Are you noticing signs of a possible yeast infection in your beloved pup? While veterinary care is always recommended for any medical conditions, several home remedies can be used to treat your dog’s yeast infection if the symptoms are mild.
Read on for more information about how to effectively and safely treat your pup’s yeast infection at home.
What Is Yeast Infection in Dogs?
Yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is a fungal skin condition that affects dogs. It typically occurs when the balance of microorganisms on and inside the skin is out of balance, allowing yeast to grow and cause an infection. Symptoms include:
- itchy
- flaky skin
- a musty odor
- redness
- greasy patches
Treatment will depend on the cause and severity of the infection but may include dietary changes, antifungal medications or shampoos, and topical treatments.
Causes of Yeast Infections in Dogs
Yeast infections can be caused by allergies, weak immune systems, hormone imbalances, and certain medications. In some cases, the infection may be caused by an underlying medical condition or poor hygiene. Other common causes include:
Allergies: Dogs who are prone to allergies may be more susceptible to developing yeast infections due to their weakened immune systems. Treatment can include antihistamines, dietary changes, and avoiding allergens.
Poor diet: An insufficient diet may lead to nutrient deficiencies that weaken a dog’s natural defenses against infection. Your pet must have a balanced diet full of healthy proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
Hormonal imbalances: Hormone imbalances such as Cushing’s disease can cause the overgrowth of yeast on the skin or other areas of the body. Treatment typically includes medications or supplements that help balance hormones.
Medication use: Many medications, including antibiotics and steroids, can disrupt the balance of microorganisms on and inside the skin, leading to yeast overgrowth.
If this occurs, it is important to discuss any changes in medication with your vet before continuing treatment at home.
Poor hygiene: Not bathing your pet regularly or not cleaning wounds thoroughly can lead to an accumulation of moisture on their skin which can cause a yeast infection if left unchecked.
Regularly washing your pet and cleaning any open wounds with antiseptic wash will help prevent infection from occurring in the first place!
Contaminated objects/surfaces: If you’re using contaminated objects or surfaces for grooming purposes (e.g., combs, towels), chances are they may be carrying opportunistic fungi like Candida albicans which may lead to a yeast infection in dogs if not handled properly or discarded after one-time use.
Be sure to disinfect items used for grooming regularly and discard them appropriately if they are only intended for one-time use!
Home Remedies
Yeast infection in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor diet, allergies, or an imbalance of bacteria levels in the skin and gut. While yeast infections can be uncomfortable for your pet and may require a vet visit for proper diagnosis and treatment.
There are also home remedies that you can use to provide some relief from the symptoms your dog may be experiencing.
Diet
A balanced diet is one of the most important aspects of addressing a yeast infection in your pet. Foods that are high in carbohydrates and processed sugars should be avoided, as well as soy-based ingredients.
Instead, opt for fresh vegetables and proteins such as lean cuts of raw meat or fish. You should also add whole grains like oatmeal or brown rice to your pet’s meals several times a week.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is believed to contain antifungal properties that can help address yeast infection symptoms in dogs. Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of the vinegar to 1 cup (240 ml) of water and place it in a spray bottle.
Spray this solution on your dog’s fur twice daily and allow it to air dry before brushing through its coat thoroughly with a soft brush.
Yogurt
Adding plain yogurt to your pet’s diet is another way to help fight yeast infections naturally. The probiotics found in yogurt will help balance out the levels of bacteria in the gut lining that can contribute to yeast overgrowth when unbalanced. Yogurt should always be given plain without any added sugar or flavoring as these are counterproductive for treating the infection.
Start slowly with about ¼ cup (30 g) per day divided up into two servings before gradually increasing this amount each week until you reach about ½ cup (60 g).
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has been known to soothe skin irritation and reduce inflammation caused by yeast infections in pets such as dogs or cats when applied topically several times a day over affected areas covered with fur or feathers.
Warm-up 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) slightly before making contact with your pet’s skin if they tend to shy away from it being cold or too hard on contact.
When to Visit a Vet for Yeast Infections In Dogs
If you notice the following symptoms in your dog, it may be time to visit a vet:
- Persistent redness and itching of the skin
- Unpleasant odor coming from the affected area
- Intense scratching or biting at the skin
- Pustules or sores on the skin that are unresponsive to home treatment
- Hair loss around the affected area
It is also advisable to see a vet if home treatments are not successful after one week. Your vet will be able to diagnose and provide appropriate treatment based on the severity and the underlying cause(s) of the infection.
In conclusion
Yeast infections in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor diet and hygiene, allergies, and hormonal imbalances. While veterinary care is always recommended for any medical conditions. But, several home remedies such as dietary changes, antifungal medications, and topical treatments can be used to treat your pup’s yeast infection if the symptoms are mild.
Keep in mind that any home remedies must be used with caution, as they can sometimes cause more harm than good when misused. If you suspect that your dog may have a yeast infection, it is best to consult a vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
By taking the necessary precautions and using the right home remedies, you can help your pup get back to feeling better in no time!
