Animals can also develop vitiligo

Elephant with vitiligo

Vitiligo has been reported among some species of domestic and wild animals. Some of these occurrences have been documented by veterinary journals and publications.

Buffalo

The September 1990 issue of Buffalo Bulletin, reports that a female buffalo in Pakistan has developed white patches on the ventral skin of the belly. The pregnant cow, rapidly became hypersensitive to flies and sunlight. The condition hasn't been passed to her offspring. The same article reports that by 1965 there were only two recorded occurrences of vitiligo among buffaloes. (Luekoderma in Buffalo, Hussain N.)

Buffalo with vitiligo spots on belly - front view
Buffalo with vitiligo spots on belly - front view
Buffalo with vitiligo spots on belly - front view
Buffalo with vitiligo spots on belly - back view

Horses

Among horses, vitiligo is most commonly seen in Arabians (Arabian fading syndrome, pinky syndrome). Equine vitiligo is more common in mares that are pregnant or that have recently foaled, suggesting hormonal influence. (Equine dermatology By Danny W. Scott, William Howard Miller)

Horse with vitiligo spots on muzzle
Horse with vitiligo spots on muzzle

Dogs

In Rottweiler dogs, vitiligo is sometimes considered a cosmetic defect . It may also cause constant itching in very rare cases. (Photo courtesy of www.dogbreedinfo.com)

Rottweiler puppy with vitiligo on snout
Rottweiler puppy with vitiligo on snout
Doberman with vitiligo spots on snout, head, neck and legs
Doberman with vitiligo spots on snout, head, neck and legs

 

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