Battling Skin Fungus In Sphynx Cats

sphynx cat skin fungus

Sphynx cats are known for their distinctive appearance, characterised by their hairless bodies and soft fuzz on their long, muscular frames. While their unique look is a draw for many owners, it also comes with specific health considerations, particularly regarding their skin. Sphynx cats are prone to skin problems, including rashes, sunburn, urticaria pigmentosa, and fungal infections. Their exposed skin makes them more vulnerable to sun damage, with unpigmented patches being especially susceptible to sunburn. Additionally, their hairless state can lead to a build-up of oils on the skin, creating an environment conducive to bacterial and fungal growth.

petshun

Malassezia or yeast infections

Malassezia pachydermatis is a yeast that is commonly found on the skin and ears of cats. It is usually harmless, but an abnormal overgrowth can lead to skin conditions such as dermatitis or inflammation. This condition is quite rare in cats, but it can affect any breed. The exact causes of Malassezia dermatitis are not fully understood, but several factors can contribute to yeast overgrowth. These factors include a cat's immune system, long-term antibiotic use, allergies, and endocrine disorders.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Cats with Malassezia dermatitis may exhibit the following symptoms:

  • Loss of hair (alopecia)
  • Redness of affected areas
  • Malodorous discharge from lesions
  • Patches of skin becoming darker (hyperpigmentation)
  • Thickened skin (hyperkeratosis)
  • Inflamed or crusted areas
  • Greasy yellow/brown lesions
  • Facial fold dermatitis
  • Chin acne with swelling
  • Redness, hair loss, and brown greasy exudate in claws and nail folds
  • Redness, pain, and waxy build-up in the ears

To diagnose Malassezia dermatitis, veterinarians will perform a complete physical examination, including a biochemistry profile, urinalysis, and complete blood count. Specific testing may include a culture of the causative organism and a skin cytology test, where a small skin tissue sample is examined under a microscope to identify the presence of Malassezia yeast.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to reduce the number of yeast on the skin and address any underlying causes. Topical medications, such as medicated shampoos, wipes, sprays, or mousse, are often recommended for mild or localized infections. Oral antifungal medications, such as itraconazole or fluconazole, may be prescribed for more severe cases. It is important to follow the veterinarian's instructions and continue treatment until the infection resolves completely to prevent recurrence.

Can Cats Safely Consume Pumpkin?

You may want to see also

petshun

Bacterial skin infections

Sphynx cats are a unique breed that requires special care due to their lack of fur. While these cats are generally healthy, they are prone to certain health conditions, including skin infections.

There are three types of bacterial skin infections in cats: surface, superficial, and deep. Surface infections involve irritation and redness due to bacterial overgrowth. Superficial infections extend deeper into the epidermis and hair follicles, often caused by Staphylococcus bacteria. Deep infections are less common but more harmful, as they can lead to cellulitis or introduce bacteria into the bloodstream.

Signs of bacterial skin infection in Sphynx cats include excessive scale or dander, especially near the tail, small firm bumps on the skin, open sores or ulcers, and scratching or licking of the skin due to itchiness.

To diagnose a bacterial skin infection, veterinarians will consider the cat's history, clinical signs, and diagnostic testing. They may recommend skin cytology, skin scraping, Wood's lamp examination, trichogram, fungal culture, or bacterial culture and sensitivity testing.

Treatment for bacterial skin infections in Sphynx cats typically involves topical medications such as shampoos, creams, gels, ointments, sprays, wipes, and mousses. For more severe infections, systemic antibiotics may be prescribed, such as Itraconazole, Terbinafine, and Fluconazole. It is important to follow the veterinarian's instructions precisely and complete the full course of treatment.

In addition to bacterial infections, Sphynx cats are also prone to fungal infections, which can cause similar symptoms such as hair loss, redness, scaling, and crusting. Keeping the Sphynx cat's skin clean and moisturized can help prevent both bacterial and fungal infections. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for maintaining the health of these unique cats.

petshun

Ringworm

Sphynx cats are prone to skin problems due to their hairless bodies, which leave their skin exposed. One such skin condition is ringworm, a superficial, contagious fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and nails. Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by worms but by various types of fungi that cause similar lesions. The most common type of fungus responsible for ringworm in cats is Microsporum canis.

