Vitiligo – Color Changing Cats and Dogs

Photo Courtesy of: www.instagram.com/elli.vitiligo/

Vitiligo is a disease that causes the loss of skin pigmentation.  It can also cause hair to lose color.  While vitiligo only affects about 2% of the world’s human population, did you know it can also occur in cats and dogs?

Background

The skin contains melanocytes, a type of cell that produces melanin (the pigment that colors the skin). Vitiligo occurs when melanocytes are destroyed.  As the melanocytes die, the affected area of the skin and the associated fur will turn white. 

There are three main types of vitiligo:

• Focal vitiligo: Affects only one or a very limited area of the skin.
• Segmental or Unilateral vitiligo: Affects one side or an entire body part.
• Generalized or Bilateral vitiligo: Affects the entire body either in a random or symmetric pattern.

Causes

While the exact cause of this disease is still unknown, some of the potential causes include an autoimmune system disease, stress, family history, and exposure to toxins.  It’s worth noting that most cases of vitiligo in pets seem to be hereditary.

Important Facts:

• Vitiligo is NOT contagious.
• Vitiligo is NOT painful.
• Certain dog breeds are at a higher risk for developing vitiligo, some of these breeds include:
  • Belgian Tervurens
  • Rottweilers
  • Labrador Retrievers
  • German Shepherds

Have you ever met a doggy or kitty with vitiligo?

Read More Cat Care Guides

• FAQ: How Often Should You Take Your Cat to The Vet?
• Why Do Cats Bite and Then Lick You? 
• 7 Tips for Taking Care of a Fluffy Long-Haired Cat
• Should I Brush My Cat or Do They Clean Themselves?
• DIY Cat Bed Ideas to Make a Cozy Place for Your Fur Baby
• Buy Customizable Felt Cat Caves
• How to Keep Your Cat Still While Trimming Nails
• FAQ: Can CBD Oil Help Calm Cats with Situational Anxiety?
• Buy USDA Organic Hemp Extract for Dogs and Cats
• How to Buy Catnip for Cats
• FAQ: Can You Give Cats Human Grade CBD Oil?
• Common Questions and Clever Ways to use Catnip

One more thing, if you are feeling like getting a little special something for your fur baby that is unique, made right here in the USA, 100% pup and cat safe, USDA certified organic and brought to you by a US company, check out Toe Beansonline pet supplies store!