Veterinary dermatology represents one of the main veterinary disciplines and one of the primary reasons for consultation. Just as veterinary medicine is, veterinary dermatology is undergoing a full (r)evolution and experiencing full growth with a market that is expected to more than double in the coming 10 years with the arrival of numerous innovations both diagnostic and therapeutic.
July 2025
Introduction
Veterinary dermatology represents an essential specialty within animal medicine, dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of skin, ear, and nail disorders in various animal species.¹ This field encompasses a vast range of conditions, from allergies and fungal or bacterial infections to parasitic infestations, including chronic atopic dermatitis, irritations, and even skin cancers.¹ The therapeutic approaches are multiple, including topical creams, oral tablets, and injectable medications, all aimed not only at curing diseases but also at preserving skin and coat health, thus contributing to the animal’s overall well-being.¹
The global veterinary dermatology market is experiencing dynamic growth, driven by profound socio-economic transformations and continuous scientific advances. This report proposes a comprehensive analysis of this evolution, examining the driving forces behind it, the remarkable therapeutic innovations, the persistent challenges, and the future opportunities that will shape this vital sector of animal health.
Market Dynamics and Growth Projections
Current Market Size and Forecasts (2024-2034)
The global veterinary dermatology market was valued at approximately 18.59 billion USD in 2024.¹ Projections indicate significant growth, with an estimated value of 20.11 billion USD in 2025 and a notable increase to reach 30.31 billion USD by 2030.¹ This trajectory translates to a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% over the 2024-2030 period.¹
It is relevant to highlight that market data analysis reveals variations between different information sources. For example, other reports suggest slightly different figures, such as a value of 17.36 billion USD in 2024 with a CAGR of 9.6% for 2025-2030 ⁴, or an estimate of 10.8 billion USD in 2024 with a CAGR of 9.3% for 2025-2034 ⁵, or even 17.9 billion USD in 2024 with a CAGR of 9.7% to reach 45.2 billion USD by 2034.⁶ These disparities can be explained by distinct research methodologies, variable market definitions, or different update dates. This situation highlights the complex nature of niche market estimation and emphasizes the importance for stakeholders to focus on underlying trends and structural factors rather than a single absolute figure. A prudent approach involves considering a range of estimates for a more nuanced understanding of market trajectory.
Table 1: Global Veterinary Dermatology Market Projections (2024-2030)
|
Year |
Market Value (USD billions) |
CAGR (2024-2030) |
|
2024 |
18.59 |
– |
|
2025 |
20.11 |
8.5% |
|
2030 |
30.31 |
8.5% |
Source: MarketsandMarkets ¹
Key Growth Factors
Several fundamental factors drive the growth of the veterinary dermatology market. One of the most significant is the increasing humanization of companion animals and the constant increase in their population. Animals are increasingly perceived as full-fledged family members, which translates into an increased willingness of owners to spend on their health and well-being.¹ In the United States, for example, 86.9 million households (or 66% of households) owned a pet in 2023-2024, a figure that continued to rise to reach 94 million in 2024.³ Younger generations, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, are particularly driving this trend, contributing to higher spending on specialized veterinary care.⁶
Another essential driver is the increased adoption of pet insurance and the rise in animal health care spending.¹ Insurance reduces the financial barrier associated with costly treatments, thus encouraging owners to seek specialized care for their animals. Total U.S. consumer spending on pet products and services reached 150.6 billion USD in 2024, with a projection of 200 billion USD by 2030.³ The combination of animal humanization and insurance creates a leverage effect on the market. Humanization generates the willingness to spend on quality care, while insurance makes these expenses more accessible and predictable for owners. This dynamic transforms specialized veterinary care, including dermatology, from a discretionary expense to a quasi-necessity. This financial legitimacy encourages investments in research and development for more advanced and potentially more expensive treatments, as a consumer base is ready to adopt them.
Among other growth factors are the growing concerns about infectious zoonotic diseases, which highlight the interconnection between animal health and human health.¹ The increasing awareness initiatives led by governments and animal protection organizations also contribute to educating owners about the importance of dermatological care.¹
Strategic Opportunities
The veterinary dermatology market is rich in strategic opportunities. Technological advances and new product launches are major catalysts for continuous innovation.¹ This includes the development of more targeted and efficient treatments.
