Infection and Skin Care

Skin and ear infections often complicate allergy. Treating them is essential before allergy can be managed effectively.

Bacterial skin infection (pyoderma)

• First-line antibiotics (e.g. cephalexin) for 21–28 days.
• Continue for 7 days after lesions and cytology normalize.
• Full course compliance is important — do not stop early.

Yeast (Malassezia) dermatitis

• Medicated shampoos (ketoconazole) or sprays.
• Oral antifungals (ketoconazole, itraconazole) for 2–3 weeks if needed.
• Repeat cytology to confirm clearance.

Ear infections (otitis)

• Clean ears with a drying or antifungal ear cleaner.
• Topical drops (miconazole, terbinafine) daily for about 2 weeks.
• Culture is recommended if ear infections recur 3+ times per year or do not clear.

When to recheck

• 2–4 weeks after starting therapy.
• After diet trial (10–12 weeks) if one was done.
• Every 3–6 months once stable.

When to escalate

• Medications fail and itch remains high.
• New or recurring infections.
• Inability to comply with treatment.
• Referral to a dermatologist may be considered for refractory cases.

For your vet
Track the Itch reports include treatment dates and care status. Use them to correlate infection treatment with itch score trends.