Evolution of the Veterinary Dermatology Market by 2034

Veterinary dermatology is one of the main veterinary disciplines and one of the main reasons for consultation. Just like veterinary medicine, veterinary dermatology is in full (r)evolution and in full growth, with a market that is expected to more than double in the next 10 years with the arrival of numerous innovations, both diagnostic and therapeutic.

Introduction

Veterinary dermatology is an essential specialty within animal medicine, dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of skin, ear, and nail conditions in various animal species.¹ This field encompasses a wide range of conditions, from allergies and fungal or bacterial infections to parasitic infestations, chronic atopic dermatitis, irritations, and even skin cancers.¹ Therapeutic approaches are numerous, including topical creams, oral tablets, and injectable medications, all aimed not only at healing diseases but also at preserving the health of the skin and coat, 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 advancements. This report provides an exhaustive analysis of this evolution, examining the underlying driving forces, significant therapeutic innovations, persistent challenges, and future opportunities that will shape this vital sector of animal health.

Market Dynamics and Growth Projections

Current Market Size and Forecast (2024-2034)

The global veterinary dermatology market was valued at approximately USD 18.59 billion in 2024.¹ Projections indicate significant growth, with an estimated value of USD 20.11 billion in 2025 and a notable increase to reach USD 30.31 billion by 2030.¹ This trajectory translates into a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% over the 2024-2030 period.¹

It is worth noting that market data analysis reveals variations among different information sources. For example, other reports suggest slightly different figures, such as a value of USD 17.36 billion in 2024 with a CAGR of 9.6% for 2025-2030 ⁴, or an estimate of USD 10.8 billion in 2024 with a CAGR of 9.3% for 2025-2034 ⁵, or even USD 17.9 billion in 2024 with a CAGR of 9.7% to reach USD 45.2 billion by 2034.⁶ These discrepancies can be explained by distinct research methodologies, varying market definitions, or different update dates. This situation highlights the complex nature of estimating niche markets and emphasizes the importance for stakeholders to focus on underlying trends and structural factors rather than a single absolute figure. A cautious approach involves considering a range of estimates for a more nuanced understanding of the 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 are driving the growth of the veterinary dermatology market. One of the most significant is the increasing humanization of pets and their steadily growing population. Animals are increasingly perceived as full-fledged family members, leading to a greater willingness of owners to spend on their health and well-being.¹ In the United States, for example, 86.9 million households (66% of households) owned a pet in 2023-2024, a figure that continued to increase to 94 million in 2024.³ Younger generations, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, are especially driving this trend, contributing to higher spending on specialized veterinary care.⁶

Another essential driver is the increased adoption of pet insurance and increased spending on animal healthcare.¹ Pet insurance reduces the financial barrier associated with expensive treatments, thus encouraging owners to seek specialized care for their animals. Total US consumer spending on pet products and services reached USD 150.6 billion in 2024, with a projection of USD 200 billion by 2030.³ The combination of pet humanization and insurance creates a leveraging 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 into a quasi-necessity. This financial legitimacy encourages investment in research and development for more advanced and potentially more expensive treatments, as there is a consumer base ready to adopt them.

Other growth drivers include growing concerns about infectious zoonotic diseases, which highlight the interconnectedness between animal and human health.¹ Increasing awareness initiatives led by governments and animal welfare 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 advancements and new product launches are major catalysts for continuous innovation.¹ This includes the development of more targeted and effective treatments.

Emerging economies present high growth potential. The Asia-Pacific region, for example, is expected to reach USD 6.34 billion by 2030, showing 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 “two-track” strategy for major players. Companies must consolidate their position in mature markets through cutting-edge innovation (e.g., JAK inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies) while investing in infrastructure expansion and awareness building in high-growth regions. This implies adapting offerings to local economic capacities and the specific needs of these developing markets.

The increasing number of veterinary practitioners in developed markets also contributes to greater accessibility of care, although this growth is tempered by major challenges.¹

Market Restraints and Challenges

Despite the growth prospects, the veterinary dermatology market faces significant restraints and challenges. The rising cost of pet care represents a notable constraint.³ Veterinary expenses rank second among pet expenses, and an annual increase of about 12% in treatment costs, due in particular to specialized consultation fees and relatively lower veterinarian incomes, can restrict access to care.³

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 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 aggravated by a burnout rate of over 40% and a high risk of suicide.⁸ This reality places considerable pressure on clinical staff, particularly in rural areas, where 243 US counties were classified as shortage areas in 2025.⁸ The shortage of veterinarians and rising healthcare costs are interdependent challenges that threaten the market’s ability to fully meet growing demand. The shortage pushes up costs 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 future viability of the sector.

