ฮอตสปอต (Hot Spots)

Key Facts

• Created by the pet in as little as 10 minutes of chewing
• More common in hot, humid weather and dogs with dense undercoats
• Staphylococcus intermedius is most common bacterial cause
• Location clue: hip = fleas/arthritis; near ear = ear infection/allergy
• Treatment: clip hair, clean, topical + possibly systemic antibiotics
• About 30% of suspected hot spots are actually deeper infections
• Good flea control is foundation of itch prevention