Helping itchy, uncomfortable pets find real relief with tailored, long-term solutions.
Skin and ear conditions are one of the most common reasons pets visit the vet.
At The Village Vet, we understand how frustrating ongoing itching, ear infections, and skin flare-ups can be, both for pets and their owners.
If left untreated, these conditions can lead to:
- chronic infections
- ongoing discomfort
- behavioural changes due to irritation
Our team focuses on identifying the underlying cause, not just treating symptoms, so your pet can achieve long-term comfort and relief.
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Why is my dog or cat so itchy?
Persistent itching (pruritus) is one of the most common concerns we see.
The most frequent causes include:
- allergies (flea, food, or environmental)
- infections (bacterial or yeast)
- parasites (fleas, ticks and mites ect)
- underlying medical conditions
Even if you can’t see fleas, they are still one of the most common triggers.
Common skin and ear conditions in pets
We regularly diagnose and manage:
- Itching & scratching (pruritus)
- Ear infections (otitis)
- Hair loss (alopecia)
- Red, inflamed, or irritated skin
- Recurrent skin infections
- Lumps and swellings
For many pets, these issues are linked to allergies and can become ongoing without proper management.
What causes skin and ear problems in pets?
Flea allergies (flea bite hypersensitivity)
Some pets have an extreme reaction to flea bites. Even a single bite can trigger intense itching.
Environmental allergies (atopic dermatitis)
Triggered by:
- pollen
- grasses
- dust mites
- mould
These often cause chronic itching, licking, and recurrent ear infections.
Food allergies
Pets can develop sensitivities to ingredients they’ve eaten for years.
This can lead to:
- ongoing itching
- skin inflammation
- repeated ear infections
Bacterial and yeast infections
Often develop secondary to allergies and worsen irritation and discomfort.
Parasites (mites, fleas)
Can cause severe itching and require targeted treatment.
Hormonal conditions
Conditions such as thyroid disease can affect skin and coat health.
How we diagnose skin and ear conditions
At The Village Vet, we take a structured, step-by-step approach to find the root cause.
In-clinic testing
- Skin and ear swabs
- Cytology (cell analysis)
- Skin scrapings and microscopy
- Flea and parasite checks
- Wood’s lamp testing (for fungal infections)
Therapeutic trials
If needed, we may use:
- Flea treatment trials
- Food elimination trials
These help rule out common underlying causes.
How we treat skin and ear disease
Treatment is always tailored to your pet.
Depending on the cause, this may include:
Medications and topical treatments
- anti-inflammatories
- antibiotics or antifungals
- medicated washes or ear treatments
Allergy management
For ongoing conditions, we may recommend:
- allergy testing
- immunotherapy
- long-term management plans
Diet and nutrition
For suspected food allergies, we may use:
- elimination diets
- prescription diets
- supplements
A long-term approach to itchy pets
Many skin conditions, especially allergies, are ongoing.
Our goal is not just to treat flare-ups, but to:
- reduce frequency and severity
- keep your pet comfortable
- improve quality of life long-term
When should you see a vet?
If your pet:
- is constantly scratching or licking
- has red or irritated skin
- has recurring ear infections
- smells or has discharge from the ears
It’s worth getting them checked early
Early diagnosis makes treatment much easier and more effective.
Book NowThe Village Vet
At The Village Vet Clinics, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality vet services. Throughout all stages of your pet’s life, our compassionate and experienced team ensures your pet receives the best possible care. With cutting-edge equipment and a full range of facilities under one roof, you can trust us to offer expert recommendations and treatments tailored to your pet’s unique needs, no matter what your financial circumstances are. We strive to help your beloved pets live life to the fullest.
Book your appointmentWhy Choose us as your Vet?
Truly personal, Non-corporate care
Independent, family-owned, and community-driven. No corporate agendas. Just honest, personalised care tailored to each family’s individual needs and budget.
State of the art facilities
Advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical technology, in-house labs, and everything you’d expect from a much larger hospital. All delivered with genuine warmth and personal attention.
Fear Free-Inspired Care & Certified Calm Clinic
Every visit is designed to minimise stress and anxiety. Purpose built clinic designs, gentle handling, calming techniques, and a team trained in low-stress care makes all the difference.
Award winning
Three time Local Business Award winners and recognised as one of Australia’s Top 3 veterinary practices in 2025 & 2026. Our reputation is built on trust, consistency, and authentic client relationships.
What Pet Owners Say
Marisa
We love the whole team at West Pymble village vet, they have been looking after us for the past 5 years and always go above and beyond. Elle and the team took such beautiful care of our dog recently. I especially appreciated their communication and updates throughout his care. They’re the absolute best. Thank you!
