Since round april he has been constantly sick. If not eye issue (only left eye) then skin problems. He is currently on Vigamox for a S. Anginosus infection in this left eye and as soon as it clears up I am seeing an eye specialist that is supposed to be the best in town. That eye has been treated by three different vets, all very knowledgeable and trustworthy. I have no reason to doubt them, but the issue is clearly secondary so I will move forward.
The bigger issue is Zyrtec's skin. He has been treated for mites multiple times (doesn't help), he has been treated for fungus topically, and orally (slight improvement after oral medication, but rather confounding factor i suspect). He has been tested for metabolic issues and liver function after the anti fungal treatment and all is normal.
He is only on fleece in cage and no wooden items that can not be properly cleaned. He gets fatty acids with meals in an attempt to hydrate skin (p.o). He dislikes (no irritation of skin, he is just a grumpy boy) Gorgeous guinea calendula, neem soothing gel or regular coconut oil. Neither helps more than temporarily. The skin is not thick or crusty, but rather dry and sensitive. He does have a small fit if he scratches intensely.
The BIG issue is.. When he is at the pet hotel (like now over xmas) he comes back with decent skin! Few days at home and his problem is back. I provide everything for the hotel. Cage, dry food, veggies, fleece, hay, toilet substrate, medication.
Anyone with any experience with skin problems related to air quality, temperature or humidity? I have no clue where the issue lies but this seems to be the only difference between my place and the hotel. That and the fact that their cage at home is bigger and cleaner, but thats hardly the issue here :)