The first step for treatment is to clip or shave the affected area. Hot spots are frequently painful and large, subsequently sedation or an anaesthetic by your vet may be required before clipping is attempted. Clipping the area will reveal how large the wound is, and will allow air in to help with healing, as hair holds moisture in. Your veterinarian may need to culture the affected skin to identify the bacteria causing the infection and help select the most appropriate antibiotic. Additionally vets may perform other tests to help determine the cause and best treatment plan.
The hot spot is then cleaned, disinfected and dried. It can be disinfected with an antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine, or a medicated shampoo. Further treatment will depend on the size of the hot spot, location, and the cause. Often antibiotics are required (either in topical, oral, or injectable form) and some medication to control the inflammation and itch such as a steroid (again in topical, oral or injectable form).
Small hot spots can sometimes be treated at home. Although caution must be taken as frequently the wounds are painful, subsequently dogs often don't like them assessed,and therefore a visit to the vet is often recommended and required. Some human topical products can also be toxic to pets when licked so if you are unsure, always ask your vet what they recommend. Furthermore, hot spots often don't resolve without treatment so best not to wait and make an appointment with your vet as soon as you notice them!
Further treatment will depend on the inciting cause; such as ear infections may require ear drops, anal gland abscesses may require surgery and medications, and parasites will require anti-parasitic treatment.
Summary of treatment steps
- Clip the area to remove hair and matting
- Clean with an antiseptic solution like chlorhexidine
- Let the area dry
- Use prescribed medication such as antibiotics (to treat the infection) and steroids (to control the inflammation and itch)
- Apply an Elizabethan collar to stop further scratching, licking and trauma being caused to the skin
- Use medicated wipes, shampoos or lotions prescribed and instructed by your vet
In many cases, once the hot spot has been clipped, cleaned, and medication started, it should resolve quite quickly within a few days to a week.