The emerging economies present high growth potential. The Asia-Pacific region, for example, is expected to reach 6.34 billion USD by 2030, displaying the highest CAGR of 9.2%.³ Increased investments in animal health infrastructure in these regions support this expansion.⁵ The contrast between the current dominance of North America and the rapid growth potential of emerging markets indicates a “dual-track” strategy for major players. Companies must consolidate their position in mature markets through cutting-edge innovation (for example, JAK inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies) while investing in infrastructure expansion and awareness in high-growth regions. This implies adapting offerings to local economic capacities and specific needs of these developing markets.
The increase in the number of veterinary practitioners in developed markets also contributes to better accessibility of care, although this growth is tempered by major challenges.¹
Market Barriers and Challenges
Despite growth prospects, the veterinary dermatology market faces significant barriers and challenges. The rising cost of pet care constitutes a notable constraint.³ Veterinary expenses rank second among pet expenses, and an annual increase of about 12% in treatment costs, due notably to specialized consultation fees and relatively lower veterinary incomes, can restrict access to care.³
The growing resistance to parasiticides is a major clinical and commercial challenge, requiring continuous development of new formulations and treatment strategies to maintain efficacy.¹
A critical structural challenge is the global shortage and professional burnout of veterinarians.⁸ In the United States, for example, forecasts indicate a deficit of 70,092 veterinarians by 2032 compared to only 52,926 graduates, a situation worsened by a burnout rate of over 40% and a high suicide risk.⁸ This reality exerts considerable pressure on clinical staff, particularly in rural areas, where 243 American counties were classified as shortage areas in 2025.⁸ The veterinarian shortage and increasing care costs are interdependent challenges that threaten the market’s capacity to fully meet growing demand. The shortage pushes costs upward and limits access to advanced dermatological treatments, even if owners are willing to pay. This situation highlights the importance of technological solutions, such as telemedicine and AI-assisted diagnostics, not only as growth opportunities but as imperatives for the sector’s future viability.
Segmented Market Analysis
The veterinary dermatology market is characterized by complex segmentation, reflecting the diversity of needs and available solutions.
By Product Type
The veterinary dermatological products market is dominated by two main categories. Antiparasitic drugs constitute the largest segment in terms of market share in 2024, representing 45.48% of global revenue ⁴, and are projected for the strongest CAGR growth in the United States from 2025 to 2030.¹ This growth is directly related to the high prevalence of flea, tick, and other parasitic infestations, as well as the need to develop new formulations to counter resistance to older medications.¹ The frequent use of antiparasitics is documented, with 42.34% of cases in large animals and 32.95% in cats and dogs in a survey conducted in Turkey.³ The parasiticide market for dogs and cats has furthermore increased by 31% to 34% over the last decade.³
Simultaneously, antibacterial drugs held the highest market share in value in 2024, valued at 4.1 billion USD.⁵ This dominance is explained by the high prevalence of bacterial skin infections, particularly in dogs and cats, and by the emergence of resistant strains, such as methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSA), which stimulates demand for advanced antibacterial formulations.⁵ Cefpodoxime, an oral antibiotic, was the most commonly prescribed medication for skin infections, representing 18.8% of prescriptions in 2022.³ The coexistence of antiparasitic dominance and antibacterial importance reveals the duality of needs in veterinary dermatology: a constant fight against ubiquitous external infestations and complex management of secondary infections, often exacerbated by underlying conditions like allergies. The emphasis on advanced formulations in both categories underscores the impact of resistance and the need for continuous innovation.
The other product types include antifungals, monoclonal antibodies, and other drug classes.³
By Route of Administration
The route of administration for veterinary dermatological treatments is evolving. The topical route currently holds the largest market share, representing 49.2% of the global market in 2023 ⁶, and the largest share in the United States.¹ It is preferred for its ease of application, direct action on affected areas, and reduced systemic side effects. This category includes medicated shampoos, ointments, creams, and sprays.¹
However, the oral route is projected to experience the fastest growth, with the highest CAGR from 2025 to 2030 ³, and a CAGR of 9%.⁵ Oral medications are often perceived as easier to administer and offer a practical and effective solution for owners and veterinarians.³ They allow for a systemic approach, treating the underlying source of skin problems, and are appreciated for their potency, ease of use, and better compliance in animals.⁵ The transition from topical dominance to rapid oral route growth reflects an evolution in preferences of owners and clinicians toward more practical and systemic solutions for chronic conditions. While topical remains essential for localized and adjunctive treatments, the convenience of oral administration, especially for systemic conditions like allergies, is a key factor in its increasing adoption, improving treatment compliance.
