Symptom: Itchy Skin – Why does my pet have itchy skin?
What does itchy skin look like in a pet?
Licking, biting, chewing, or scratching themselves repetitively
Rubbing their face or ears along furniture or the floor
Pawing at their ears, or shaking their head repeatedly
Recurrent ear infections, with odour, discharge, and redness
Losing hair anywhere on their body, along with active scratching/grooming
Chewing or licking their feet, red toes, brown-stained fur on paws and are wet from licking paws repeatedly
Thickened skin
Skin/fur odour may be present, which is often yeasty
Red skin
Hot spots: patches of the skin that are very wet and inflamed, and often have a yellow discharge and scabs
Scabbing where a pet has been excessively licking, scratching, or chewing
Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published October 2025 | Review date October 2028 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
Frequently asked questions
What are the common reasons for itchy skin?
There are several common causes of itching in dogs and cats, including:
- Allergies are one of the most common reasons that you may have itchy pets, and there are a few different types, including allergies to pollen, foods or insect bites.
- Fleas and other parasites such as mites
- Bacterial skin infections
- Auto-immune disorders
DO’s – What can I do at home if my pet has itchy skin?
- Grooming: regular brushing helps remove loose skin and debris, promoting better air circulation and aiding in the prevention of mats and tangles. If your pet’s skin is sore or damaged, then you should not do this until it is resolved.
- Bathing using a veterinary-recommended shampoo.
- Dietary supplements: omega-3 essential fatty acid supplements may help improve skin health and reduce inflammation.
- Parasite prevention: ensure your pet is on a regular flea and tick prevention regimen.
More reading: Fleas on Cats, Fleas on Dogs, What are Ticks
- Keep your pet’s environment clean: regularly clean your pet's bedding and living areas to minimise allergens and irritants.
- Intermittent or ongoing treatment with veterinary medications may be required, as advised by your vet.
DON'Ts - What I shouldn't do at home if my pet has itchy skin?
- Don't over-bathe your pet: frequent bathing can dry out the skin, exacerbating itching. Dogs should be bathed as little as possible, such as once a month or less, especially for dogs with sensitive skin, unless using a vet-recommended product.
- Avoid shampoos with harsh chemicals or fragrances, as they can irritate the skin.
- Don’t self-treat: Don’t use over-the-counter medications and do not delay seeking veterinary advice for persistent or severe itching.
When should I consider taking my pet to the vet if they have itchy skin?
- Excessive scratching/licking/biting
- Hair loss
- Redness or irritation
- Odour
- Wounds or open sores
- Persistent Itchiness
My pet has itchy skin. When is it an emergency?
If there are signs of anaphylaxis (collapse, rapid breathing, pale gums), or severe self-injury such as open wounds, bleeding, pus or black smelly skin.