Treating Pyoderma in Dogs and Cats

Since it is a bacterial infection, treatment of most types of pyoderma require a course of antibiotics. However, since pyoderma is usually a secondary condition that results from symptoms related to another problem, it’s important to diagnose and treat the original illness or condition while simultaneously clearing up the infection. Otherwise, your dog or cat may end up with a recurrent case of pyoderma that can become increasingly difficult to manage.

Antibiotic Treatments

An oral antibiotic such as Cefa-Drops may be prescribed, especially for cases of deep pyoderma. Veterinarians may need to do a bacterial culture and antibiotic sensitivity test to determine which type of antibiotic to use with your pet.  Deep pyodermas usually require at least four to six weeks of treatment.

In cases of surface or superficial pyoderma, veterinarians may only have you apply an antibiotic cream, like Clavamox for dogs and cats, several times a day. You will need to continue treatment for at least three weeks or for a minimum of one week after all symptoms have cleared up.

Whatever the prescribed course is, you need to be sure you follow your veterinarian’s directions and finish the cycle of antibiotics as prescribed. Stopping the medication before your pet has finished the course may lead to antibiotic resistance and recurrence that cannot be treated with the same medication.

Other Ways to Manage Symptoms

While medication (like Clavamox) is most often needed to cure the infection, other steps may need to be taken to offer your pet immediate relief from the pain and discomfort of pyoderma. You may want to clip the hair around any lesions and irritated skin. Depending on the type of sore or pustule, you might clean the area with medicated soap, wash your pet regularly with a high-quality shampoo such as Etiderm, or soak the area in warm water or possibly a saline solution. Some pyoderma conditions will clear up with time. Acne, for instances will usually stop recurring once your pet matures.

Never squeeze pustules or blisters. Doing so can cause the infection to spread and cause your pet more discomfort. If an infected boil or other skin problem seems to be causing your pet excessive pain, see your veterinarian. In some instances, these may need to be lanced and drained, but you should never do this on your own since treating the problem wrong could lead to other complications.

This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by, your veterinarian with respect to your pet. It has, however, been verified by a licensed veterinarian for accuracy.