Segmented Market Analysis

The veterinary dermatology market is characterized by complex segmentation, reflecting the diversity of available needs and solutions.

By Product Type

The veterinary dermatological products market is dominated by two main categories. Antiparasitic drugs constituted the largest segment in terms of market share in 2024, representing 45.48% of global revenue ⁴, and are projected for the highest CAGR growth in the United States from 2025 to 2030.¹ This growth is directly linked to the high prevalence of flea, tick, and other parasitic infestations, as well as the need to develop new formulations to combat resistance to older drugs.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 also increased by 31% to 34% over the last decade.³

At the same time, antibacterial drugs held the highest market share in value in 2024, estimated at USD 4.1 billion.⁵ This dominance is explained by the high prevalence of bacterial skin infections, especially in dogs and cats, and by the emergence of resistant strains, such as methicillin-resistant

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP), which stimulates demand for advanced antibacterial formulations.⁵ Cefpodoxime, an oral antibiotic, was the most commonly prescribed drug for skin infections, accounting for 18.8% of prescriptions in 2022.³ The coexistence of antiparasitic dominance and the importance of antibacterials reveals the duality of needs in veterinary dermatology: a constant battle against ubiquitous external infestations and the complex management of secondary infections, often exacerbated by underlying conditions such as allergies. The focus on advanced formulations in both categories highlights the impact of resistance and the need for continuous innovation.

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 favored 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 convenient and effective solution for owners and veterinarians.³ They provide a systemic approach, treating the underlying source of skin problems, and are valued for their potency, ease of use, and better compliance in animals.⁵ The shift from topical dominance to rapid oral route growth reflects an evolution in owner and clinician preferences towards 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 growing adoption, improving treatment adherence.

Injectables also represent an important route of administration.³

By Type of Condition

Parasitic infections accounted for the largest market share in 2024, both 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 allergy dermatitis, demodectic mange, and sarcoptic mange.¹ Their prevalence is influenced by warm climates, pet travel, and environmental exposure.¹ The high prevalence of these infections continuously drives demand for antiparasitic drugs.⁵

Allergic infections constitute the fastest-growing segment.⁴ This includes atopic dermatitis (AD), a multifactorial pruritic 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 is limited.⁹ The predominance of parasitic infections and the rapid growth of allergic infections emphasize that the market is mainly driven by chronic and recurrent conditions. This reinforces the need for long-term, easy-to-administer solutions, and potentially preventive therapies, rather than just isolated curative treatments. The complexity of atopic dermatitis, with its genetic and environmental factors, requires a multimodal approach and sophisticated diagnostics.

Other dermatological conditions include autoimmune diseases and skin cancers.¹

By Animal Type

The companion animal 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 the increasing adoption of companion animals, growing awareness of skin health, and the availability of advanced treatments.¹ Dogs are particularly susceptible to conditions such as atopic dermatitis, bacterial infections, and allergic reactions.¹ The preponderance of companion animals, especially dogs, in the veterinary dermatology market is a direct reflection of owners’ emotional and financial investment. This means that innovations and marketing strategies are strongly oriented towards this category, with a focus on quality of life and sophisticated treatments.

Livestock animals also represent a significant portion of the market ⁵, although the approach to managing skin diseases in this segment is more focused on large-scale prevention and minimizing economic losses.

By End User

Veterinary hospitals and clinics hold the largest market share, both in the United States ¹ and globally (dominant segment in 2024, expected to reach USD 14.8 billion 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, highlights the complexity of veterinary dermatological conditions that often require professional diagnosis and prescription treatments. This reinforces the central role of the veterinarian as a prescriber and case manager.