The injectables also represent an important route of administration.³
By Type of Condition
The parasitic infections represented the largest market share in 2024, whether in the United States ¹, with 45.48% of global revenue ⁴, 33.4% of the market ⁵, or 52.3% of revenue.⁶ Common conditions include flea allergic dermatitis, demodicosis, and sarcoptic mange.¹ Their prevalence is influenced by warm climates, pet travel, and environmental exposure.¹ The high prevalence of these infections continuously stimulates demand for antiparasitic drugs.⁵
The allergic infections constitute the fastest-growing segment.⁴ This includes atopic dermatitis (AD), a pruritic multifactorial disease whose development and pathophysiology involve genetic and environmental factors.⁹ The prevalence of CAD is estimated between 3% and 15%, although reliable epidemiological data are limited.⁹ The predominance of parasitic infections and rapid growth of allergic infections underscore that the market is primarily driven by chronic and recurring conditions. This reinforces the need for long-term solutions that are easy to administer, and potentially preventive therapies, rather than simple one-time curative treatments. The complexity of atopic dermatitis, with its genetic and environmental factors, requires a multimodal approach and sophisticated diagnostics.
The other dermatological conditions include autoimmune diseases and skin cancers.¹
By Animal Type
The companion animals segment is expected to experience the fastest growth and holds the dominant market share, representing 65.3% of the market in 2024 with a CAGR of 9.6% ⁵, and 61.5% in 2023.⁶ In the United States, dogs hold the largest share of this segment.¹ This dominance is attributed to increased pet adoption, heightened awareness of skin health, and the availability of advanced treatments.¹ Dogs are particularly prone to conditions like atopic dermatitis, bacterial infections, and allergic reactions.¹ The preponderance of companion animals, and particularly dogs, in the veterinary dermatology market is a direct reflection of the emotional and financial investment of owners. This means that innovations and marketing strategies are heavily oriented toward this category, with an emphasis on quality of life and sophisticated treatments.
The livestock animals also represent a significant market share ⁵, although the approach to skin disease management in this segment is more focused on large-scale prevention and minimizing economic losses.
By End User
The veterinary hospitals and clinics hold the largest market share, whether in the United States ¹ or globally (dominant segment in 2024, projected to reach 14.8 billion USD by 2034 ⁵, and 53.8% of revenue in 2023 ⁶). These establishments offer comprehensive dermatological care, including diagnostics, prescription treatments, and specialized therapies, thanks to the presence of qualified veterinarians and access to advanced medications.¹ The predominance of hospitals/clinics as the main distribution point, despite the growth of e-commerce and over-the-counter products, underscores the complexity of veterinary dermatological conditions that often require professional diagnosis and prescription treatments. This reinforces the central role of the veterinarian as prescriber and case manager.
The retail pharmacies and online platforms (e-commerce) also constitute important distribution channels.⁵ The over-the-counter (OTC) products segment dominated in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.5%, thanks to easy accessibility, relaxation of regulatory restrictions, and cost-effectiveness compared to prescription drugs.⁵
In-Depth Regional Analysis
The North America dominated the market in 2024, holding the highest market share (38.3% ⁴, 38.6% ⁵, 39.2% ⁶). The United States is the leader in this region due to its solid pet healthcare infrastructure and high animal health spending.¹ The American market has shown consistent growth, rising from 3.0 billion USD in 2021 to 3.8 billion USD in 2024.⁵ Growth is also supported by the presence of major industry players such as Elanco, Merck, and Zoetis in the United States.¹
The Asia-Pacific region is expected to display the highest CAGR (9.2%) and reach 6.34 billion USD by 2030, driven by increased investments in animal health infrastructure.³ The
Australia is projected to record the highest CAGR from 2025 to 2030 at the national level.⁴ The market concentration in North America, combined with rapid growth in Asia-Pacific, creates a two-speed market dynamic. North America acts as an incubator for cutting-edge innovations and high-value therapies, while Asia-Pacific represents immense volume potential, requiring adaptation of market penetration strategies, including potentially more affordable solutions or local partnerships.
