What are the symptoms of vitiligo?

White patches on the skin and hair, often on the face and nose. Gradual and symmetrical onset. Does NOT cause itching, pain or discomfort. The animal is otherwise perfectly healthy

Is Vitiligo contagious?

Vitiligo does not spread directly between animals.

Piel y pelo

Vitiligo

A progressive loss of pigment from the skin and hair in specific areas. It is purely cosmetic: it causes no discomfort and does not affect the animal's health.

Mild🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

Symptoms to watch for

• White patches on the skin and hair, often on the face and nose
• Gradual and symmetrical onset
• Does NOT cause itching, pain or discomfort
• The animal is otherwise perfectly healthy

Causes

The cause is not fully understood, with an immunological and genetic basis. It is neither contagious nor painful.

Diagnosis

Clinical diagnosis based on appearance. The vet rules out other causes of depigmentation.

Treatment

No treatment is needed: it is a cosmetic change, not a disease that affects wellbeing. The depigmented area may be more sensitive to the sun.

Prevention

Not preventable. Protect the areas that have lost pigment from the sun.

When should you see the vet?

It is not an emergency. A check-up to confirm it is vitiligo and nothing else is enough.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.