to preventive measures to prevent the development of various allergies, since they may well lead to the appearance of pyoderma. To exclude such a reaction, it is necessary, together with the doctor, to select the means for caring for the cat. In addition, it is recommended to exclude direct contact of the animal with household chemicals, etc.

It must be remembered that the treatment of a pet can be quite lengthy, so the owner needs patience and attentiveness to the pet.

It is imperative to inspect the animal for scratches and damage to the skin, especially during the mating season (in March), since at this time the greatest number of injuries to the skin is noted, which can lead to the development of purulent abscesses. Therefore, the animal should be examined within 2 weeks after the end of this period. However, it should be remembered that for any negative symptoms that appear on the cat's skin, you must contact the veterinary clinic, where the doctor will prescribe the appropriate treatment.