Causes of the disease
Allergies in Sphynx cats may occur due to:
- Bad environment.
- Increased sensitivity to substances.
- Growth of chemical production.
- The rise of aggressive antibacterial drugs.
- Bad environment.
- Increased sensitivity to substances.
- Growth of chemical production.
- The rise of aggressive antibacterial drugs.
- Dermatitis;
- Vasculitis;
- Fungal diseases.
- Eosinophilic plaques - oval red spots on the thighs and abdomen;
- Eosinophilic granulomas - pinkish-yellow plaques in the mouth or on the thighs;
- Infections (mycoplasma, staphylococci, viruses, streptococci, fungi);
- Use of certain medications (antibacterial drugs, vitamins included in group B, sulfonamides, dyes);
- Stress associated with exhibitions, matings, transportation;
- Increased hormonal levels;
- Telangiectatic;
- Livedo type;
- Eczematoid;
- Polymorphic;
- Sneezing appears, as well as swelling of the nasal mucosa.
- Severe dry cough.
- Swelling of the airways, as well as bronchospasms.
- Allergic rashes in the form of urticaria or dermatitis, which is accompanied by severe itching.
- Dermatitis;
- Vasculitis;
- Livedo type;
- Eczematoid;
- Polymorphic;
- Dermatitis;
- Vasculitis;
- Livedo type;
- Eczematoid;
- Polymorphic;
From birth, Don Sphynx kittens are predisposed to inflammatory diseases, corneal ulcers, conjunctivitis, and scleritis. As soon as the kitten opens its eyes, the animal's coordination system has not yet been formed. They can injure the eyes from various obstacles and objects. Kittens' eyes require daily examination. It is necessary to remove lint and mucus from them, and also wash them with furatsilin.
The Don Sphynx breed is the most susceptible to diseases compared to other cat breeds. The causes and diseases are very specific.
A carp bite (short lower jaw) is a congenital disorder of the ossification of the jaw. Malocclusion occurs in all domestic animals, but is most common in the Don Sphynx. A violation is considered to be a displacement of two rows of incisors that cannot align. The violation occurs due to the arrest of the animal's growth at the moment when the symphysis in the lower jaw of the incisive bone ossifies prematurely.
Sometimes such a defect is mild and does not bother the animal. Long fangs can injure the upper jaw, which quickly develops painful “pockets.” Because of such “pockets,” the cat develops gingivitis. The short lower jaw of the Sphinx is formed due to underdevelopment of the tail vertebrae, stunted growth and dwarfism. Sphynxes with this pathology are not suitable for reproduction.
Microphthalmos is abnormal development of the eye, decreased vision or blindness. With microphthalmia, the eyeball is reduced. Microphthalmos is closely associated with other eye defects: cataracts and congenital keratitis. Many kittens are born with open eyes, tumors, an orbital cyst, and an incomplete palpebral fissure.
Bowing and softening of the tail spine is another common occurrence in this breed. Kittens with a bent tail are present in every second litter. Further breeding of such kittens is impossible. They are born non-viable with additional defects: underdevelopment of the intestines, weakness of the anus, shortening of the thoracic, lumbar vertebrae and lower jaw.
Nipple hyperplasia in the Don Sphynx is a hereditary phenomenon that is transmitted from the mother. After a year of life, the nipples begin to turn red, and the skin in this area thickens. The nipple increases in size, forming cysts. Therapeutic treatment is ineffective. Kittens from such a cat are often not viable and may have underdeveloped internal organs.
Sphynxes are a fairly popular breed of cat, characterized by high intelligence, good memory and affection for their owners. And although they do not have the usual fur coat for mustachioed four-legged cats, they also suffer from various skin diseases along with other cat breeds.
Therefore, periodically appearing spots on the skin of the sphinx can overshadow their coexistence. Let's look at the reasons for this phenomenon.
Let's look at how rashes manifest themselves and how they are treated in one case or another.
Dermatitis
In addition, allergic manifestations may include common skin symptoms - redness, dandruff and itching. The animal scratches itchy places, as a result of which wounds and eczema appear on its body.
Dermatitis can be managed by eliminating contact with potential allergens. The cat should be put on a hypoallergenic diet (lamb and rice), and antihistamines and steroids should be used to alleviate its condition.
