Tag: Malaseb® Medicated Shampoo

Malaseb vs Pyohex

Pyohex® vs Malaseb®: Which one should I use?

Skin problems are one of the most common reasons pet owners visit their veterinarian. At Dermcare Vet, we’ve developed targeted medicated shampoos to help manage specific conditions. Two of our most trusted products—Pyohex® Medicated Shampoo and Conditioner, and Malaseb® Medicated Shampoo—are often recommended by vet, but they serve different purposes.

 

Malaseb® Medicated Shampoo

Malaseb® is both antibacterial and antifungal, making it a versatile treatment option.

  • Indications:
    • Seborrhoeic dermatitis associated with Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Malassezia pachydermatis
    • Aid in the treatment of dermatophyte (ringworm) infections in dogs and cats
  • Benefits:
    • Dual-action formula tackles bacteria and fungi simultaneously
    • Helps reduce remove scale and degrease the skin and coat.
    • Suitable for both dogs and cats

Pyohex® Medicated Shampoo & Conditioner

Pyohex® is an antibacterial shampooand conditioner designed specifically for dogs.

  • Indications:
    • Aid in the treatment of superficial bacterial dermatitis caused by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius
  • Benefits:
    • Focused antibacterial action for bacterial skin infections
    • Conditioner provides extended antibacterial protection between washes
    • Ideal for long-term maintenance in dogs prone to recurrent bacterial infections

 

Key Differences

Feature Malaseb® Shampoo Pyohex® Shampoo & Conditioner
Active Ingredients             d Chlorhexidine + Miconazole Chlorhexidine only
Targets Bacteria, Yeast + Fungi Bacteria only
Common Uses Seborrheic dermatitis, yeast, ringworm            d   d Superficial bacterial dermatitis

 

Next Steps

  • Always consult your veterinarian before starting medicated shampoos. A qualified veterinarian will perform tests to confirm the diagnosis and provide a treatment plan.
  • Follow the recommended bathing frequency and contact times for best results.
  • Never substitute human shampoos—pets’ skin requires veterinary-specific formulations.

 

Healthy skin means a happier pet. Pyohex® Medicated Shampoo and Conditioner, and Malaseb® Medicated Shampoo are science backed, tested and trusted products. Both are powerful solutions for managing skin health and keeping your pet comfortable.

The Malaseb® Story

Developed Locally, Reaching Globally: The Malaseb® Story

For over three decades, Dermcare-Vet’s Malaseb® Medicated Shampoo has been a trusted product in veterinary dermatology, helping pets around the world manage skin conditions with confidence. What began as a local Australian innovation has grown into one of the most widely recognised medicated shampoos in global veterinary care. Today, Dermcare-Vet is proud to highlight Malaseb®’s journey, from its origins in Australia to its presence in clinics and homes across multiple continents.

Developed Locally

Malaseb® was developed by Dr. Ken Mason, one of Australia’s first veterinary dermatologists, who recognised the need for a scientifically backed, reliable topical product to manage common skin issues in dogs and cats. Through extensive research and clinical experience, Malaseb® was formulated to deliver effective antibacterial and antifungal activity for dogs and cats suffering from seborrhoeic dermatitis and ringworm infections. This commitment to quality and evidence-based research is the foundation of Malaseb®’s longstanding success.

Reaching Globally

As Malaseb® gained momentum in Australia, its reputation for delivering consistent, clinically proven outcomes quickly spread. Support from veterinary professionals, continued education initiatives and Dermcare-Vet’s strong partnerships helped Malaseb® transition from a local favourite to an internationally respected product. Today, Malaseb® is widely available in regions including New Zealand, Japan, the United Kingdom, Europe, Southeast Asia, parts of the Middle East and North America, trusted by vets who rely on its performance every day.

Dermcare-Vet remains deeply involved in supporting vets and distributors internationally, offering education, training and resources to ensure Malaseb® is used effectively and confidently. Australian veterinarians can directly access detailed resources, product information and clinical support through the Vet Section of our website. Additionally, clinics can book their local territory representative for an in-person training sessions to provide product education, helping staff stay informed and empowered when managing dermatological cases. This commitment to partnership helps maintain the product’s strong reputation and reinforces its role as a leader in dermatological care.

From its beginnings as a locally developed innovation to its current role as a globally recognised dermatology staple, Malaseb®’s journey reflects Dermcare-Vet’s commitment to science, quality and the wellbeing of animals everywhere. As Dermcare-Vet continues to grow its international presence, we remain proud of the product that started it all, and grateful for the veterinarians and pet owners worldwide who trust Malaseb® to improve and maintain the skin health of their dogs and cats.

