Malassezia Infections in Cats
Yeast that is known as malassezia pachydermatis is found on the skins of cats. Malassessezia usually does not cause a problem in the animal but sometimes this yeast grows and reproduces in numbers that are not normal. Malassezia is yeast that causes dandruff. Malassezia requires fat to grow so it can commonly show up on the face, the upper body and the scalp. If the Malassezia, which is considered a fungus, grows out of control, the skin renewal process is disturbed. Dandruff and itchy skin become present. Malassezia is found in cats throughout the U.S. It is not a problem in cats that are healthy. The fungus is usually found in miniscule numbers on its skin. Malassezia can be found in the ear canal, vagina or rectum of the animal. Fortunately Malassezia in cats is not a common as it is in dogs. If a cat has any hereditary or infectious diseases, the skins immune system will be weakened and this will allow a Malassezia infection to start. Animals that have bacterial infections or allergies and have irritated skin are susceptible to a Malassezia infection. If a cat has a Malassezia infection, the cat would suffer from hair loss, chin acne and redness. A Malassezia infection should be diagnosed by positively identifying the organism under a microscope. A lesion can be scraped or swabbed to get a sample.
All of the infections have a huge amount of yeast present. This confirms that a Malassezia infection is present. The taking of a lab culture can be performed in order to identify the organism. Since Malassazia is present in healthy animals, it can be doubtful the Malassezia is causing some symptoms in cats. This is why a correct diagnosis can be confirmed after a response to treatment. To treat a cat with a Malzssezia infection there are a few solutions available. In order to find a long-term solution to Malassezia, the underlying cause needs to be treated properly. This underlying cause could be a bacterial infection or allergy. When the underlying cause is indentified, treatment can begin. To correct Malassezia, the environment of the skin has to change. This means lipids that are on the skin should be removed. Medical shampoos and shampoos that contain benzoyl peroxide can be used. Even human shampoos that contain ketoconazole can be used on your cat. If you cat has a severe case of Malassezia or if the fungus is resisting topical treatment oral ketoconazole can be given over the course of several weeks. Within two weeks, a response can be seen. Therapy should however, continue for about five more weeks. Oral anti-funal drugs are effective but because of some probable side effects and considering how expense they can be always make sure these products are used according to what a veterinarian instructs. As with adult dandruff, there are some home remedies that can help alleviate cat dandruff caused by Malassezia. If the air in your home is dry, your skin will usually feel dry. Your cat’s skin may feel tight and dry as well. Using a humidifier will alleviate the dry skin. Also, check your feline’s skin for parasites. Flea bites, lice and mites can cause an allergic reaction that can lead to dandruff. Skin parasites are easily treated but you may have to treat any other pets, the house and maybe the other people in the home. Cats that are outside a great deal of the time can get sunburn on their ears, eyelids or lips. Any place where there is little hair is susceptible to sunburn. Sunburn causes the top layer of skin to die so it dries up and flakes. Make sure cats, especially those with thin or white coats are kept inside for a large part of the day, usually from about ten in the morning to about three in the afternoon. Malassezia is common and found on most felines and is always associated with hair loss. If your feline friend is suffering from hair lost and does not seem to be responding to conventional treatments, have a veterinarian check your pet. |