Vasculitis
Spots on the Sphynx's body associated with taking medications appear 7-20 days after taking the medication.
Vasculitis that begins against the background of changes in hormonal levels or stressful situations occurs in several stages. Over the course of 2-5 days, rashes appear, and then within 1-2 weeks the skin manifestations disappear.
The telangiectatic type is diagnosed, as a rule, in cats involved in breeding work. The pathology is accompanied by the appearance of spots on the skin of the sphinx of a pinkish or brownish-red hue, muted in the central part and more pronounced along the outer contour (as a rule, there are dark dots along the edges of the lesions).
Livedo type is diagnosed, as a rule, in cats of creamy blue and red shades, as well as harlequin color. The onset of the disease is characterized by the appearance of a vascular network along the spine, in the area of the shoulder blades and the back of the head. After several days, bluish spots appear in place of the mesh, becoming covered with small nodules and hemorrhages as the pathology progresses.
The eczematoid type develops in both male and female cats, regardless of their color, and begins with the appearance of a small eczematoid spot on the hind legs or tail. The affected area swells and turns red, papules and crusts form. The animal experiences severe itching and licks the skin, injuring it and promoting secondary fungal and staphylococcal infection (in this case, the spots quickly spread upward along the limb, subsequently moving to the stomach).
The polymorphic type is manifested by rashes characteristic of the pathologies described above.
Vasculitis therapy is aimed at strengthening the immune system, preventing stressful situations and reducing the severity of skin manifestations.
Fungal infections
Fungal infections (Microsporia and Trichophytosis) are manifested by the appearance of red spots on the Sphynx's body that increase over time, covered with crusts and scales. Treatment of pathology involves the use of internal and external antifungal agents, for example, Itraconazole.
The first cause of such troubles is a weak immune system in allergy sufferers. The patient's body detects harmful substances, and in particular, the protein that sphinxes secrete. He perceives it as a bacteria or virus and begins to fight it.
Many still do not believe that hairless cats are capable of causing severe allergic reactions, so they are interested in whether there is an allergy to Sphynxes? After all, it is believed that because sphinxes are hairless, they are less allergenic. But in fact, any cat is potentially dangerous; in any case, it can cause illness.
And in this case this does not depend in any way on the breed, length of coat or shedding. A person who decides to get a pet such as a cat is still potentially exposed to diseases such as allergies. So, for people suffering from allergies, the idea of having a pet is not a good one.
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If you are planning to get a Sphynx, then remember that an allergy to the Sphynx will also not be excluded.
Contact
All Sphynxes (regardless of breed) are covered with a brown, wax-like coating (sebum mixed with natural pollution), which is designed to protect the animal's skin from external influences. In some cats this plaque forms constantly and abundantly, in others it does not form at all. It is believed that the amount and regularity of plaque formation depends on properly selected food, genetic characteristics, the health of the cat and the temperature in the room (the hotter it is, the more Sphynx cats sweat).
To remove plaque, you need to regularly wipe your Sphynx with wet wipes for cats (without alcohol!) or just a terry towel moistened with warm water. Particular attention should be paid to the ears (they can be cleaned with cotton swabs or cotton swabs), fingers and the area around the eyes - plaque accumulates there more often and in greater quantities than on other parts of the body.
Sphynxes' skin often peels and cracks. To prevent this from happening, you need to humidify the air in the apartment and the animal’s skin itself. For example, a Sphynx can be lubricated with oil (baby oil for cats) or washed with a moisturizing, nourishing shampoo (products with mink oil work well). And, of course, you should not allow your pet to interact too closely with the radiator; they can not only dry out the skin, but also leave serious burns.
Vasculitis
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Vasculitis
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What caused the stains?
There are several reasons for the appearance of spots on the skin of hairless cats. In some situations, hyperpigmentation is a consequence of exposure to external factors, in other cases, a partial change in color is a sign of pathology:
- Exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Pets whose body surface is not protected in any way can not only get sunburned, but also “burn out” in clear weather. Prolonged exposure to bright rays is very harmful to a cat's health; sunbathing can cause a partial change in color. Spots on the Sphynx's skin appear in particularly sensitive places; they acquire pink or chocolate shades.