Retail pharmacies and online platforms (e-commerce) also constitute important distribution channels.⁵ The over-the-counter (OTC) product segment dominated in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.5%, thanks to easy accessibility, easing regulatory restrictions, and cost-effectiveness compared to prescription drugs.⁵

In-depth Regional Analysis

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 strong pet healthcare infrastructure and high animal health spending.¹ The US market has shown consistent growth, rising from USD 3.0 billion in 2021 to USD 3.8 billion 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 show the highest CAGR (9.2%) and reach USD 6.34 billion by 2030, driven by increased investments in animal health infrastructure.³

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 Breakdown by Key Segment (2024)

Segment	Product Type (Antiparasitics)	Route of Administration (Topical)	Condition Type (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 depending on 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 conditions are extremely common in dogs, accounting for 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 demodectic mange, 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

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a major condition, with an estimated prevalence between 3% and 15%, although reliable epidemiological data is limited due to the complexity of diagnosis and the 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 of age being the most affected (40.90% in one study).¹⁰ The onset of clinical signs of CAD generally occurs between 4 months and 3 years.⁹ Gender can also influence prevalence, with males being more often affected (63.22% in one study) ¹⁰, although some studies on CAD show a higher prevalence in females (62.4% in Brazil) or in neutered males.⁹ Breed is a predisposing factor, with Spitz, Terriers, and German Shepherds having an increased risk.¹⁰ Labradors and Golden Retrievers are also breeds frequently studied for genetic and environmental factors related to CAD.⁹ Environment and season influence the occurrence of skin disorders, with a 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 walks in the forest are associated with a reduced risk.⁹ The variability in CAD prevalence figures and risk factors (age, sex, breed, environment) across different studies and geographical regions highlights the complexity of the disease and the need 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 with at least one dermatopathy, and it is common for cats to suffer from several conditions simultaneously (e.g., 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 airborne allergies, food allergies, and flea and mosquito bite allergies.¹¹ In contrast, in Canada and the United Kingdom, abscesses are the most frequent cause of skin diseases in feline patients.¹¹

Dermatophytosis (ringworm) is a notable condition, with prevalences ranging 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 some tropical regions like Indonesia is attributed to the warm and humid climate that favors the proliferation of dermatophytes.¹²

Risk factors for feline dermatophytosis include age, with the highest incidence in cats less than one year old, especially those under 6 months (84% of cases), due to their immature immune system.¹² Breed is also an important factor, with Persians (long-haired) being significantly more affected (52% of cases) due to their dense fur which can retain fungal spores and hinder effective grooming.¹² Gender distribution showed a higher prevalence in males (63%) than in females (37%), although this may be influenced by a disproportionate sample.¹² Environmental and seasonal conditions play a role, with dermatophytosis being mostly observed during the dry season (63% of cases) in the Indonesian study, which contrasts with other reports.¹² 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 the coat, redness and swelling of the skin, hair loss, crusty, scaly or flaking skin, as well as the presence of swelling or lumps.¹¹

Ruminants and Livestock Animals: Common Conditions and Risk Factors

Skin diseases represent a significant health constraint for ruminants, with an overall prevalence of 36.1% of examined animals in one study.¹³ Prevalence varies by species, with sheep being the most affected (42.47%), followed by goats (38.12%) and cattle (27.68%).¹³

Major diseases identified in ruminants are primarily parasitic and infectious in origin. Among parasitic diseases, ticks (8.95%), lice (7.02%), keds (5.56%), and mange (2.39%) are found.¹³ 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 a significantly higher prevalence in ruminants in poor physical condition.¹³ Age is also a determining factor, with young ruminants (under 2 years old) being more susceptible.¹³ Gender can play a role, with dermatophilosis being significantly associated with the female gender in cattle ¹³, while mange was significantly higher in male cattle.¹⁴ Breed can also influence susceptibility, with local cattle breeds being more affected by mange.¹⁴ The farming system is a crucial factor, with a 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 rainfall.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 (e.g., mass treatments, vaccines).

Table 3: Prevalence of Major 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, Keds, 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 Advancements 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 inhibitors (JAKi) and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), which are revolutionizing the treatment of inflammatory and allergic dermatological conditions.⁶

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 a 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 of age.⁶ Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of oclacitinib in significantly reducing pruritus and improving the quality of life of dogs with CAD, with less frequent side effects than glucocorticoids or cyclosporine.¹⁹ For ilunocitinib, trials have shown good long-term tolerability, with no clinically significant changes at therapeutic doses, although precautions are noted concerning simultaneous vaccination in young dogs.¹⁸

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have become a standard therapy for canine allergic dermatitis.⁶ Zoetis’ Cytopoint, for example, was authorized in 2016 by the 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 a rapid and significant reduction in pruritus and improvement in skin lesions in dogs with atopic or allergic dermatitis, with generally mild and transient side effects.²² These agents offer prolonged itch relief, 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, enhancing animal welfare and owner satisfaction.

