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Veterinary Dermatology
Specialist diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions in dogs and cats.
What it is
The skin speaks. We listen.
Veterinary dermatology is one of the most complex specialities in small-animal medicine — skin problems are very common, have many possible causes and are often confused with one another. A persistent itch, hair loss, redness or odour from the skin or ears are rarely isolated symptoms.
At Rovira Veterinary Clinic we have Dr. Andrea Aldea, a veterinary dermatology specialist with GPCert certification, to provide rigorous diagnosis and patient-tailored treatment in Gràcia, Barcelona.
Dr. Andrea Aldea · Veterinary Dermatology Specialist
Postgraduate certification in Dermatology (GPCert). Ongoing training in allergology, allergy testing and veterinary immunotherapy.
What we treat
Main dermatological conditions
Allergies & hypersensitivities
Allergy is the most common cause of chronic itch in dogs and cats. It can be food-related, environmental (atopy) or contact-based. Diagnosis requires ruling out other causes and, often, specific testing. The goal is to identify the trigger and control symptoms long-term.
Skin infections
Bacterial (pyoderma) and fungal (dermatophytosis, Malassezia) infections are very common and often arise as a consequence of an underlying condition. Correct treatment requires identifying the causative agent and treating the root cause to prevent recurrence.
Chronic & autoimmune diseases
Atopic dermatitis, autoimmune diseases such as pemphigus, keratinisation disorders and other long-term conditions requiring continuous monitoring and treatment adjustment to maintain the animal's quality of life.
How we work
A dermatological diagnosis requires method
Skin problems are not solved in a single visit. Dermatology requires a systematic approach: ruling out causes step by step, running the right tests and adjusting treatment according to progress.
At our Gràcia clinic we perform cytologies during the consultation itself, which allows us to make immediate decisions without waiting for external results in most cases.
- 1 Detailed dermatological history
- 2 Full skin examination including coat and nails
- 3 Skin and/or ear cytology at the clinic
- 4 Fungal or bacterial culture where needed
- 5 Elimination diet for food allergies
- 6 Environmental allergy testing (intradermal or serology)
- 7 Individualised treatment and regular follow-up
- 8 Owner education on home management
Frequently asked questions
What people ask us most about dermatology
How do I know if my pet has an allergy or is just scratching?
Occasional scratching is normal, but if your pet scratches repeatedly, licks its paws, has redness, hair loss or frequent skin or ear infections, there is very likely an underlying dermatological cause. A specialist consultation allows the diagnosis to be guided from the very first visit.
Can allergies in dogs and cats be cured?
In most cases they cannot be cured, but they can be very effectively controlled. The goal is to identify the triggers, reduce inflammation and improve the skin barrier so the animal is comfortable and has a good quality of life. Many allergic patients lead completely normal lives with the right treatment.
Does veterinary dermatology also cover ear problems?
Yes. Chronic or recurrent otitis is frequently linked to allergies or other dermatological conditions. We treat otitis as part of the overall dermatological approach, not in isolation, which considerably reduces recurrence.
How long does it take for a skin problem to improve?
It depends on the diagnosis. A bacterial infection can improve in 3–4 weeks with the correct antibiotic. An environmental allergy may take months to adjust treatment and may need long-term follow-up. The important thing is not to abandon the process too early — untreated skin conditions tend to worsen.
Does your pet have a skin problem or persistent itch?
Book an appointment