- Allergic reactions. Caring owners, when taking their naked pets for a walk during the cold season, dress them in jackets or overalls. Synthetics can irritate the delicate body, causing a rash on the stomach.
- Poor nutrition. An animal's body can react negatively to a number of foods. Protein is often identified as the cause of food allergies. Owners are advised to study which foods cause the rash to appear more. By eliminating an inappropriate element of the diet, you can save your pet from suffering.
- Skin diseases. Ringworm appears in the form of shapeless pink roundness. Some types of disease are very dangerous for humans. Various fungal dermatitis may appear as granules or grains that quickly spread throughout the body.
- Parasites. The opinion that blood-sucking insects and arachnids bite only animals covered with fur is erroneous. Fleas and subcutaneous ticks are very rare in sphinxes, but if they are present, one can judge a skin infection, accompanied by spots on the body of the sphinx.
- Hormonal disbalance. The diagnosis is often confirmed in older cats, as well as in individuals during the period of sexual desire. The clinical picture can be determined by a veterinarian after diagnostic procedures.
- Scars. Cats have very delicate skin, and deep scratches can leave marks that last a lifetime. Healed cuts are much lighter than the main body color of the animal.
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Allergies in Don and Canadian Sphynxes
Detected stains can be removed. True, first you need to establish the cause of their occurrence. Each disease manifests itself in a special way:
- Allergy. As a result of the body's reaction to poor-quality clothing or food, a rash appears. The problem is accompanied by redness and watery eyes, apathy to what is happening around.
- Dermatitis. Infectious and fungal diseases spread quite quickly over the entire surface, spots on the Sphynx's skin flake and itch, and sometimes ulcers form.
- Parasites. At the site of an insect bite, such as a flea, the body becomes red and inflamed.
Treatment of a disease caused by an infection, fungus or allergy should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist.
Powders and detergents, dyes and other additives in food, antibiotics, synthetic fabrics and polluted air do not promote health.
In addition to all the listed reasons, allergies occur in Don Sphynxes. Moreover, it is caused by a protein that the animal itself produces. It is found in urine, saliva and skin and is called a glycoprotein.
Allergies in Sphynx cats are expressed by signs such as ulcers, esinophilic plaques (oval red spots on the abdomen and thighs), esinophilic granulomas (pink-yellow plaques on the thighs or in the mouth).
For an ordinary person, it can be difficult to understand that the cause of such symptoms was an allergy in the Sphynx. Photos illustrate typical forms of irritation. But the veterinarian has the final say in making a diagnosis.
In this breed of cat, allergies may have typical skin symptoms: redness, rash, itching, dandruff. Moisture accumulates in the armpits and other folds, which causes an unpleasant odor. As a result of scratching, wounds and eczema appear on the skin, which can become infected. The pet is also concerned about itching in the nose, eyes and ears. The cat becomes lethargic, drowsy, stops playing and leading an active lifestyle.
The cause of the disease is not always an allergy; in Sphynx cats the same symptoms are caused by endocrine diseases or bacterial infections. Therefore, the final diagnosis is made by the doctor based on the tests performed.
Hairless cats may develop spots on their skin.
Owners of hairless cats do not have problems with the hair of their animals, since they simply do not have it. This makes caring for your pet much easier. There is no need to comb it very often. However, they are faced with another problem - the appearance of dark spots on the surface of the animal's body. Where do they come from? Why do they arise?
The classic distribution of skin lesions due to food allergies in cats and Sphynx cats: facial part of the muzzle, neck and paws.
Sarcoptic mange and atopy (atopic dermatitis) are two diseases that are often similar in symptoms to food allergies, but differ markedly in approaches to the treatment of Sphynx cats suffering from them. If the diagnosis is unreliable, a lot of time and money will be wasted.
Please note that three of the above criteria are ones that you, the owner, can easily notice at home, but may not be noticed by a doctor at an appointment. Trouble begins when the veterinarian has to talk to all family members at the same time and reveals discrepancies in their observations. It is better to send one person with the Canadian Sphynx, preferably the one who is in contact with the Sphynx more often than others.
