Fur Discoloration & Staining

Have you ever noticed red or brown coloration around your pets eyes, ears, mouth, feet, and other places? Do you ever wonder what it is or where it comes from? The real burning question once its noticed is- How do I get rid if this?! As with anything please consult your vet for any and all questions or concerns, no question is ever to silly! Your veterinarian can make sure the coloration isn’t bacterial or fungal related and treat it before any recommendations be made to treat the discoloration. Some things to look out for with this is brown fur staining, as this can be primarily caused by infection by a yeast called Malassezia- the same yeast that is responsible for skin and ears infections in dogs.

Fur staining is caused by Porphyrins, which are iron containing molecules produced as the body breaks down red blood cells. These porphyrins are then excreted mainly through feces, but are also present in tears, saliva, and urine. This helps explain some of the common patterning of discoloration on dogs such as by their eyes from tears, or from licking in areas such as their genitals, feet, legs, and other easily reached areas. While its easier to notice this discoloration on white dogs it can be seen in any breed, color, and areas. Other dogs licking each other can also spread this coloration from one another to new and different areas. Its also possible your pet may have underlying conditions making the issue more noticeable like chronic eye infections, blocked tear ducts, or even dental issues causing excessive salivation. Dogs with seasonal allergies may lick their paws and legs, staining the fur red. Excessive licking and moisture in the fur can develop yeast infections, so its best to stop your pet in their track when you see these behaviors. You can use things like bitter apple spray in recommended safe areas to prevent licking safely by making the area taste bad, some people use this product to prevent pets from licking incisions or wounds so it can be used to prevent other pets in the house from licking each other as well. Thankfully the discoloration itself causes no harm to your pets, however it may be a symptom of something underlying

There are some home remedies out there on the internet like with any problem these days, but do know some can carry risks. Wiping the areas with a warm cloth to remove eye debris can help prevent the coloration. Some can be caused by something as simple as their drinking water! Plastic bowls can harbor bacteria that cause coloration, as well as hard water with lots of iron. If it can leave rust stains on your tubs and sinks it can stain your pets fur, which can be prevented by giving them bottled or filtered water. Another thing that can help prevent the staining is plain yogurt with their food, or facewashes and shampoos containing blueberry! There are a lot of products that help with whitening but all of these remedies will take time to break down the damage that was done. Unfortunately theres not really a bleach for dogs like there is people if you have a hair uh-oh! hope this helps a little bit! Thanks for reading- your friends at Garver Grooming