Table 2: Market Share Distribution by Key Segment (2024)
|
Segment |
Product Type (Antiparasitics) |
Route of Administration (Topical) |
Type of Condition (Parasitic) |
Animal Type (Companion) |
End User (Hospitals/Clinics) |
Region (North America) |
|
Market Share (%) |
45.48% ⁴ |
49.2% ⁶ |
52.3% ⁶ |
65.3% ⁵ |
53.8% ⁶ |
39.2% ⁶ |
Note: Market shares may vary slightly according to sources and specific segment definitions. Consolidated data from.⁴
Prevalence of Dermatological Conditions by Species
Understanding the prevalence of dermatological conditions is crucial for targeting research efforts and treatment strategies.
Dogs: Common Conditions and Risk Factors
Dermatological disorders are extremely common in dogs, representing 21.34% of cases in a study conducted at a university veterinary clinical complex.¹⁰ The most frequently diagnosed conditions include sarcoptic mange, pruritus due to tick infestations, pyoderma, and allergic eczema.¹⁰ Other studies also mention demodicosis, atopic dermatitis, hot spots, and fungal infections.¹⁰ In the United Kingdom, otitis, pyoderma, anal sac impaction, flea infestation, and atopic dermatitis are among the most common diagnoses.¹⁰
The canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a major condition, with an estimated prevalence between 3% and 15%, although reliable epidemiological data are limited due to the complexity of diagnosis and variability of studied populations.⁹ Comparative studies report prevalences of 4.7% in the United States, 12.7% at the University of Montreal, and an upward trend with 25.65% of CAD cases in a university hospital in Brazil.⁹
Several risk factors are associated with dermatological conditions in dogs. Age plays a significant role, with dogs under one year being most affected (40.90% in one study).¹⁰ The onset of CAD clinical signs is generally between 4 months and 3 years.⁹ The sex may also influence prevalence, with males being more often affected (63.22% in one study) ¹⁰, although some CAD studies show higher prevalence in females (62.4% in Brazil) or in castrated males.⁹ The breed is a predisposing factor, with Spitz, Terriers, and German Shepherds presenting increased risk.¹⁰ Labradors and Golden Retrievers are also frequently studied breeds for genetic and environmental factors related to CAD.⁹ The environment and season influence the occurrence of skin disorders, with higher incidence during the rainy season (30.02%) and summer (24.24%).¹⁰ Dogs living indoors have a higher frequency of CAD, while rural living or forest walks are associated with reduced risk.⁹ The variability of CAD prevalence figures and risk factors (age, sex, breed, environment) across different studies and geographical regions highlights the complexity of the disease and the necessity for a personalized diagnostic and therapeutic approach. This justifies investment in more precise diagnostic tools and targeted therapies that can be adapted to the individual, rather than generic solutions.
Cats: Common Conditions and Risk Factors
In felines, between 6% and 15% of patients present at least one dermatopathy, and it is common for cats to suffer from multiple conditions simultaneously (for example, 22% with two distinct skin diseases and 6% with three in a study at Cornell University Veterinary Hospital).¹¹
The most common conditions vary geographically. In the United States (Cornell), the most frequent causes of skin diseases in cats are allergies to airborne particles, food allergies, and allergies to flea and mosquito bites.¹¹ In contrast, in Canada and the United Kingdom, abscesses are the most frequent cause of skin diseases in feline patients.¹¹
The dermatophytosis (ringworm) is a notable condition, with prevalences varying from 7.5% in 2020 to 11.3% in 2021 and 3.7% in 2022 in a clinic in Indonesia.¹² The high prevalence in certain tropical regions like Indonesia is attributed to the hot and humid climate that favors dermatophyte proliferation.¹²
