Could Your Pet Be Suffering From Allergies?

Pets are prone to environmental and food allergies just like humans. In fact, allergies and their affects are one of the most commonly treated issues in our office. Dogs and cats may show symptoms of allergies in various ways depending on the cause.

Some of the signs of allergies include:

• Paw licking, scratching, chewing, head shaking
• Skin and ear infections
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Skin and haircoat changes

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These behaviors indicate your pet may have allergies. Allergies from mold spores, pollen, ingredients in food/treats, and/or flea bites can be a lifelong burden for your pet and cause severe dermatitis, skin inefections, unwanted behaviors, and/or gastrointestinal symptoms. With allergy season starting earlier and lasting longer, it can also bring more intense reactions. And indoor allergens can crop up any time of year!

Treatment Options For Your Pet Can Bring Them Relief

​Your veterinarian can help by identifying and managing the cause(s) of your pet's symptoms, which may include treatment of external parasites, treatment of skin/ear infections, food trials, and/or medications to help manage the itch sensation caused by environmental allergies. 

Allergies can be seasonal and/or chronic. It's important for you and your veterinarian to work together to identify the triggers and develop a plan to manage your pet's allergies before the symptoms worsen into skin/ear infections and miserable pets. Most of the time, management of allergies requires a multi-step approach and constant communication between pet owner and veterinarian.

Serious Allergic Reactions in Pets

Occasionally, pets can have acute allergic reactions to things like bee stings, snake bites, vaccinations, and/or things in the environment. If treated early, allergic reactions typically resolve quickly but, if left untreated, some severe allergic reactions can progress to anaphylactic shock, collapse and sometimes death. Severe allergic reactions can include:

• Acute vomiting
• Swollen eyes and face
• Hives on the body
• Weakness

If you suspect your pet is having an acute reaction, it is recommended that you proceed to your veterinarian immediately, calling ahead to advise of symptoms if possible.

Do you think your pet may have allergies? Click here to make an appointment.