Same Itch, Different Species: How Feline Dermatology Breaks the Rules

This session will explore why feline skin diseases cannot always be approached using what is done with dogs. Cats have unique reaction patterns, distinct immunologic responses, and species-specific differentials that can make diagnosis and management more challenging. This lecture will review the major ways feline dermatology diverges from the canine model, including allergic skin disease, infectious disorders, immune-mediated diseases, and neoplastic/paraneoplastic conditions. Techniques to improve compliance will also be discussed. Attendees will leave with a stronger framework for evaluating the skin conditions in cats and become more confident diagnosing and treating them.

• Recognize the key ways feline dermatologic disease differs from canine dermatology, including unique reaction patterns and species-specific clinical presentations.
• Develop diagnostic approaches for common feline skin diseases, including allergic, infectious, immune-mediated, and neoplastic/paraneoplastic disorders.
• Differentiate major feline dermatologic differentials based on lesion distribution, clinical history, and characteristic reaction patterns to improve diagnostic accuracy.
• Implement practical treatment strategies and client compliance techniques to improve management.