“The fibrous protein keratin is the main component of skin, hair, feathers, horns, claws and beaks in most animals. Hyperkeratosis is a skin condition in which keratin is overproduced causing an increase in the thickness of the stratum corneum. The clinical signs involve rough, thickened and dry skin which can crack, resulting in the emergence of secondary infections (bacterial or fungal).
Hyperkeratosis typically affects certain locations such as the nose, pads and pressure point calluses. Certain breeds are predisposed for hereditary and genetic reasons. The French Mastiff and the Irish terrier for example, are mostly affected by ‘naso-plantar keratoderma’ and the Labrador by ‘nasal parakeratosis’. This skin ailment can also be age-related due to the thickening of the skin that occurs when animals age, especially at the pressure points, hence the formation of calluses.
Though it is possible to manage hyperkeratosis in animals, the success of the management protocol involves first identifying the cause. Chronic hyperkeratosis requires a different therapeutic approach than hyperkeratosis that results as a short-term defence against external/environmental irritants. For example, if a patient presents with pressure point calluses on the elbow area, a change of bedding is recommended. In any case, in order to improve the comfort and appearance of these thickened zones, it is essential to apply specifically-formulated emollient ointments.