Risk factors for feline dermatophytosis include age, with the highest incidence in cats under one year, particularly those under 6 months (84% of cases), due to their immature immune system.¹² The breed is also an important factor, with Persians (long-haired) being significantly more affected (52% of cases) due to their dense fur that can retain fungal spores and impede effective grooming.¹² The distribution by sex showed higher prevalence in males (63%) than in females (37%), although this may be influenced by a disproportionate sample.¹² The environmental and seasonal conditions play a role, with dermatophytosis being mainly observed during the dry season (63% of cases) in the Indonesian study, which contrasts with other reports.¹² The lifestyle is also relevant, with outdoor cats having a higher risk of parasitic infestation and abscesses.¹¹ More generally, male cats are more likely to engage in aggressive behaviors that can lead to bite abscesses.¹¹ Common signs of skin diseases in cats include excessive scratching, licking or chewing of fur, redness and swelling of the skin, hair loss, crusty, scaly or flaky skin, as well as the presence of swellings or bumps.¹¹
Ruminants and Livestock: Common Conditions and Risk Factors
Skin diseases represent a significant health constraint for ruminants, with an overall prevalence of 36.1% of animals examined in one study.¹³ Prevalence varies by species, with sheep being most affected (42.47%), followed by goats (38.12%) and cattle (27.68%).¹³
The major diseases identified in ruminants are mainly parasitic and infectious in origin. Among the parasitic, we find ticks (8.95%), lice (7.02%), melophagus (5.56%), and mange (2.39%).¹³ The infectious diseases include sheep and goat pox (5.94%), Orf (3.47%), dermatophilosis (0.69%), and lumpy skin disease (2.24%).¹³ A separate study in cattle highlighted dermatophytosis (8.32%), ascariasis (mange, 3.13%), pediculosis (2.60%), lumpy skin disease (1.62%), and dermatophilosis (1.56%) as the most common conditions.¹⁴
Several risk factors are associated with these diseases. Body condition is a key indicator, with significantly higher prevalence in ruminants in poor physical condition.¹³ The age is also a determining factor, with young ruminants (under 2 years) being more sensitive.¹³ The sex may play a role, with dermatophilosis being significantly associated with the female sex in cattle ¹³, while mange was significantly higher in male cattle.¹⁴ The breed may also influence susceptibility, with local breed cattle being more affected by mange.¹⁴ The farming system is a crucial factor, with significantly higher prevalence in poor farming systems.¹⁴ Finally, season and environment influence disease distribution; ticks, mange, and lice are common in the rainy season ¹⁰, while dermatophilosis and lumpy skin disease are more frequent in early winter and mid-spring.¹³ The low incidence of dermatophilosis may be related to low precipitation.¹⁴
The high prevalence of skin diseases in livestock, dominated by ectoparasites and infections, highlights the significant economic impact of these conditions on animal productivity. Unlike companion animals where individual quality of life is paramount, skin disease management in livestock is often focused on large-scale prevention, epidemic control, and minimizing economic losses, which influences the type of products and services demanded (for example, mass treatments, vaccines).
Table 3: Prevalence of Main Dermatological Conditions by Animal Species
|
Animal Species |
Main Dermatological Condition |
Prevalence (%) |
Key Risk Factors |
|
Dogs |
Sarcoptic mange, Pyoderma, CAD |
21.34% (total cases) ¹⁰ |
Age (<1 year), Sex (males), Breed (Spitz, Terriers), Season (rain/summer) ⁹ |
|
Cats |
Allergies (airborne, food, fleas), Dermatophytosis, Abscesses |
6-15% (total cases) ¹¹ |
Age (<1 year), Breed (Persians), Sex (males), Lifestyle (outdoor) ¹¹ |
|
Cattle |
Dermatophytosis, Mange, Pediculosis, Lumpy skin disease |
17.27% (total cases) ¹⁴ |
Age (<2 years), Sex (males for mange, females for dermatophilosis), Breed (local for mange), Poor management ¹³ |
|
Sheep |
Ticks, Lice, Melophagus, Sheep and goat pox, Orf |
42.47% (total cases) ¹³ |
Age (young), Poor physical condition, Season ¹³ |
|
Goats |
Ticks, Lice, Mange, Sheep and goat pox, Orf |
38.12% (total cases) ¹³ |
Age (young), Poor physical condition ¹³ |
Source: Consolidated data from ⁹
Therapeutic Advances and Innovations
The veterinary dermatology market is constantly evolving, marked by significant innovations in therapeutic approaches.