Multimodal and Complementary Approaches

The management of canine atopic dermatitis has evolved towards 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 adjunctive 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 a promising adjunctive therapy.²⁵

Topical treatments continue to play a crucial role. New formulations of topical glucocorticoids (e.g., hydrocortisone sprays) are gaining ground as adjunctive 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

In response to growing concerns about antibiotic resistance, antimicrobial stewardship has become a major focus in veterinary dermatology.⁶ This translates into more frequent use of cultures and sensitivity tests for refractory pyoderma cases, and the use of less commonly used agents such as chloramphenicol, tetracyclines, and rifampicin when resistant strains like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius are identified.⁶ Guidelines for the use of antimicrobials 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 (e.g., the in vitro antibacterial activity of hemp extracts against multi-drug resistant pathogens ²⁷) and the emphasis on accurate 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 early stages compared to human medicine, fundamental research and strategic acquisitions by large companies indicate a clear trajectory towards a more individualized approach to care.

Genomic Applications and Biomarkers

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 regions of the genome, including the filaggrin gene region, considered a major risk factor for atopic eczema in humans and now identified as such in dogs (e.g., Labradors).³⁰ This discovery highlights 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

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 probiotic and postbiotic supplementation on the 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 towards 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. 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 Artificial intelligence (AI) and molecular imaging are also developing tools for early diagnosis and evaluation of immune response.²⁹ Thirty percent of veterinarians are already deploying AI tools for imaging, cytology, and workflow management, thereby improving diagnostic capacity in the face of clinician shortages.⁸

This shift towards personalized medicine represents a significant long-term change, moving from a reactive, “one-size-fits-all” approach to a proactive, individualized approach. This could redefine diagnostic protocols and therapeutic strategies, leading to earlier interventions, more effective treatments, and an improved quality of life for animals, especially those suffering from chronic and genetically predisposed conditions such as atopic dermatitis.

Telemedicine and Access to Dermatological Care

Telemedicine has gained increased acceptance in veterinary care, particularly in dermatology, partly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic.³²

Benefits of Telemedicine in Veterinary Dermatology

Telemedicine offers several significant advantages. It provides a convenient and unintrusive way to provide follow-up examinations, particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions 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

In addition, telemedicine improves access to care, particularly by reducing appointment wait times, travel times, and time away from work for owners.³³ It can also generate cost savings for patients and provide 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. Technical challenges (equipment failures, connectivity issues) and staff shortages to manage both in-person visits and remote consultations are obstacles.³⁴ Overbooked 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 Although previous tests can be used for empirical therapy, the absence of a complete physical examination can limit the accuracy of diagnosis, especially for pigmented or cancerous lesions.³³ The complete replacement of thorough physical examinations remains difficult.³³ Furthermore, unequal access to technology can potentially increase disparities in care.³³

To overcome these challenges, standardized operating 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 usually shorter.³² The expansion of telemedicine is also considered a policy initiative to improve access to veterinary care and mitigate workforce challenges.³⁵

Conclusions

The veterinary dermatology market is growing rapidly, driven by the increasing humanization of pets, rising animal healthcare expenditures, and technological advancements. Projections indicate significant expansion, with market value expected to reach USD 30.31 billion by 2030, despite variations in estimates from different sources. This growth is primarily fueled by the companion animal segment, particularly dogs, and by the high prevalence of parasitic and allergic infections.

Therapeutic innovations, including 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 advancements, combined with a multimodal approach including nutrition and topical therapies, significantly improve the quality of life for animals. Concurrently, the emphasis on antimicrobial stewardship and the development of non-antibiotic therapies reflect a growing awareness of the challenges related to antimicrobial resistance.

The future of veterinary dermatology is heading towards 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 waiting times, and alleviate the workload of veterinarians, a crucial aspect given the shortage of practitioners and rising healthcare 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 the challenges of the animal health sector. The synergy between scientific advancements, optimized service delivery models, and a deep understanding of market dynamics will be essential to sustain this growth and continuously improve the dermatological health of animals.

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