From Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM,
Your Guide to Veterinary Medicine.
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Definition: Pruritis is the medical term for "itchiness"; something that causes a desire to scratch. What causes pruritis? The reasons are too many to list - everything from a dry skin to parasites to hypothyroidism.

If your pet shows signs of pruritis; scratching, chewing, licking and / or biting at the skin, feet or ears, please see your veterinarian to diagnose the cause and get some relief for your itchy pet. Prolonged pruritis (and the resultant trauma of chewing and scratching) can lead to other health problems, such as skin and ear infections.

Related Reading:
Why does my pet itch?
Wikipedia: Itch

Veterinary Glossary Index

Pronunciation: proo-i'-tis

Also Known As: itchy, puritic

Common Misspellings: puritic

Examples: Her dog was so pruritic that the vet recommended an immediate oatmeal bath and oral medications to help lessen her dog's discomfort.