Primary idiopathic seborrhea is a skin disease seen in dogs and
rarely in cats. It is characterized by a defect in
keratinization or cornification that results in increased scale
formation, occasionally excessive greasiness of the skin and
hair coat, and often secondary inflammation and infection.
Secondary seborrhea, in which a primary underlying disease
causes similar clinical signs, is more common than primary
seborrhea. Seborrhea in horses is usually secondary to either
pemphigus foliaceus or equine sarcoidosis (chronic granulomatous
disease). Etiology, Clinical Findings, and Diagnosis Primary
seborrhea is an inherited skin disorder characterized by faulty
keratinization or cornification of the epidermis, hair follicle
epithelium, or claws. It is seen more frequently in American
Cocker Spaniels, English Springer Spaniels, Basset Hounds, West
Highland White Terriers, Dachshunds, Labrador and Golden
Retrievers, and German Shepherds. There is usually a familial
history of seborrhea, suggesting genetic factor