Environmental factors also play a significant role in the development of these lesions. Any minor injury, abrasion, or even excessive licking from a surgical incision can evolve into a hot spot if the healing process is disturbed by continued licking.
What Causes Hot Spots In Dogs And Cats
The initial trigger is often allergic dermatitis, which can stem from environmental allergens like pollen and dust mites, or from food sensitivities. The damaged skin becomes infected, and the infection creates more itch and pain, prompting even more scratching.
The constant moisture and trauma break the skin barrier, creating the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast that normally live on the surface to overgrow and cause infection. Poor grooming practices, whether due to the animal's inability to reach certain areas or neglect from an owner, allow loose hair and debris to accumulate, further irritating the skin and setting the stage for a hot spot to form.
What Causes Hot Spots In Dogs And Cats
These acute, moist dermatitis lesions develop rapidly when a pet licks, chews, or scratches an area of skin relentlessly. These infections are not just a result of the hot spot but also a perpetuating factor that makes the condition worse.
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