This breed of Sphynx is the most susceptible to allergies. The main cause of allergies in the Don Sphynx is a glycoprotein, which is contained in its urine, saliva and dandruff. Allergies in the Sphynx can be caused by food. Of course, both of them may have the same allergy:
- Pollen, mold and dust
- Remains of pathogenic microflora.
- Medicines.
- Some feed ingredients.
- Hygiene products.
- The appearance of dandruff.
- Red rash.
- Moisture in the armpits.
- Otitis.
- The cat rubs its nose and bites its paws.
- The appearance of ulcers on the body.
- The animal is lethargic and sleeps a lot.
Hairless sphinxes were specially bred through inbreeding in order to consolidate the mutation of “rubbery” smooth skin and an abundance of folds. As a result, animals were prone to abnormal development of a number of organs: eyes, jaws, spine, intestines.
Another name is “carp bite.” A congenital pathology of smooth-haired pets, manifested by shortening of the lower jaw. Its growth stops prematurely due to early ossification of the symphysis in the incisor area.
The disease is manifested by the following symptoms:
With mild manifestations, sphinxes adapt and can eat solid pieces of food.
Microphthalmos
Improper formation and development of the eye leads to a decrease in its size. Accompanied by decreased visual acuity, keratitis, coloboma and cataracts.
This disease can be detected in kittens at birth. They are born with open eyes, tumors and eye cysts. One of the causes of the anomaly is intrauterine chlamydia.
Scientists have proven the connection of the disease with reduced fertility of small animals.
Externally, the pathology looks like an inward turning of the eyelids. The eyelashes and the edge of the eyelids curl up and touch the membrane of the eye. As a result, animals from birth suffer from continuous conjunctivitis and inflammation of the sclera. Surgeons perform surgical interventions for correction, as a result of which minor improvements are possible.
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The defect often occurs in kittens born after inbred crossing. Every second litter is characterized by such a congenital disease. Animals often turn out to be non-viable, since additional serious defects are simultaneously detected in them:
- anomaly of the intestine, mainly the thick section;
- weak rectal sphincter;
- reduced height;
- underdevelopment of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae.
Nipple hyperplasia
It is inherited through the female line. Scientists have proven the connection with the characteristic color and eye color.
The following animals are mainly affected:
- with light blue skin;
- blue-cream;
- with blue eyes.
The disease manifests itself and progresses gradually. When female kittens turn one year old, their nipples turn red. Over time, the skin around the nipple thickens and becomes keratinized. The nipple itself takes the shape of a club and increases in size. Cysts often appear.
In such mother cats, babies are often born with pathologies of internal organs and die at an early age due to the incompatibility of severe defects with life. The birth itself is difficult due to the weakness of labor. Little milk is produced.
One of the proven causes of hyperplasia is taking medications that suppress sexual activity. At the same time, unilateral or bilateral ovarian cysts form. Surgical treatment: sterilization, nipple removal.
Underdevelopment of the thymus
Kitten falling asleep syndrome is also called pathological underdevelopment of the thymus. Outwardly healthy kittens, who had just eaten or played, begin to die one by one - they literally fall asleep.
The most common cause of mass death of kittens of the same litter is inbreeding. Babies have a very low survival rate. Already in the first days, some people clearly notice the following signs:
- bluish skin on the face and paws;
- growth retardation;
- parchment leather;
- weak, sluggish sucking.
Gingival hyperplasia
Accompanied by pathological growth of mucous tissue, up to the closure of the surface of the teeth. It manifests itself as increased bleeding, pain, and a high risk of bleeding when eating solid food or cartilage. Does not affect other structures of the oral cavity (tongue, cheeks). It occurs chronically.
Diagnostics
Experts always ask:
- Cat's diet.
- Date of first symptoms.
- Pet hygiene products.
- Cleaning products in the house.
- Is the animal taking medication?
Sphynxes are very sensitive to everything, you need to tell the veterinarian every detail, because the animal may be allergic to your perfumes or plants.
How to check if you are allergic to the Sphynx?
Very simple. You need to be in contact with the cat for some time (half an hour - an hour) and if it is there, it will definitely appear. This can be either ordinary sneezing with an itchy nose, or a rash over the body, swelling of the upper respiratory tract.
How to minimize risks?
