BEHAVIOUR

Why won’t my pet stop scratching?

Understand the common causes of scratching in dogs and cats.

Share the article:

All pets scratch sometimes, but when it becomes frequent or persistent, it’s wise to see your veterinarian. In addition to causing your pet distress, where your pet is scratching can become infected and lead to other problems. Many skin irritation issues are treatable. Left without treatment, though, the problem area can become worse, and the scratching will likely continue. Your veterinarian will work with you to try to determine the cause of the itching. Depending on the cause, your veterinarian will create a treatment plan for your pet to address the issue.

Major causes of scratching in dogs¹ and cats²

Here are some common causes of scratching – but remember, no matter what cause you suspect, consult your veterinarian if your pet is scratching excessively.

Fleas

Flea bites can trigger itching in pets. Your veterinarian can recommend appropriate treatment.

Environmental allergies

Like humans, pets can be allergic to grasses, pollen, mold, dust, and detergents. They may also be sensitive to plastic, pesticides, and even airborne particles. There’s no limit to the number of things that can instigate compulsive scratching. In addition, cats and dogs can be allergic to more than one substance, and to varying degrees.

Food allergies

Perhaps what’s causing your pet to scratch is the food she eats. Cats and dogs can become sensitive to a protein or other substance, even if they have been consuming it for years. The way a veterinarian identifies a food allergy is by restricting a pet to a specific diet and then slowly introducing ingredients back into the bowl. Your veterinarian can also prescribe special food for pets with food allergies or sensitivities.

Two vets are treating a cat's wound on its front left paw

Mange

Highly contagious mange mites will burrow into a dog’s skin, cause hair loss and lead to an itchy bacterial infection. Most pets that contract mange do so through exposure to an infected animal. A variety of treatments are used to treat mange.

Ear mites

Ear mites are tiny parasites that make a home in the wax and oils inside a pet’s ear and lead to both scratching and a bad smell. As ear mites feed, the ear becomes inflamed and itchy.

Ear infections

Certain breeds, such as cocker spaniels, are prone to ear infections because their long, hairy ears block ventilation, so they must be cleaned regularly. Yeast infections are also a common ear issue for pets.

Dry skin

Seasonal changes, as well as low humidity, or environmental irritants, can all cause scratching and dandruff, the telltale sign of dry skin. Over-grooming can also dry skin.

References

More itchy pets? No problem. American Veterinary Medical Association. https://www.avma.org/javma-news/2020-02-15/more-itchy-pets-no-problem
Why Your Cat Is Itchy and What You Can Do. PetMD. https://www.petmd.com/cat/symptoms/skin/why-your-cat-itchy-and-what-you-can-do

Are you looking for a veterinarian?

Your veterinarian plays an essential role in ensuring the good health of your dog or cat. Find a professional near you!

Find a vet

In the spotlight

Wag-worthy updates!

Subscribe to our newsletter for pet information and advice.

*By entering my email address and clicking the “Submit” button, I authorize Merck Animal Health to use my   email address for the purpose of sending me communications by email about products, promotions and   educational articles. I understand that my email address will be accessible for this purpose to a limited   number of Merck Animal Health’s employees, agents and representatives. I also understand that I can   unsubscribe at any time. I agree to the Merck Animal Health privacy policy. Contact us for more information.