Do dogs and cats in Charlotte get fleas?

While ticks are a more seasonal concern, fleas are a year-round issue in climates like Charlotte, and they become especially problematic during heatwaves. Fleas live in the environment and will only land on an animal to feed, so if you see one flea on your pet, chances are there are many more nearby. Routine flea and tick prevention is a key component of preventive health for cats and dogs in Charlotte. Learn More

Are dog parks common in Charlotte?

There are many dog parks all over Charlotte with off-leash areas for your dog to explore and interact with other dogs. That being said, make sure your dog is leash-trained and vaccinated before bringing him or her to public spaces. Keep your dog in check and within sight at all times, particularly if they are off-leash. Don’t forget to pick up after your pet.

How much does it cost to spay or neuter a cat in Charlotte?

The cost of a spay or neuter procedure for a cat in Charlotte will vary depending on several factors, including whether or not you have a wellness plan, the age and general health of the animal in question, and more. Spaying and neutering helps keep the cat population under control, and both procedures have a variety of health benefits for cats as well. Learn More

How can I pay for veterinary treatment in Charlotte?

Most Charlotte residents pay for their veterinary care using insurance or out of pocket. Your Charlotte vet wants to help your pet get the care they need to achieve a healthier smile. If you do not have pet insurance and cannot afford to pay for the care your pet needs, ask your vet about financing options or a payment plan.

How do I find a good vet in Charlotte?

To find a good veterinarian in Charlotte, there are a few things you can look for during your search: Positive reviews online A good 'bed-side manner' that makes you feel comfortable Willingness to take time to educate you on your pet's health in addition to providing treatment Easy process for booking appointments that strives to coordinate with your schedule Clear infection control protocols for your safety A range of services, including the specific types of pet care you are looking for

Is Parvovirus common in Charlotte?

Canine parvovirus, also called “parvo”, is a deadly disease that is spread via stool from one dog to another. Sadly, Parvo is very common in Charlotte. It spreads easily with rain and can stay in the soil up to eight years. For these reasons, it is essential to get your dog vaccinated. Learn More

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Dermatology Care for Pets (Dogs, Cats)

What could be causing my cat's itchy skin?

Itching of the skin, either in a specific spot or more generalized on the body, may be caused by an allergy. This means your pet's immune system is overreacting or is hypersensitive to a particular substance. A substance that triggers an allergic reaction is called an allergen.

Different types of allergens cause different reactions. Some allergens cause a reaction upon contact, while others are parasites that live in or on the cat's body Still others are ingested or inhaled.

Skin allergies can be caused by contact allergies (when the allergen comes into direct contact with the cat's body); fleas (if your cat is allergic to antigens or proteins in flea saliva, a single bite could lead to intense itching and scratching), and food allergies (which are caused by an immune reaction to an ingredient or additive in their food.

Common food allergies for cats include chicken, turkey, and beef. Some vegetable proteins found in commercially produced cat foods may be problematic for some cats including corn and wheat, and for other cats, food additives and preservatives can lead to an allergic response. Food allergies can lead to itchy skin, digestive disorders, and respiratory distress.

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Why does my dog keep scratching their skin?

Most dogs will inevitably encounter itching at some point. Itchy skin conditions can lead to relentless scratching and make your dog miserable. While these skin conditions can be annoying for your pet they aren't usually serious. That said, some conditions do need veterinary care and will require treatment to prevent them from becoming more severe.

While there are countless reasons why your dog may start to scratch, bite or lick at their fur, some of the more common causes of itchy skin in dogs that we see include parasitic bites, environmental dermatitis (a skin irritation that develops due to contact with certain substances such as grass, dirt and plants), nutritional dermatitis (having an allergic reaction to something in their food), skin allergies and hives.
How is intradermal skin testing done?

Intradermal skin testing helps determine what environmental allergies (weeds, trees, molds, fleas, etc.) your pet may be allergic to. (Please note: no there is no reliable way to test for food allergies.) During the test, a series of 60 different allergens are injected under the subcutaneous layer of the skin. If there is a reaction, a welt/hive will develop. The dermatologist will grade the reaction on a scale of 1 to 4, with 4 being the highest.

Allergy testing usually takes about an hour. Because the series of injections can be uncomfortable, your pet will be given a light sedative to help ease any stress and keep them from moving during the test. This is done with an injection and can be reversed before your pet leaves the clinic.

After a veterinary dermatologist has performed the skin testing, an allergy serum will be formulated based on the results. Each serum is developed based on that individual patient’s needs. No two patients will have an identical allergy serum.
What are common symptoms of skin infections in cats?
A wide variety of infections can cause your cat's skin to become itchy, inflamed or swollen. While we're unable to spot microbial infections with the naked eye, related symptoms such as these can also indicate skin infections in cats:
- Green, yellow or chunky discharge from your cat's skin
- Strong smells surrounding the skin
- Miliary dermatitis (small, grainy bumps)
- Pustules (small, bumps filled with fluid)
- Epidermal collarettes (flaky skin surrounding an area of red or dark skin)
That said, infected skin may not look abnormal at first glance. One or two of the signs listed above coupled with itchiness may be the only symptoms of a skin infection that you notice.