No one can guarantee that you or any family member will never be allergic to cats. It can also occur after a long time of living together with an animal.
If your body is sensitive to the effects of various types of allergens, it will be useful to know a few tips:
It's better to choose a cat than a male cat.
Cats are generally less likely to cause allergic reactions than cats.
Allergies in Sphinxes: treatment
In order to cure food allergies in Sphynx cats, you need to follow a diet. It is necessary to identify and eliminate the allergen from the diet.
Specialists take scrapings from the skin to determine the microbial microflora. But if the tests are negative, then you still need to carry out antimicrobial treatment. Then allergy tests are performed. They help to identify exactly what cats are allergic to (mites, dust, fleas, medications, household chemicals, etc.).
- Use of steroids and antihistamines.
- Give your pet vitamins.
- Feed mutton, lamb and rice.
- Olive oil.
The diet of a young child excludes from the diet foods that cause rashes. Often by the age of five, the allergic mood decreases, the microflora and enzymatic composition of the digestive organs are formed.
In this case, the external medications used should be antiseptic and reduce the body's allergic reactions (they are called antihistamines). Antihistamines are prescribed by your doctor. Antiseptic and anti-inflammatory drugs may contain baby cream and pharmaceutical ointment.
Treating a child only with external means, applying antihistamine cream, applying anti-inflammatory ointment is ineffective and insufficient. In order to further cure dermatitis, it is necessary to remove the causes of the disease and irritating factors.
Treatment for dermatitis often takes several years. With the strengthening of the body and the formation of intestinal microflora, the rashes on the hands and head disappear.
Different types of sphinxes, due to the specificity of the skin, are prone to various diseases. For example, some owners wonder why spots appeared on the skin of the Sphinx and what is the root cause of this manifestation.
To give the most truthful answer to the question of why the Sphinx has spots on its skin, you must first know what type they are. Only on this basis can a final diagnosis be made in the future. In the case when the spots have a bright pink or slightly brownish color, occupy a fairly large area on the body and are somewhat paler in the center than at the edges, we can talk about telangiectatic type vasculitis.
These spots are prone to constant, albeit not too significant, increase. A tendency to merge these spots into certain complexes can also be considered a kind of confirmation that we are talking about this particular disease. Other symptoms, such as weakness or lack of appetite, are not observed in this case.
When studying the question of why bluish spots appeared on the skin of the Sphinx, it is necessary to note the possibility of the existence of livedo-type vasculitis. The onset of such a disease is typical for those animals whose color is blue-cream or corresponds to the harlequin type. It is important to note that the appearance of such spots must be preceded by the process of the appearance of a mesh or branched skin pattern, which subsequently provokes the formation of the corresponding spot. If nothing like this was observed, we can say that the cat could have had injuries that led to the onset of a similar condition.
Sometimes spots on the skin of sphinxes can occur as a result of direct exposure to sunlight. At the same time, the animal looks lethargic. Treatment of such burns should be carried out immediately and only with the involvement of a veterinarian.
In the case of the formation of deep pink and, in some cases, red spots on the skin of sphinxes, which initially appear mainly in the area of the hind limbs, we can talk about the onset of an excymatoid type of vasculitis. This is one of the most dangerous varieties. After all, due to the severe itching that provokes the disease, the cat constantly further injures itself. There is also a risk of additional infection.
In the Sphynx, spots on the skin may also be pigmented in nature. Their occurrence in some cases is associated with the wrong choice of diet. The point is that the animal eats exclusively food, the composition of which, moreover, does not correspond to its physiological characteristics. Sometimes pigmentation can occur as a manifestation of food allergies. In this case, you should immediately consult a veterinarian and get tested to identify the allergen and counteract it.
If brown spots appear on the Sphynx's skin with an uneven surface and peeling is observed around it, then in this case we can talk about the potential presence of a fungal disease. Considering that there are a sufficient number of types of fungi, there is no need to start treatment on your own.
Firstly, there are a huge number of different medications, from among which it can be difficult to choose the best option. Secondly, if the treatment started does not bring results, you will still need to seek help from specialists. But, given that the use of medications leads to “blurring” the picture, it will be more difficult to make an accurate diagnosis.