Coralie Schofield
Since we got a puppy 3.5yrs ago we have always visited the Village Vet. We really appreciate the genuine care, the follow up after an incident/illness & being able to pay the gap only is a bonus. The staff from reception to nurses and vets can’t be faulted for their individual interest, care, professionalism and knowledge. Thank you all.
Cassie Hatton
My first time visiting the Killara Village Vet was nothing short of outstanding. They booked us in no worries, the care was outstanding, and the team were so friendly. After an average visit to a different vet (24hr one) I’m so so happy we went here!
Shelley
Great vet. Friendly knowledgable staff. Good response times.
David Bannister
This team is so personable and genuinely caring. You are in tremendous hands at the Village Vet
Roger Mortimer
We recently moved our Ollie to the Village Vet Killara and were very impressed with how quickly Dr Belle helped Ollie with his skin challenges. We found Belle to be very caring and professional and focussed on solving Ollie’s ailments. We highly recommend Dr Belle and the Village Vet.
Terry Hou
The amazing Dr. Belle has saved our cat’s life. We actually got turned away from a different vet because we were late to our appointment (we were late… but it was also work traffic) and she was close to death. We waited a day and luckily brought Ulla to see Dr. Belle who immediately understood the severity of the situation and pushed for her admission to hospital. Since then she’s been with us every step of Ulla’s recovery. And it was clear by then that Ulla has been better treated and more cared for than I’ve ever been. I’d recommend the Village Vet Killara even if you didn’t have a pet.
10/10 Service. Wonderful people.
Sherry Shekari
A wonderful experience from start to finish. Martine was so kind, patient, and knowledgeable, giving me lots of helpful advice about keeping my cat, Zebel healthy. She made both of us feel completely at ease. The receptionist was lovely, and the little freebies for Zebel were such a thoughtful touch. Highly recommend this clinic to anyone looking for caring and professional veterinary care! 🐾
Bronwyn
The staff were very caring, listened to my concerns about Oreo, and provided thorough information about his condition during his stay. I felt so reassured knowing he was receiving great care.
Jennifer Horne
We have been seeing Dr Martine and her team for over 10 years and would never go anywhere else. The wealth of knowledge the team has regarding diseases, diagnoses, treatment and treatment options, and prevention is second to none. The professionalism of the entire team, mixed with genuine care and affection for not only the patient but also the patient’s owners is present at every consultation. Knowing also that the latest medical equipment for diagnosis and treatment is on hand is very reassuring. Finally the monthly newsletter is a wealth of information and often a pertinent reminder of seasonal health issues such as tick season. If you are looking for a caring, highly skilled and extremely knowledgeable vet team look no further than The Village Vet.
Sarah Bost
I cannot recommend The Village Vet enough for anyone looking for a caring, professional, and trustworthy place for their pets.
They have been looking after my puppies so beautifully, and every visit has been such a positive experience. The environment is very warm, calm, clean, and welcoming, and all the staff are incredibly friendly, kind, and professional.
From the moment you walk in, you feel comfortable and confident that your pets are in safe hands. They genuinely care about animals and take the time to communicate properly, answer questions, and provide support whenever needed.
I also really appreciate their helpful reminders, follow-ups, newsletters, and updates, which show how organised and caring they are with pet care and customer service.
Thank you to the whole team for always making Dela and Dora feel loved and well looked after. Highly recommended!
Nina
The team at The Village Vet Killara has been exceptional for our dog, Kona. They’re welcoming, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable. We always feel confident knowing he’s in the best hands!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Skin & Ear Disease Care for Dogs and Cats
Pets with flea allergy dermatitis can react to even a single flea bite. This means they can be extremely itchy even if fleas aren’t visible.
Yes. Food allergies can cause chronic itching, rashes, and recurrent ear infections. A food trial is often needed to confirm this.
Signs include:
- head shaking or tilting
- scratching at the ears
- redness or swelling
- strong smell or discharge
Ear infections often have an underlying cause, so proper diagnosis is important.
Recurring ear infections are often linked to allergies or yeast overgrowth. Treating the underlying cause is key to preventing recurrence.
Most allergies are lifelong, but they can be managed very effectively with the right plan.
The best treatment depends on the cause. This may include medication, parasite control, diet changes, or long-term allergy management.
If itching is persistent, worsening, or causing skin damage, it’s best to have your pet assessed early.
Book Your Pet’s Skin & Ear Disease Care for Dogs and Cats Appointment
If your pet is itchy, scratching, or suffering from ear infections, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Schedule a skin & ear consultation with The Village Vet today!
📅 Book online here or call us to secure an appointment:
📍 Pymble Clinic: 9499 4010
📍 Killara Hospital: 8350 5678
