Craniomandibular Osteopathy in Dogs and Cats

Craniomandibular osteopathy

A chronic, itchy skin condition triggered by an allergic reaction to substances in the environment, such as pollen, dust mites, and mold spores. It’s the second most common allergic skin disease in dogs, after flea allergy dermatitis, and also occurs in cats, though somewhat less frequently.

Symptoms

Persistent itching, licking, or chewing, especially of the face, ears, paws, armpits, and abdomen
Redness and inflammation of the skin
Hair loss from repeated scratching or licking
Brownish discoloration of fur from saliva staining in chronically licked areas
Recurrent skin or ear infections as a secondary complication
Symptoms may be seasonal at first before becoming year-round

Causes

A genetic predisposition to developing an exaggerated immune response to environmental allergens
A defective skin barrier that allows allergens to penetrate more easily
More common in certain breeds, including Terriers, Retrievers, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, and Dalmatians in dogs
Typically first appears between 6 months and 3 years of age in dogs; onset in cats is usually before 5 years

Treatments

No cure; it’s a lifelong condition managed rather than resolved
Allergen-specific immunotherapy (allergy injections or sublingual drops), the closest thing to a long-term solution
Medications to control itching and inflammation, including targeted itch-blocking drugs, antihistamines, and corticosteroids
Essential fatty acid supplements to support skin barrier health
Identifying and reducing exposure to specific allergens where possible

This condition is common in the following Dogs & Cats

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