Sometimes pigmentation can appear in cats that have reached an advanced age (12 years or more). In this case, it is not hazardous to health and is only aesthetically unattractive. It is almost impossible to eliminate it.
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Thus, there are a sufficient number of reasons why spots may appear on the skin of a sphinx. Therefore, in order to identify the main cause, it is necessary not to delay the visit to the doctors and strictly follow the recommendations they provide.
Sphynxes are a fairly popular breed of cat, characterized by high intelligence, good memory and affection for their owners. And although they do not have the usual fur coat for mustachioed four-legged cats, they also suffer from various skin diseases along with other cat breeds. Therefore, periodically appearing spots on the skin of the sphinx can overshadow their coexistence. Let's look at the reasons for this phenomenon.
- Dermatitis;
- Vasculitis;
- Fungal diseases.
Dermatitis
- Eosinophilic plaques - oval red spots on the thighs and abdomen;
- Eosinophilic granulomas - pinkish-yellow plaques in the mouth or on the thighs;
Vasculitis
- Infections (mycoplasma, staphylococci, viruses, streptococci, fungi);
- Use of certain medications (antibacterial drugs, vitamins included in group B, sulfonamides, dyes);
- Stress associated with exhibitions, matings, transportation;
- Increased hormonal levels;
The manifestations of the disease largely depend on the gender and color of the animal - vasculitis in sphinxes in this case can occur in the following types:
- Telangiectatic;
- Livedo type;
- Eczematoid;
- Polymorphic;
Caring for the Sphynx's skin is not too complicated, but it is just as necessary as brushing for cats with fur. In addition, caring for a Sphynx is more labor-intensive than caring for a short-haired cat, and in terms of time and material costs it can be compared with caring for a Persian. So you shouldn’t think that by buying a hairless cat, you’ve made your task easier, especially since instead of fur, your clothes and furniture will now have a brown coating that’s hard to wash off.
Interest in the study and treatment of diseases of sphinxes did not arise by chance. It is due, firstly, to the lack of literature on this topic, and secondly, to the historically and genetically established characteristics of such breeds as the Don and St. Petersburg Sphynxes. In this article I will try to briefly describe those diseases of sphinxes that have been observed and treated over the past three years.
1. Shortening of the lower jaw (Brachygnatia inferior) - otherwise “carp bite”, undershot - congenital shortening of the lower jaw due to a violation of the process of its ossification - an malocclusion that occurs in all domestic animals, but especially often in Don Sphynxes. This anomaly is characterized by the fact that both rows of incisors do not align.
The defect is caused by an arrest in length growth due to premature ossification of the symphysis in the incisive part of the mandibular bone. In extreme cases, when both rows of teeth are so far from each other that they cannot touch at all, the teeth, the rubbing part of which is not worn out because of this, reach such a length that this causes injury and inflammation of the hard palate.
In any case, the act of sucking and eating is difficult, which, with a narrowing of the arch of the lower jaw and usually simultaneous hypoplasia of the tongue, can lead to death due to starvation. At the same time, this defect is so mildly expressed that it does not cause practically any concern to the animal. The cat’s fangs cause particular concern; very often painful “pockets” form on the upper jaw, areas that are endlessly traumatized by the fangs, which often leads to gingivitis.
Very often, shortening of the lower jaw in sphinxes is accompanied by curvature or underdevelopment of the vertebrae of the last third of the tail, general retardation, dwarfism, and hypothyroidism.
Animals with this pathology cannot be allowed for breeding.
2. Microphthalmos. Microphthalmia refers to all cases of abnormal development of the eye associated with reduced visual acuity or blindness, when the eyeball is more or less reduced, but some of its rudiments are still found in the orbit. Such microphthalmia is often combined with other eye defects, for example, colobomas or cataracts, congenital keratitis (which is very common in Sphynxes; most “rubber” kittens are born with open eyes), orbital cysts or tumors.
Possible reasons
Sphynx cats have skin problems throughout their lives, since they do not have hair, which provides other cats with reliable protection from external irritants. Therefore, Canadian and Don Sphynxes are often troubled by the following pathologies:
- Comedones. The most common cause of small rashes in Sphynx cats of all ages. The size of the rashes is rarely larger than a match head. They are localized mainly on the tail and belly. The number sometimes reaches several dozen. The color is flesh-colored, sometimes white. When pressed, a thick gray secretion may be released. For minor manifestations, salicylic acid is used to treat the affected surfaces; in severe cases, Zinerit.