Your veterinarian may need to test a sample of the skin cells to learn whether the cells contain yeast or bacteria. If they cannot find a clear answer, a biopsy may be required to make a diagnosis.
I discovered a lump on my dog's skin. Could it be cancer?

If you've discovered a lump or discolored patch of skin on your four-legged friend, you're bound to be worried about cancer, but it's important to remember that not all lumps and bumps are cancerous. For those that are cancerous, many are treatable if detected early.

Types of skin cancer in dogs include Squamous cell carcinoma (the most commonly diagnosed form of skin cancer in dogs), which is often found on a dog's head, rear, abdomen and lower legs.

Malignant melanoma can appear as dark-pigmented raised bumps, but not always. These are frequently found around a dog's lips, mouth and nail bed. While most melanomas are benign, malignant melanomas are a very serious health threat as they grow quickly and have a high risk of spreading to other organs.

Mast cell tumors occur in the immune system's mast cells and are very common in dogs. These tumors can grow anywhere on the skin, and even on a dog's internal organs.

If you have found something suspicious on your dog's skin, contact your vet right away to book an examination for your dog. Successful treatment outcomes depend in large part upon the very earliest detection!
What causes bacterial and fungal skin infections in dogs?

Many bacteria and fungi live on the skin naturally but are controlled by the immune system and do not cause issues under normal circumstances. If however the skin's condition changes or the immune system becomes suppressed, bacterial and fungal infections can occur.

Immune deficiencies or an increase in the amount of oils produced on the skin are common causes of yeast infections in dogs. Although yeast infections are not contagious, they can recur or become chronic unless the underlying skin condition or allergy is treated.

Some breeds such as the Lhasa Apso, Dachshund, Cocker Spaniel and others have a genetic predisposition to skin yeast infections. Staph infections can also make your dog's skin irritated and uncomfortable, leading to excessive chewing, licking or scratching. You may start to notice these behaviors if your canine companion has an allergy to medications, food, environmental factors or fleas.

Some chronic debilitating diseases, allergies, fungal infections of the blood and other secondary infections may result in staph infections. Although any age or breed of dog can be afflicted, older dogs are more susceptible due to their weakened immune systems.

About Charlotte, NC

Charlotte skyline, North Carolina

Charlotte is a major city and commercial hub in North Carolina. Its modern city center (Uptown) is home to the Levine Museum of the New South, which explores post–Civil War history in the South, and hands-on science displays at Discovery Place. Uptown is also known for the NASCAR Hall of Fame, which celebrates the sport of auto racing through interactive exhibits and films.

Veterinary Care in Charlotte FAQs

Do dogs and cats in Charlotte get fleas?

While ticks are a more seasonal concern, fleas are a year-round issue in climates like Charlotte, and they become especially problematic during heatwaves. Fleas live in the environment and will only land on an animal to feed, so if you see one flea on your pet, chances are there are many more nearby. Routine flea and tick prevention is a key component of preventive health for cats and dogs in Charlotte.

Learn More
Are dog parks common in Charlotte?

There are many dog parks all over Charlotte with off-leash areas for your dog to explore and interact with other dogs. That being said, make sure your dog is leash-trained and vaccinated before bringing him or her to public spaces. Keep your dog in check and within sight at all times, particularly if they are off-leash. Don’t forget to pick up after your pet.
How much does it cost to spay or neuter a cat in Charlotte?

The cost of a spay or neuter procedure for a cat in Charlotte will vary depending on several factors, including whether or not you have a wellness plan, the age and general health of the animal in question, and more. Spaying and neutering helps keep the cat population under control, and both procedures have a variety of health benefits for cats as well.

Learn More
How can I pay for veterinary treatment in Charlotte?

Most Charlotte residents pay for their veterinary care using insurance or out of pocket.

Your Charlotte vet wants to help your pet get the care they need to achieve a healthier smile. If you do not have pet insurance and cannot afford to pay for the care your pet needs, ask your vet about financing options or a payment plan.
How do I find a good vet in Charlotte?
To find a good veterinarian in Charlotte, there are a few things you can look for during your search:
- Positive reviews online
- A good 'bed-side manner' that makes you feel comfortable
- Willingness to take time to educate you on your pet's health in addition to providing treatment
- Easy process for booking appointments that strives to coordinate with your schedule
- Clear infection control protocols for your safety
- A range of services, including the specific types of pet care you are looking for
Is Parvovirus common in Charlotte?

Canine parvovirus, also called “parvo”, is a deadly disease that is spread via stool from one dog to another. Sadly, Parvo is very common in Charlotte. It spreads easily with rain and can stay in the soil up to eight years. For these reasons, it is essential to get your dog vaccinated.

Learn More

Find Cat & Dog Dermatology Services in Charlotte, NC.

Top reviewed veterinary professionals in Charlotte, NC, US offering Cat & Dog Dermatology Services

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