New Drug Classes: JAK Inhibitors and Monoclonal Antibodies
A major transformation is the emergence of highly targeted therapies, such as Janus Kinase (JAKi) inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), which are revolutionizing the treatment of inflammatory and allergic dermatological conditions.⁶
The JAK inhibitors represent a new class of drugs that modulate Th1 and Th2 pathways, offering a promising alternative for moderate to severe cases of atopic dermatitis.¹⁵ Oclacitinib (Apoquel) is a well-established example of JAKi used for atopic dermatitis in dogs.¹⁶ More recently, ilunocitinib (Zenrelia) was approved by the FDA in September 2024 for the control of pruritus associated with allergic and atopic dermatitis in dogs over 12 months old.⁶ Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of oclacitinib in significantly reducing pruritus and improving quality of life in dogs with CAD, with less frequent side effects than glucocorticoids or cyclosporine.¹⁹ For ilunocitinib, trials have shown good long-term tolerance, without clinically significant changes at therapeutic doses, although precautions are noted regarding simultaneous vaccination in young dogs.¹⁸
The monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have become a standard therapy for canine allergic dermatitis.⁶ Zoetis’s Cytopoint, for example, was authorized in 2016 by USDA APHIS CVB for the treatment of allergic and atopic dermatitis in dogs.¹⁷ This mAb acts by binding and neutralizing the cytokine interleukin-31 (IL-31), a key molecule involved in the sensation of itching, which effectively reduces pruritus and skin lesions.¹⁷ Clinical trials with lokivetmab (Cytopoint) have shown rapid and significant reduction in pruritus and improvement of skin lesions in dogs with atopic or allergic dermatitis, with generally mild and transient side effects.²² These agents offer prolonged relief from itching, with dosing intervals of 4 to 8 weeks, thus reducing dependence on daily medications.⁶ mAbs are species-specific, which has required extensive research to develop canine and feline antibodies.¹⁷ This precision medicine approach offers improved efficacy and reduced side effects, improving animal welfare and owner satisfaction.
Multimodal and Complementary Approaches
The management of canine atopic dermatitis has evolved toward a combined approach that includes not only inflammation control but also skin barrier repair.²⁴ This involves oral administration of essential fatty acids and topical application of products containing a combination of ceramides and fatty acids, particularly useful as adjuvant treatments in young patients without chronic skin alterations.²⁴
The importance of nutrition is also recognized. A clinical trial demonstrated that a diet enriched with antioxidants, polyphenols, and omega-3 fatty acids could significantly reduce clinical signs of CAD, thus offering promising adjuvant therapy.²⁵
The topical treatments continue to play a crucial role. New topical glucocorticoid formulations (for example, hydrocortisone sprays) are gaining ground as adjuvant treatments to minimize systemic exposure.⁶ The use of products containing non-prescription antimicrobial complexes, such as those based on Adelmidrol and tapioca starch, is also being studied for seborrhea and CAD.²⁶
Antimicrobial Resistance Management
Facing the growing concern about antibiotic resistance, antimicrobial stewardship has become a major focus in veterinary dermatology.⁶ This translates into more frequent use of cultures and sensitivity testing for refractory pyoderma cases, and the use of less commonly used agents like chloramphenicol, tetracyclines, and rifampin when resistant strains such as methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus pseudintermedius are identified.⁶ Antimicrobial use guidelines for canine pyoderma have been developed by the International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Diseases (ISCAID).²⁷ The development of new non-antibiotic therapies for bacterial infections (for example, the in vitro antibacterial activity of hemp extracts against multi-resistant pathogens ²⁷) and the emphasis on precise diagnostics reflect the market’s commitment to responsible medicine, balancing effective treatment with public health concerns.
Personalized Medicine and Genomic Advances
While personalized medicine in veterinary dermatology is still in its infancy compared to human medicine, fundamental research and strategic acquisitions by large companies indicate a clear trajectory toward a more individualized approach to care.
Genomic Applications and Biomarkers
The molecular and genomic approaches aim to understand the genetic, epigenetic, and molecular characteristics of skin diseases.²⁹ Research has already established links between canine atopic dermatitis and several genome regions, including the filaggrin gene region, considered a major risk factor for atopic eczema in humans and now identified as such in dogs (for example, Labradors).³⁰ This discovery underscores the value of canine studies for understanding human diseases and vice versa.³⁰ The acquisition of Basepaws, a pet genetics company, by Zoetis in June 2022, illustrates the strategic investment of major players in this field, strengthening their portfolio in genetic testing and data analysis to advance animal care.³¹
The transcriptomic analyses (RNA sequencing) and skin microbiome analysis (dysbiosis, therapeutic modulation by probiotics or prebiotics) are other promising research areas.²⁹ Preliminary studies have explored lipidomic analysis and the effect of probiotics and postbiotics supplementation on canine skin microbiota in the context of CAD.²⁷ These approaches aim to identify predictive and prognostic biomarkers to stratify patients and personalize treatments.²⁹
Potential of Precision Medicine
The evolution toward personalized medicine will allow a shift from symptomatic treatment to a more precise, genetically informed, and preventive approach. This implies an increased role for genetic testing, advanced diagnostics, and data analysis in veterinary practice. The advanced drug delivery systems, such as nanotechnology for targeted delivery or personalized topical formulations, could also emerge to maximize efficacy and minimize side effects.²⁹ The artificial intelligence (AI) and molecular imaging are also tools under development for early diagnosis and immune response evaluation.²⁹ Thirty percent of veterinarians are already deploying AI tools for imaging, cytology, and workflow management, thus improving diagnostic capacity in the face of clinician shortages.⁸
This orientation toward personalized medicine represents a significant long-term change, moving from a reactive and “one-size-fits-all” approach to a proactive and individualized one. This could redefine diagnostic protocols and therapeutic strategies, leading to earlier interventions, more effective treatments, and better quality of life for animals, particularly those suffering from chronic and genetically predisposed conditions like atopic dermatitis.