Infection Allergy

Allergy or Infection?

Allergy or Infection?

When your dog or cat starts itching, scratching, or showing skin changes, it can be hard to tell what’s really going on. Is it an allergy? Is it an infection? Or both? Understanding the difference between allergies and infections in pets is key to getting the right treatment and helping your pet feel better, faster.

Allergy vs Infection: What’s the Difference?

Allergies in pets are an overreaction of the immune system to things like pollen, food ingredients, dust mites, or even flea saliva. These reactions cause inflammation, leading to red, itchy, and irritated skin.

On the other hand, infections are caused by microorganisms, like bacteria or yeast, that invade and grow on the skin, often when the skin barrier is already compromised. Pets with allergies are prone to secondary infections due to constant scratching and damage to the skin surface.

Signs and Symptoms

Allergy signs may include:

  • Persistent itching or licking
  • Red or inflamed skin
  • Hair loss or thinning
  • Ear infections (often recurrent)
  • Paw chewing or face rubbing

Infection signs may include:

  • Crusty, oozing, or smelly skin
  • Red bumps or pustules
  • Greasy or discoloured coat
  • Thickened skin or dark pigmentation
  • A sudden worsening of itching

Often, allergies and infections occur together—an allergy weakens the skin barrier, and bacteria or yeast take advantage of the broken skin.

How to Treat

Allergy management focuses on a multimodal management regime to reduce inflammation/itching and removing or avoiding the underlying trigger. This may include:

  • Prescription anti-inflammatory medications
  • Prescription diets
  • Regular bathing with a veterinary specific shampoo and conditioner
  • +/- Allergen-specific immunotherapy

Infection treatment often requires one or more of the following:

  • Topical antimicrobials
  • Medicated shampoos and conditioners
  • Systemic antibiotics or antifungal medications

Dermcare Products That Can Help

Dermcare has a concise range of high quality veterinary dermatology products that support both allergy management and infection control:

  • Barazone® – A prescription leave-on conditioner for the symptomatic treatment of canine atopic dermatitis, contact allergy or other pruritic conditions in the dog.
  • Malaseb® Medicated Shampoo – Combines miconazole and chlorhexidine for the treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis associated with infections with Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Malassezia pachydermatitis in dogs and cats.
  • Pyohex® Shampoo and Pyohex® Conditioner – Contains chlorhexidine to aid in the treatment of superficial dermatitis associated with infection by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius in dogs.
  • Aloveen® Shampoo and Aloveen® Conditioner – Contains oatmeal and aloe vera to soothe inflamed, itchy skin in dogs, cats and horses.

If your pet is showing signs of skin problems, speak with your veterinarian. Proper diagnosis will determine if it’s an allergy, an infection, or both. With the right care plan and targeted products, your pet can get back to feeling comfortable and happy.

MRSP Bacteria Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius

Understanding Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) in Dogs

Understanding Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) in Dogs: Symptoms, Risks & Treatments

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) is a growing concern in veterinary dermatology. Similar to the more well-known MRSA in humans, MRSP is a type of bacteria that has developed resistance to commonly used antibiotics, making infections more difficult to treat.

What is MRSP?

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is a bacteria commonly found on the skin of healthy dogs. However, when there is underlying disease present such as an allergy, these bacteria can overgrow and cause infection. MRSP is a drug-resistant strain of these bacteria.

Symptoms and Risks

Signs of an MRSP infection often resemble a typical bacterial skin infection but may persist despite treatment. These can include:

  • Red, inflamed skin
  • Pustules or pimples
  • Hair loss
  • Crusting or scaling
  • Itching or discomfort

How is MRSP Treated?

Because MRSP is resistant to many common antibiotics, culture and sensitivity testing is critical. This allows veterinarians to determine which specific antibiotics may still be effective. In many cases, topical therapy becomes the cornerstone of treatment. This may include antiseptic shampoos and conditioners that can help manage infection on the skin’s surface and minimise reliance on systemic antibiotics.

Dermcare Products That May Help

Resistance to high concentrations of antiseptics and antimicrobials in topical products is very uncommon. There is good evidence for the use of shampoos containing 2-3% chlorhexidine for MRSP infections. Dermcare have two medicated products in our range:

A Multi-Pronged Approach

Combating MRSP requires more than just treatment, it involves managing the underlying skin condition, improving the skin barrier, and practicing good hygiene. Regular bathing with antiseptic shampoos, using topical treatments as directed, and working closely with your vet can make a significant difference in outcomes.

Always consult your veterinarian if your dog shows signs of skin infection or if a previous infection returns. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are key to managing MRSP effectively.