- Acne. They differ from comens in that they can become inflamed and merge with each other into one large lesion. Blackheads are almost always filled with pus. After opening, deep ulcers remain in their place, which scar when healing. Acne is difficult to treat and tends to have a long, chronic course. There is a close connection with hormonal changes, so they often occur before the age of one year. In cats, the problem of acne can be solved by castration. Doxycycline or Zinerit can be used as drug treatment.
- Vasculitis. In sphinxes it appears as a rash on the skin after strong experiences. It can be triggered by a move, an exhibition, or meeting a new animal. Also, the appearance of rashes can be caused by prolonged use of antibiotics. In most cases, the activity of the process fades away after a week. If this does not happen or the cat’s condition is aggravated by the inflammatory process, then it is better to seek help from a dermatologist.
- Seasonal dermatitis. It is observed mainly in cats before and after estrus. During this period, a small rash may appear in the area of the mammary glands and groin, less often on the back and limbs. The main thing is to avoid scratching to avoid bacterial infection. Otherwise, you will have to deal with severe vasculitis and bacterial inflammation.
- Allergy. Sphynx cats are known to be prone to allergic reactions. An exacerbation can be triggered by improperly selected food, parasites, or contact with plants or chemicals. It can manifest itself acutely with the appearance of large red spots and small rashes. Severe itching can lead to excessive itching and the addition of a secondary infection, which aggravates the manifestations of allergies. For Sphynxes, it is recommended to initially select special hypoallergenic food from Royal Canin or Hills. When contacting a potential allergen, Fenistil drops are a great help. To make an accurate diagnosis, blood biochemistry and cytology from the places where the spots and rash appeared are required.
- Bites. Most often, Sphynx rashes appear after flea bites. But the bites themselves are not as bad as an allergic reaction to their saliva. In cats prone to skin vasculitis, it manifests itself acutely. Due to severe itching and constant scratching, deep wounds appear and do not have time to heal. Here you can’t do without a cytological examination, and only after confirming the diagnosis it is necessary to select drugs for treatment based on the severity of the clinical picture. As a preventive measure, it is recommended to regularly treat all animals living under the same roof with Frontline and Advantage preparations. Housing can be treated with Butox solution, which is added to the water during wet cleaning.
- Demodecosis. Or a subcutaneous mite, as people like to call it. Present on the skin of every cat. Activity can be triggered by chronic liver diseases, tumor processes, long-term use of antibiotics, and even strong emotions. In Sphynxes, demodicosis manifests itself in the form of a black rash that can be scattered throughout the body. Common locations are the bends of the limbs, tail, chin. The diagnosis can be confirmed only after cytological examination by plucking from the lesions. Single lesions can be observed, as they can resolve themselves. Treatment is given to cases where the affected area rapidly spreads throughout the body. The success of any treatment will greatly depend on the correct identification of the root cause that provoked the activity of the tick.
Prevention
- Use as little household chemicals as possible.
- Taking antihistamines.
- High quality, anti-allergic food.
- Using a flea collar.
- Serve food to the sphinx in high-quality dishes.
- Add citrus oil to flower pots.
Allergies in cats are just as serious as in people. We monitor our health and take preventive measures, so let’s also monitor our smaller brothers. Don't ignore symptoms, even if they don't seem serious to you. Today the cat is only scratching its ears, but in a couple of days it may already have otitis media. If you notice that something is wrong, take him immediately to a specialist. And most importantly, remember: “We are responsible for those we have tamed”!
It is impossible to cure dermatitis in children in one day. Ointment and cream can only relieve the external manifestations of the disease. The best remedy for food rashes is constant monitoring of the menu of mother and baby, the use of natural remedies to combat allergic reactions, preventing infection and acute skin inflammations will help overcome the disease.
