Topics in pediatric dermatology.

Skin conditions of puppies and kittens are often infectious, such as ectoparasites or dermatophytosis. Hereditary and congenital skin problems are often detected at an early age. Young animals may be more prone to toxicity from medications, and labels should be read carefully for age limits. Husbandry factors, including nutrition, ectoparasites,temperature and humidity, cleaning products, and bedding, should be considered. Fleas are still a common problem despite recent improvements in flea control and can be debilitating in young animals because of blood loss.