Hot Spots in Dogs and Cats: Causes, Treatment, and When to See a Veterinarian

Hot spots are one of the most common skin conditions veterinarians treat in dogs, especially during LA's hot summer months. Also known as acute moist dermatitis, hot spots can develop within hours and become painful very quickly. While dogs are affected much more frequently than cats, either species can develop these inflamed skin lesions when excessive licking, scratching, or chewing damages the skin.

For pet owners throughout Southern California, allergies, fleas, dry weather, and year-round outdoor activities can all contribute to hot spots. Fortunately, prompt veterinary treatment can relieve your pet's discomfort and help prevent the infection from spreading.

What Is a Hot Spot?

A hot spot is a localized area of inflamed, infected skin caused by repeated licking, chewing, scratching, or rubbing. Once the skin barrier is damaged, bacteria that normally live on the skin multiply rapidly, resulting in redness, moisture, pain, and infection. Hot spots commonly develop on the:

• Face and cheeks

• Neck

• Around the ears

• Chest

• Hips

• Legs

• Base of the tail

Without treatment, they can enlarge dramatically within 24 to 48 hours.

Common Causes of Hot Spots in Southern California Pets

Hot spots are usually triggered by another medical problem rather than occurring on their own. Common underlying causes include:

• Flea allergies

• Tick bites

• Environmental allergies from grasses, weeds, pollen, and dust

• Food allergies

• Ear infections

• Skin infections

• Matted or damp fur after swimming or bathing

• Insect bites

• Minor wounds or abrasions

• Anxiety or boredom that leads to excessive licking

In Southern California, pets may experience allergy symptoms throughout much of the year due to the mild climate. Fleas also remain active year-round, making consistent parasite prevention especially important.

Dogs with thick or double coats—including Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Saint Bernards—are particularly susceptible because moisture and heat can become trapped beneath the fur.

Signs Your Pet May Have a Hot Spot

Hot spots often appear suddenly and worsen quickly. Watch for:

• A red, moist patch of skin

• Hair loss around the lesion

• Constant licking, chewing, or scratching

• Pain when touched

• Oozing or crusting

• A foul odor

• Swelling

• Restlessness or decreased activity

Because these lesions can become infected rapidly, early veterinary evaluation is recommended.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Hot Spots

A veterinarian will perform a complete physical examination and evaluate both the skin lesion and any underlying conditions that may have caused it. Diagnostic testing may include:

• Skin cytology to identify bacteria or yeast

• Flea comb examination

• Skin scraping to check for mites

• Ear examination

• Allergy assessment

• Additional laboratory testing if recurrent skin disease is present

Identifying the underlying cause is the best way to reduce the chance of future hot spots.

Treatment for Hot Spots in Dogs and Cats

Treatment focuses on relieving discomfort, eliminating infection, and stopping the self-trauma that prevents healing. Depending on the severity of the lesion, treatment may include:

• Clipping the hair around the affected area

• Cleaning the skin with an antiseptic solution

• Topical antibiotic and anti-inflammatory medications

• Oral antibiotics for deeper skin infections

• Anti-itch medications to reduce scratching

• Pain medication when appropriate

• Flea treatment or allergy management

• Treatment for ear infections or other underlying conditions

Many pets also benefit from wearing an Elizabethan collar (cone or e-collar) to prevent licking while the skin heals.

With prompt treatment, most uncomplicated hot spots begin improving within several days and heal completely within one to two weeks.

How to Help Prevent Hot Spots

Preventing hot spots starts with addressing the conditions that cause excessive itching. You can help protect your pet by:

• Keeping your dog or cat on year-round flea and tick prevention

• Managing seasonal allergies with your veterinarian

• Drying your pet thoroughly after swimming or bathing

• Brushing regularly to remove loose hair and prevent matting

• Treating ear infections promptly

• Feeding a balanced diet that supports healthy skin

• Providing regular exercise and enrichment to reduce stress-related licking

• Scheduling routine veterinary wellness exams

When Should You Seek Veterinary Care?

Because hot spots can spread rapidly and become extremely painful, it's best not to wait. Schedule an examination if your pet has:

• A rapidly growing red or moist skin lesion

• Persistent licking or scratching

• Bleeding, discharge, or foul odor

• Swelling or significant pain

• Multiple skin lesions

• Fever, lethargy, or decreased appetite

Early treatment often results in faster healing and prevents more serious skin infections.

Frequently Asked Questions for Pet Owners

Can hot spots heal without veterinary treatment?

Small hot spots occasionally improve if the underlying irritation stops, but many become infected and worsen quickly. Veterinary treatment usually shortens healing time and helps prevent complications.

Are hot spots contagious?

No. Hot spots themselves are not contagious to people or other pets. However, the underlying cause—such as fleas or certain parasites—may affect other animals in the household.

Can cats get hot spots?

Yes. Although less common than in dogs, cats can develop hot spots due to allergies, flea infestations, skin infections, overgrooming, or pain.

How can I prevent hot spots during Southern California's warmer months?

Maintain consistent flea prevention, keep your pet clean and dry after swimming, manage seasonal allergies early, groom regularly, and schedule veterinary care promptly if you notice excessive scratching or licking.

Compassionate Skin Care for Dogs and Cats

Hot spots can progress from a small irritation to a painful skin infection in just a day or two. The good news is that early diagnosis and treatment typically provide rapid relief and help prevent recurrence. If your dog or cat develops a red, moist, or painful area of skin, don't delay seeking veterinary care. Prompt treatment can get your pet back to feeling comfortable while addressing the underlying cause of the problem.

Concerned about Your Pet’s Itchy or Sore Skin? 

Schedule an appointment with your primary care veterinarian or visit our Burbank or Koreatown location if your pet has concerning symptoms. 

Call us at (818) 296-0700 in Burbank or (323) 302-5200 in Koreatown to speak with a member of our care team. We’re here to help for your furry loved one’s medical needs!