Removing stains
Breeders of hairless cats should carefully follow their veterinarian's recommendations. After all, the treatment regimen is prescribed in accordance with the established type of pathology:
- allergy symptoms disappear after taking antihistamines (Metypred, Cetrin, Suprastin). If the body does not accept meat or poultry, it is recommended to switch the cat to premium food, for example, Hills or Acana. If stains appear after a walk in synthetic clothes, you just need to replace the item of clothing with items made from natural materials;
- For the treatment of skin diseases, external agents are prescribed (Sanoderm, Clotrimazole, Thermikon, Imaverol). In severe cases, antibacterial drugs are prescribed for oral administration (Ketoconazole, Griseofulvin);
- To avoid the appearance of spots on the Sphynx's skin after insect or tick bites, blood-sucking parasites should be prevented from coming into contact with the animal's body. For prevention purposes, collars, sprays, ointments, and drops are used. The effective and most popular brand in the fight against parasites is Bars;
- hormonal imbalance is corrected by sterilization and castration of the pet. If the owner does not want to deprive the sphinx of a full life, the doctor may prescribe hormonal medications, vitamins, and probiotics;
- Anti-scar ointments and creams will help get rid of scars.
Hyperpigmentation of unknown etiology will disappear if chlorhexidine is used. It is enough to wipe the problem areas with a cotton swab soaked in the solution a couple of times a day, and not a trace will remain of the stains.
Types of allergies
Skin irritation caused by various allergens is called dermatitis. Often this allergy occurs in Sphynx cats before the age of three. It can be difficult to determine the cause of the disease and eliminate the pathogen; it can be mold spores, dust, pollen, or chemicals.
It can be difficult to determine what causes food allergies in Sphynx cats. This is due to the long period between the start of taking the product and the appearance of the first symptoms. But without knowing the reason, it is difficult to help your pet. It is worth keeping in mind that upon repeated contact with the allergen, the disease develops very rapidly.
In the Sphynx, allergies to food are often caused by proteins contained in the diet; there is no need to abuse dairy products and chicken meat. You also need to take a responsible approach to choosing cat food, as it may contain harmful substances.
Everyone knows that cats love to chew on indoor plants. In addition to allergies, the juice of some colors can be poisonous to animals. It is better to limit the contact of cats with plants such as lilies, azaleas, hydrangeas, dieffenbachias and others. If it is not possible to refuse a flower in the house, then you need to place it in an inaccessible place.
Types of allergies
Dermatitis
Allergy to environmental elements. The manifestation can be noticed in sphinxes up to 3 years old. It is very insidious because it is very difficult to define, and very little is needed to occur. Anything can cause it (mold, pollen, chemicals, etc.)
Allergy to flea bites
The Sphynx has no fur and many people believe that there is no place for fleas, but this is a deep misconception. They can be inside the ears and in the armpits. Fleas can also bite after jumping from another animal. The worst thing is that some owners do not treat him at all, because they believe that their pet does not and cannot have fleas.
Allergy to food
Food allergies in sphinxes are very difficult to determine, and the allergen is excluded from the diet. It does not develop in one day, because some allergens first accumulate in the body, and then they only begin to act. It is easier to determine allergies in animals older than 1 year. But when the allergy in Sphynx cats is repeated, a minute is enough for its reaction.
Also, in Sphynxes, allergies to food and dairy products can develop throughout the year. Most often, cats are allergic to protein found in foods. Often, owners feed their pet chicken without paying attention to other protein. Some dry food manufacturers skimp on ingredients and add a lot of untested chemicals.
Ulcers
Appear on the skin, mucous membranes and oral cavity. It has clear red borders and can sometimes be painful and itchy.
Esinophilic plaque
Manifestation of eosinophilic allergic syndrome. Appears on the stomach and inner thighs. It appears as an oval red lesion.
Esinophilic granuloma
Appears on the skin, mucous membranes and oral cavity of the sphinx. Lesions can appear on any part of the body. Yellowish-pink plaques appear.
Sphynxes are allergic to flowers
All cats love to taste our flowers, but this habit can lead not only to allergies, but to death. We all urgently need to know poisonous flowers:
- Lilies. Even pollen is dangerous for sphinxes; it can cause severe allergies and kidney failure.
- Azalea. May kill the animal.
- Dieffenbachia. — Causes allergies and burns of mucous membranes.
- Gartensia. Causes allergies and intoxication.