Infections That Cause Hair Loss in Pitbulls
Infections that cause hair loss in pitbulls can only be diagnosed and treated by a vet. The vet will need to do diagnostic test to determine the exact cause. The infections can look the same, but the treatments are vastly different.
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Infections
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The 4 main infections that can cause hair loss in pitbulls are sarcoptic mange, ringworm, yeast infection and demodectic mange.
Sarcoptic Mange
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Sarcoptic mange is contagious. It is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. The infection appears mostly on the ears, elbows and abdomen. Sarcoptic mange is treated with Selamectin, Moxidectin or Milbemycin.
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Ringworm
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Ringworm or dermatophytes is a fungal infection. Ringworm usually appears as scaly bald spots on the face, ears, tail and paws. Ringworm can also spread to humans and other animals. Treatments include an anti-fungus drug called Griseofulvin. The vet may also recommend a sulfur dip.
Yeast Infections
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Yeast infections of the skin are caused by Malassezia pachydermatis. It appears as red sores and hair loss. The pitbull may also have a musty smell. The vet may recommend a special powder, vitamin or shampoo or a change in diet.
Demodectic Mange
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Demodectic Mange is caused by the demodectic mite. The bald spots will be about the size of a dime usually by the ear, eyes, abdomen and/or paws. The most common treatment is a chemical dip to kill off the mites, combined with antibiotics and special shampoos to help heal the damage.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Wikimedia Commons.
