Condition4 connections · 1 source
Hot Spots
Acute superficial bacterial skin infection (pyotraumatic dermatitis) from self-licking, chewing, or scratching.
Key Facts
- Created by the pet in as little as 10 minutes of chewing
- More common in hot, humid weather and dogs with dense undercoats
- Staphylococcus intermedius is most common bacterial cause
- Location clue: hip = fleas/arthritis; near ear = ear infection/allergy
- Treatment: clip hair, clean, topical + possibly systemic antibiotics
- About 30% of suspected hot spots are actually deeper infections
- Good flea control is foundation of itch prevention