What is pyoderma?
Pyoderma is defined as a bacterial skin infection. Pyoderma may also be referred to as impetigo, especially in young puppies.
What are the clinical signs of pyoderma?
signs include
Pyoderma in cats is less common, but typically shows up as
Rash and redness on the skin
Scaling and crusting of the skin- rough, dry patches on your cat's coat
Crusted and eroded papules- small, raised bumps
Itching and Hair loss
Foul odor goes hand-in-hand with pyoderma
Conventional Treatment
Antibiotics for 3-6 weeks, (Cephalexin)
Topical antibacterial shampoo (ie chlorhexidine)
Control the underlying allergy- this may involve steroids, Apoquel etc...
Alternative Options
Homemade Shampoo
-1 cup of black/green tea
2 tablespoons ACV
40 drops of Tea Tree Oil (not for cats)
2 tablespoons of Castile Soap
Honey
It has some well documented antibacterial properties, especially in relation to pyoderma. It can be applied topically, as well as given orally at doses of 1/2 teaspoon/10lbs twice daily.
Dark, unpasteurized honey is best.
Propolis.
Also known as Bee Glue as it reinforces the bee hive, and it has studies showing it to be particularly helpful for the bacteria causing skin infection. It can be sprayed on topically, as well as given orally.
It's very safe, and really a great product for you to consider. Plus you can spray it on topically and it's not all sticky like honey. I have used the oral capsules with good success. Oral doses of 100mg/10lbs daily.
Coconut Oil
It Can Kill Harmful Microorganisms
The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil have antimicrobial properties that can help protect against harmful microorganisms.
This is especially important for skin health, as many types of skin infections, including acne, cellulitis, folliculitis and athlete’s foot, are caused by bacteria or fungi.
Quercetin
Yes the impressive flavonoid found in apple peel is also being studied for its antibacterial activity, as well as it as it's proven anti-allergy activity. We have a very effective anti-itch Quercetin supplement here: Dr Jones' BIOAVAILABLE Quercetin
Essential Fatty Acids.
The anti-inflammatory fatty acids of EPA and DHA are considered foundationally for any pet with skin disease- hundreds of studies back this up. Our Krill oil supplement may be a better option than most Fish Oil supplements as it is toxin free- many of the fish oil supplements are heavily contaminated. Our 25% OFF supplement is here: Dr Jones' ULTIMATE Omega 3 Formula
Licorice Root Extract
This is considered the 'natural' corticosteroid as it can QUICKLY stop your pet from itching. I have seen some great results using Licorice Root Extract. Get our alcohol free Licorice Extract here: Dr Jones' Licorice Root Extract
Probiotics
These are the good bacteria, and multiple studies are now showing how they can modulate the inflammatory response seen in allergy. One study in particular showed that a high CFU, multi-strain Probiotic Formula with many of the same strains we have showed a marked decrease in level of skin inflammation. IF you have a pet with allergies, these are worth trying for 4 weeks to assess the results. Get our awesome Probiotic supplement here: Dr Jones' ULTIMATE Probiotic Formula
Cannabinoids
The non-psychoactive components of the cannabis plant, especially CBD, are well studied anti-inflammatories, and they are helping many a pet with allergic skin disease, and secondary skin infections. They also have some anti-bacterial properties. My brother's dog Angus has allergies, and these have made a BIG difference. Get our Pet specific CBD here: Dr Jones' ULTIMATE CBD
95% Curcumin
This is the active ingredient found in turmeric, and shown to possess some very strong anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. The problem is to ensure that it gets absorbed to be active. Our supplement in particular is formulated to be better absorbed with nutrients added increasing results. It can help decrease skin inflammation. Our High Absorption supplement is here: Dr Jones' HIGH ABSORPTION 95% Curcumin
Coconut Based Shampoo
Coconut oil has some wonderful anti-bacterial, and skin healing properties, making it ideal for any dog or cat with allergic skin disease. We have an All Natural Coconut oil based shampoo that has worked very well for many an allergic pet, PLUS it comes without all those nasty ingredients in most other Pet Shampoos. Get your skin healing holistic shampoo here for 25% OFF here: Dr Jones' 5 in 1 Pet Wash
Anti-inflammatory Skin Cream
There are many natural ingredients to decrease skin inflammation including coconut oil, shea butter, beeswax, safflower oil (restores the skin barrier)- Our new anti-inflammatory skin cream contains all these ingredients, and it has really helped my dog's chronic nose condition! Our new topical Skin Relief Balm is here: Dr Jones' Skin Relief Balm
