Why is my dog constantly scratching? Is it dry skin or allergies?

Question

This subject seems to be much discussed but I am going to phrase it differently: Buddy is grooming constantly or about 80% of the time he is awake. He also jumps out of a sleep and scratches. The frequency and intensity is new. I don't believe there is a parasitic infection. Could this be simply dry skin? Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 15 lbs

Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA · Accepted Answer

Possibly, but dry skin isn't usually intensely itchy. Many causes of itching or overgrooming are caused by parasites, such as fleas. If Buddy isn't on a good quality monthly flea preventative, that is a good starting point. Other possible causes are anxiety, food allergies or other allergies, ear mites, bladder inflammation, etc. Here is a good article that discusses causes of overgrooming: https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952646

Why is my dog constantly scratching? Is it dry skin or allergies?

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