Telemedicine and Access to Dermatological Care
Telemedicine has seen increased acceptance in veterinary care, particularly in dermatology, partly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic.³²
Advantages of Telemedicine in Veterinary Dermatology
Telemedicine offers several significant advantages. It constitutes a convenient and non-disruptive way to provide follow-up examinations, particularly beneficial for patients with chronic diseases requiring frequent visits.³² For fearful, anxious, or stressed animals, telemedicine reduces the stress associated with clinic visits.³² It increases the likelihood of follow-up visits, which is crucial for successful control of skin diseases.³²
Furthermore, telemedicine improves access to care, particularly by reducing wait times for appointments, travel times, and time away from work for owners.³³ It can also generate cost savings for patients and offer educational opportunities for primary care providers.³³ The use of well-lit photos and videos submitted in advance is particularly useful for visual diagnosis in dermatology.³²
Challenges and Limitations of Telemedicine
Despite its advantages, telemedicine in veterinary dermatology presents challenges. The technical challenges (equipment failures, connectivity issues) and staff shortages to manage both in-person visits and remote consultations are obstacles.³⁴ Overloaded schedules can lead to delays in referrals.³⁴
A major limitation is that telemedicine does not allow for certain essential diagnostic tests in dermatology, such as skin and ear cytology.³² While one can rely on previously performed tests for empirical therapy, the absence of a complete physical examination can limit diagnostic accuracy, particularly for pigmented or cancerous lesions.³³ Complete replacement of thorough physical examinations remains difficult.³³ Additionally, unequal access to technology can potentially increase care disparities.³³
To overcome these challenges, standardized operational protocols and practical training for support staff are necessary.³⁴ When telemedicine reveals the need for an in-person consultation, the time required for this follow-up visit is generally shorter.³² The expansion of telemedicine is also considered a policy initiative to improve access to veterinary care and mitigate workforce-related challenges.³⁵
Conclusions
The veterinary dermatology market is experiencing strong growth, propelled by the increasing humanization of companion animals, rising animal health care spending, and technological advances. Projections indicate significant expansion, with a market value expected to reach 30.31 billion USD by 2030, despite variations in estimates from different sources. This growth is primarily driven by the companion animal segment, particularly dogs, and by the high prevalence of parasitic and allergic infections.
Therapeutic innovations, notably the introduction of JAK inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies, are transforming the treatment landscape by offering more targeted and effective solutions for inflammatory and pruritic conditions. These advances, combined with a multimodal approach including nutrition and topical therapies, significantly improve animals’ quality of life. Simultaneously, the emphasis on antimicrobial stewardship and the development of non-antibiotic therapies reflect growing awareness of challenges related to antimicrobial resistance.
The future of veterinary dermatology is oriented toward personalized medicine, driven by advances in genomics, transcriptomics, and microbiome analysis. These approaches promise more precise diagnostics and individualized treatments. Telemedicine, while facing technical and diagnostic challenges, offers substantial opportunities to improve access to care, reduce wait times, and alleviate veterinarian workload, a crucial aspect considering the practitioner shortage and increasing care costs.
In summary, the veterinary dermatology market is dynamic and resilient, characterized by constant innovation and adaptation to the changing needs of pet owners and challenges in the animal health sector. The synergy between scientific advances, optimized service delivery models, and deep understanding of market dynamics will be essential to sustain this growth and continuously improve animals’ dermatological health.
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Citation Sources
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