Mar

Yeasts in dogs

There is nothing more annoying than itching, especially when scratching doesn't help and you can't get rid of it. This applies not only to us, but also to our pets. In some cases, it goes as far as scratching open the whole skin. There can be several causes for itching: fleas, allergies, insect bites or shedding. However, it is also possible that your dog suffers from yeasts. Let's take a closer look at these small but powerful entities and understand how they affect the lives of our faithful four-legged friends.

What are yeasts?

Yeasts are single-celled fungi found everywhere in nature. They can grow well in warm, humid environments. Malassezia is the most common yeast in dogs. Although most yeasts occur normally and are harmless on the skin and in the ears of healthy dogs, they can become problematic when their population gets out of control. As a reaction, the skin becomes inflamed and then we speak of Malassezia dermatitis.

Causes of Malassezia dermatitis

A healthy dog is not likely to suffer from excessive yeasts. The immune system keeps the number of yeasts on the skin in balance. If the immune system weakens or changes occur to the skin, yeasts may have the opportunity to start growing. In most cases, Malassezia dermatitis is the result of another underlying problem. Possible underlying causes are:

Allergies such as contact or food allergies. Your dog may suffer more from yeast in some seasons than in others. This is due to the flowering season of different pollen.
Hormonal disorders
Parasitic infections
Use of drugs that suppress the immune system, such as corticosteroids.

In addition, skin folds are also sensitive areas in a dog. Although not only breeds with skin folds, such as a boxer, are at increased risk of Malassezia dermatitis. The West Highland white terrier and the dachshund are particularly prone to this, presumably due to a genetic background.

How do I know if my dog is suffering from yeast?

It is difficult for a layman to determine if your dog has a yeast infection. This has to be determined by a vet through an examination. You can recognise symptoms yourself that may be an indication. In a Malassezia dermatitis, the following symptoms are normal:

Itching and reddening of the skin
A musty smell
Scabs and flakes
Hotspots
Thickened skin
Discolouration of the skin or coat
Reddish-brown trim at the level of the nails
Chronic ear infections

The examination the vet performs to diagnose Malassezia dermatitis is called a Cytological examination. The vet takes a sample of skin cells and looks at them under the microscope, then assesses them. Taking a sample is completely painless and can be done with a sticky tape or a cotton swab.

Since it is not difficult to take a skin sample, but a visit to the vet can have a huge impact on the dog, HFL Animal Health has developed a home kit, the Cytocheck. This way, you can take a sample of skin cells at home. When you send it in, dermatologist M.W. Vroom will assess the sample. Curious about how to take a sample? Then watch the video below:

My dog has yeast problems, now what?

There are two issues that need to be addressed in case of a positive test result.

1. Find out the cause of the outbreak. Some times this is more difficult than others. When using immunosuppressant medications, it is more quickly apparent than in the case of an unusual allergy.
2. Addressing yeast infections. We don't want to let our dog run with the symptoms until we figure out the cause of the yeast outbreak. There are several types of shampoos on the market, but the process of washing daily is often considered inconvenient. Therefore, Remedy+'s Yeastosol spray is an excellent alternative. The case study conducted by animal dermatologist M.W. Vroom showed that the Yeastosol is just as effective as a shampoo. Even then, the owners indicated that they found the spray easier to use.

The advice is to use Yeastosol once or twice a day on the affected areas. As the spray contains alcohol, it is not recommended to spray on wounds. Indeed, this can sting a lot. It is also wise to distract your dog after spraying, for example with a ball or a walk. This prevents the dog from licking up the spray out of curiosity.

To know more about Yeastosol click here.