Skin issues are one of the most common reasons pet parents visit the vet. At 108 Avenue Animal Hospital, we often hear that the problem started as simple itching or a small red patch. What follows can quickly turn painful if the infection spreads or is treated incorrectly. Understanding the difference between bacterial and fungal skin infections helps you act sooner and avoid ongoing flare ups.
Why Skin Infections Happen So Easily In Pets
Your pet’s skin is the first line of defense against the outside world. When that barrier is damaged, bacteria and fungi that normally live on the skin can overgrow and cause infection.
Common triggers include
- Allergies to food or environmental factors
- Moisture trapped in skin folds or fur
- Fleas and parasites
- Excessive licking or scratching
- Weakened immune systems
- Underlying hormonal or metabolic conditions
The challenge is that different infections can look similar at first.
Bacterial Skin Infections What They Look Like
Bacterial skin infections, often called pyoderma, are commonly caused by Staphylococcus bacteria. These bacteria normally live on the skin but can cause problems when the skin barrier is compromised.
Typical signs include
- Red, inflamed skin
- Pus filled bumps or pimples
- Crusting or scabbing
- Hair loss in circular or patchy patterns
- Strong or unusual odor
Dogs are more commonly affected, but cats can develop bacterial infections as well.
Bacterial infections often start secondary to another issue such as allergies or fleas. Treating the infection without addressing the underlying cause frequently leads to recurrence.
Fungal Skin Infections How They Differ
Fungal infections behave differently and usually develop more slowly. The most common fungal infections we see are yeast infections and ringworm.
Yeast Infections
Yeast thrives in warm, moist areas. Ears, paws, skin folds, and groin areas are especially vulnerable.
Signs of yeast infections include
- Greasy or oily skin
- Thickened or darkened skin
- Persistent licking of paws
- Itching that does not improve with typical treatments
- Sweet or musty odor
Dogs with chronic allergies are particularly prone to yeast overgrowth.
Ringworm
Despite the name, ringworm is a fungal infection, not a worm. It is contagious and can spread to other pets and humans.
Signs include
- Circular areas of hair loss
- Scaly or flaky skin
- Mild itching or no itching at all
- Lesions on the face, ears, or paws
Early diagnosis is critical to prevent spread within the household.
Why Correct Diagnosis Matters
Treating a fungal infection with antibiotics or a bacterial infection with antifungals can make the problem worse. Symptoms may temporarily improve while the infection continues beneath the surface.
At 108 Avenue Animal Hospital, diagnosis often includes skin cytology, cultures, or specialized tests to determine the exact cause. This allows us to tailor treatment and shorten recovery time.
Treatment Approaches For Each Type Of Infection
Treating Bacterial Skin Infections
Treatment may involve
- Oral antibiotics for an appropriate duration
- Medicated shampoos or sprays
- Treating underlying allergies or parasites
- Recheck exams to ensure full resolution
Stopping antibiotics too early is one of the most common reasons bacterial infections return.
Treating Fungal Skin Infections
Treatment may include
- Antifungal medications
- Topical treatments such as medicated wipes or baths
- Environmental cleaning for ringworm cases
- Managing moisture and skin folds
Fungal infections often take longer to resolve and require consistency.
When Skin Problems Keep Coming Back
Repeated infections are a red flag that something deeper is going on. Chronic skin issues are often linked to
- Food or environmental allergies
- Hormonal conditions like thyroid disease
- Poor nutrition
- Immune system dysfunction
Long term management focuses on both treatment and prevention.
When To Book A Vet Visit
If your pet has persistent itching, redness, hair loss, or skin odor, it is time for an exam. Early treatment helps prevent spreading, pain, and chronic skin damage.
For expert diagnosis and care, contact 108 Avenue Animal Hospital at (604) 581-1108. Our team is happy to help your pet find relief and keep their skin healthy.
