Dogs and cats, goats, horses, wild animals and humans develop a disease in which areas of the skin become discolored. The trigger mechanism for the appearance of pathology is stressful situations. It is mainly adult animals that are affected. The anomaly does not harm the health of the animals and is considered a cosmetic defect.
Causes and Symptoms
The exact cause of vitiligo has not been established. An autoimmune etiology of the abnormality, in which immunocompetent cells destroy melanin pigment, resulting in discoloration of the skin and coat, is not ruled out, but also not confirmed. A theory is being discussed that endotoxins are synthesized in the intestines for some unknown reason, they penetrate the skin and destroy melanin.
Dogs develop multiple or single discolored spots, mostly on the head. Along the edges of the depigmented area is an intensely colored area.
The black cat gradually becomes more colorful and turns into a white cat, or stays with a bizarre combination of the two colors.
Dog and cat lovers believe that vitiligo does not harm the health of pets. However, in some situations, photosensitivity develops. Under the influence of sunlight on depigmented areas with thinning hair, a burn occurs, like an overheated white-skinned hostess on the beach. Pets are not allowed outside and burnt areas are lubricated with ointment or healing cream.
Treatment and prevention
If the cause of vitiligo is a genetic predisposition, no treatment will help. However, if the discoloration is due to stress or intoxication, you can try to restore the color with the following dietary supplements and after consulting a veterinarian:
- Farmavit-Neo;
- Laveta great.
Self-administration of supplements can lead to hypervitaminosis. Prevention consists of excluding discolored animals from breeding. To avoid stressful situations, sedatives are used.
This article is merely informative, at Petsfeed.co we do not have the power to prescribe veterinary treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to take your pet to the vet in the event that it presents any type of condition or discomfort.
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