To prevent ringworm and other skin infections, it is crucial to keep your Sphynx cat's skin clean and moisturized. Regular bathing, typically every 7-10 days, with a mild, fragrance-free shampoo is recommended. Maintaining a high-quality diet specifically formulated for Sphynx cats can also help minimize oil production and reduce the risk of skin infections.

In addition to ringworm, Sphynx cats are susceptible to other skin conditions such as sunburn, urticaria pigmentosa, seborrhea, and various types of dermatitis. Their unique skin also makes them more prone to scratches and abrasions. Therefore, it is essential to take extra care in maintaining their skin health and providing adequate protection from the sun and other potential irritants.

petshun

Sunburn

Sphynx cats are prone to sunburn due to their lack of fur, which makes them particularly vulnerable to the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. This can cause skin damage, redness, pain, and even skin cancer. Protecting your Sphynx cat from sunburn is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Here are some preventive measures and treatment options:

Preventing Sunburn in Sphynx Cats:

  • Limit sun exposure: Keep your cat indoors during peak sun hours, typically from 10 am to 4 pm.
  • Provide shade: Create shady areas or use a shirt to protect your cat's skin when outdoors.
  • Use sunscreen: Apply a pet-safe sunscreen formulated for cats to exposed areas like the ears, nose, and tail. Avoid human sunscreens, as they may contain ingredients toxic to cats, such as salicylates and zinc oxide.
  • Keep your cat hydrated: Ensure access to fresh water to prevent dehydration.

Treating Sunburn in Sphynx Cats:

  • Veterinary care: Seek veterinary attention promptly if your Sphynx experiences sunburn.
  • Cool compresses: Apply cool compresses to the affected area to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
  • Aloe vera gel: Use aloe vera gel to moisturize and soothe sunburned skin.
  • Anti-inflammatory medication: Your veterinarian may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and discomfort.
  • Antibiotics: If the sunburn becomes infected, antibiotics may be necessary.

It's important to recognize the symptoms of sunburn in Sphynx cats, which include redness and inflammation of the skin, blistering or peeling skin, lethargy and loss of appetite, and crusting or scabbing of the affected area. Additionally, Sphynx cats are prone to overheating due to their lack of fur. Provide them with a cool, shaded area and access to fresh water to prevent heatstroke.

petshun

Urticaria pigmentosa

Sphynx cats are prone to skin problems, including rashes and fungal infections. One such skin condition is Urticaria pigmentosa.

In one case, a 14-month-old castrated male domestic shorthair cat presented with these symptoms and underwent various treatments, including skin scrapes, cytology, food trials, and antibiotic therapy, without significant improvement. A skin biopsy was then performed, revealing large numbers of well-differentiated monomorphic mast cells with fewer eosinophils infiltrating the superficial dermis, which is indicative of urticaria pigmentosa.

The treatment for this condition includes a combination of oral dexamethasone and cetirizine hydrochloride, which has been shown to produce favourable results. In the case mentioned above, the cat's pruritus resolved completely, and hair regrew on the face, neck, and front paws. The cat was maintained on cetirizine hydrochloride, with intermittent tapering courses of dexamethasone.

Another reported case involved a nine-year-old female sphinx cat that presented with pruritic maculopapular eruption. Skin histopathology revealed findings similar to human urticaria pigmentosa. The cat was treated with predonisolone and an antihistamine for two weeks, followed by cyclosporine, an immunosuppressive drug. As the clinical signs improved, cyclosporine was gradually reduced and replaced with predonisolone. The treatment was successful, and the cat remained healthy with no recurrence two months after completing therapy.

Frequently asked questions

A good rule of thumb is to bathe your Sphynx cat with a fragrance-free, mild veterinary or baby shampoo every 7-10 days.

It is recommended to use a gentle shampoo designed for sensitive skin.

Malassezia dermatitis, a common skin infection in Sphynx cats, causes brown spots on the skin that may be itchy.

Vets typically treat skin fungus with medicated shampoo containing an antifungal and antiseptic. Oral medication may also be used for deep or widespread skin infections.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment