A guide to healing hotspots, calming itches, and hydrating your pet’s skin.
If you’ve ever watched your dog or cat scratch like they’re auditioning for a one-paw band, you know how frustrating itchy skin can be – for both of you. Sometimes it’s not just a random itch. If your pet’s chewing, licking, or scratching one spot like their life depends on it, you might be dealing with a hotspot – a painful, inflamed patch of skin that can spring up from dryness, allergies, fleas, or even just too much licking.
Hotspots are one of the most common skin issues we see in dogs and cats. They often show up overnight, spread quickly, and, if left untreated, can turn into an open sore. The good news? With the right combo of care—think targeted shampoos and sprays, plus the occasional diet tweak—you can stop the itch in its tracks and help your pet feel like themselves again.
What Causes Hotspots?
There’s no single culprit, but here are a few common triggers:
- Dry skin or air – especially in indoor pets with year-round climate control
- Allergies – environmental or food-related
- Moisture trapped in the coat – like after a swim or bath that didn’t dry completely
- Fleas or bug bites – one bite can set off non-stop chewing
- Boredom or anxiety – yes, pets can stress-lick too
You’ll usually find hotspots on the neck, hips, tail base, paws, or belly. The skin might look red, raw, or even damp, and hair loss is common.
Your Game Plan for Itch Relief
We’ve rounded up some tried-and-true ways to beat the itch, from medicated shampoos that wash away trouble to quick-fix sprays for those in-between moments. We’ll also talk about keeping fleas at bay so the problem doesn’t come back, and how a small diet change can keep your pet’s skin healthy from the inside out.
Medicated & Soothing Shampoos
When it comes to itch relief, a good bath is often step one. The goal isn’t just a clean coat, it’s calm, healthy skin. The right shampoo can help fight bacteria or yeast, restore moisture, and break the itch cycle so your pet can heal comfortably. Here are a few of our favorite TropiClean picks for itchy, sensitive skin:
- TropiClean OXYMED Medicated Anti-Itch Conditioner – Calms irritated skin and locks in soothing hydration after a medicated shampoo.
- TropiClean OXYMED Medicated Anti-Itch Shampoo – Deep-penetrating relief for stubborn itch and inflammation.
- TropiClean OATMEAL & TEA TREE Shampoo – Gentle oatmeal to moisturize and tea tree oil to naturally soothe and refresh.
- TropiClean NEEM & CITRUS Shampoo – Neem oil helps repel fleas and ticks, while citrus cuts through grease and odor.
Instant Relief Between Baths
Sometimes your pet just can’t wait until the next bath, and that’s where sprays and topical treatments shine. For quick, cooling comfort without the tub time, TropiClean OXYMED Medicated Anti-Itch Spray is a great go-to. If you need something with a little extra soothing power, Tomlyn ALLERCAINE Anti-Itch combines aloe and lidocaine for fast, targeted relief that calms irritation on the spot. Keep one of these handy for in-between wash days or to spot-treat hot spots.
Don’t Forget Flea Control
Even the best shampoos can only go so far if fleas are still causing trouble. Flea bites are one of the top triggers for hot spots, and a full flea prevention plan will keep those pests from making your pet’s skin miserable. Here are some of our go-to flea-fighting products to keep your pet protected:
- Zodiac Flea Powder – Easy-to-apply powder for long-lasting flea control.
- Advantage II Flea & Tick – Trusted topical treatment for fast-acting, month-long protection.
- Durvet NO-BITE IGR Mist – Convenient spray that kills fleas, ticks, and lice while breaking the life cycle to prevent reinfestation.
- TropiClean Natural Flea & Tick Soothing Shampoo – Combines pest control with gentle, itch-calming botanicals.
- TropiClean Natural Flea & Tick Shampoo – Max Strength – Powerful, plant-based formula for heavy flea and tick problems.
Pair your itch-relief routine with one of these options to stop fleas at the source and help keep your pet’s skin calm and clear all year long.
Diet Matters, Too
Healthy skin starts from within, and if your pet has recurring skin issues, a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and promote a shiny, itch-free coat. This is especially important for indoor pets, who may be more prone to hot spots because of the stable, warm environment inside. That’s why we recommend CANIDAE Salmon & Ancient Grains, a formula packed with omega-rich salmon to nourish skin and coat from the inside out.
Indoor Pets Need Extra Attention
Here’s something a lot of folks overlook: Pets who live mostly indoors are more likely to get hotspots. Why? Controlled temperature.
While heating and air conditioning are great for us, they can dry out your pet’s skin, especially during seasonal changes or in homes with low humidity. If your indoor cat or small dog is scratching more during winter or summer, dry air may be the culprit.
Add a humidifier in rooms where they hang out the most, or consider adding a skin supplement (like salmon oil) to their food.
What Else Helps?
- Clean Bedding – Fresh bedding isn’t just cozy – it’s a skin saver. Wash it weekly in hot water to kick out bacteria, allergens, and anything else that might be bugging their skin.
- Regular Grooming – A good brushing keeps loose fur in check and spreads those natural oils that keep skin healthy. (Just go easy with a gentle brush so you don’t add to the irritation.)
- Distraction – If they’re fixated on one spot, try a cone or give them something better to do – maybe try a puzzle toy or a long-lasting chew) to break the licking loop.
Hotspot Relief Starts Here
You know your pets better than anyone. When they’re uncomfortable, you feel it too. The good news? With the right shampoo, solid nutrition, and a little extra TLC, hotspots don’t have to stick around.
Whether it’s a medicated bath, a quick-relief spray, flea prevention, or a skin-boosting diet change, there are plenty of ways to keep your pet comfortable and itch-free.
- We’ve got the shampoos.
- We’ve got the fish-based feeds.
- And we’re always here to help if you’ve got questions.
The trick is catching the problem early and sticking to a routine that keeps both skin and coat in top shape. If you’re in San Diego County, stop by Elston Hay & Grain (or place your order online) and stock up on everything your pet needs. Let’s get your four-legged friend back to tail wags and happy purrs.
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Elston Hay & Grain
For over 55 years, Elston’s has been San Diego’s go-to for animal care and rural living. We proudly support generations of horse lovers, livestock caretakers, pet owners, and home growers with top-notch hay, feed, and supplies. Rooted in ranching and built on friendly know-how, we’re here to help you care for your animals with confidence. Whether you’re raising chickens, feeding a stable, or spoiling your pup, here at Elston’s we’ve got what you need.
Shop online or visit us at our locations in Ramona and Poway. We proudly deliver to all of San Diego County, including Escondido, Lakeside, Warner Springs, Julian, Ranchita, and South County. https://shop.elstonhayandgrain.com/