If your pet is scratching, itching, chewing excessively, or your pet sneezes too much and shake his head or rubs his face, then these are the signs that your pet has allergies.
TYPE OF ALLERGIES:
There are different types of allergies that the pet can experience: it could be from food, flea, and sometimes environmental allergies.
FOOD: Food allergies are caused due to immune response or pets has food intolerance or sensitivity. Food allergies can result in itchiness, facial swelling, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Food intolerances and sensitivities are generally less severe and are mainly limited to digestive problems.
FLEA: This is the most common allergy experienced in pets. The condition is hypersensitivity to the antigens or proteins found in flea saliva. When a flea bites the pet, a small amount of saliva is released and it reacts with the pet’s immune system resulting in extreme itchiness and skin irritation throughout the body.
ENVIRONMENTAL: The allergens that are present in the pet’s environment such as dust, pollen, fungi, mold, plants, grass, perfumes, etc. Though these seasonal allergies are environmental, but some of the allergens are present throughout the year and may cause constant irritation.
SYMPTOMS OF ALLERGIES
Symptoms of allergies depend on the cause and type of allergy. These are:
*Constant licking or grooming
*Diarrhea
*Ear infections
*Runny eyes
*Sneezing
*Excessive itchiness
*Facial swelling
*Itchy ears
*Red, inflamed skin
*Vomiting
*Difficulty breathing
DIAGNOSING
Diagnosing allergies is complicated as some symptoms of allergies can be caused by a medical condition. It is important if you can monitor and if the pet has allergies visit the vet so that they can begin the treatment immediately. The vet will review the pet’s medical history. Sometimes allergy testing may not be a reliable method for diagnosing. Skin and Blood tests are recommended for diagnosing environmental allergies.
TREATMENT
The treatment of flea allergy is aimed at reducing symptoms till the fleas are completely eliminated. It is important to treat the pet for fleas and look for his environment.
For the allergies related to food, once the pet’s diet trial is diagnosed, the allergens adjustments must be made as per the pet’s diet to ensure optimal health. Consult with the vet before making any changes in the pet’s diet.
Environmental and seasonal allergies have a variety of treatment options available, such as corticosteroids or antihistamines can help to manage symptoms as prescribed by your vet. The use of Topical ointment, eye drops, ear drops, and shampoos helps in reducing itchiness and minimizing skin irritation.
PREVENTION
Here are some allergy prevention tips:
- Avoid smoking or use of harsh chemicals.
- Bathe your pet with vet-recommended shampoo to relieve your pet from itching.
- Use tick and flea control regularly.
- Wash your pet’s toys regularly.
If you think your pet has allergies or need more information on pet allergies, please contact us today and schedule an appointment. A pet needs your help in living a healthy life and we are here to offer our expertise in taking care of pets.
