Have you ever seen your pet scratching constantly, sneezing, or even having skin problems? Countless pet owners helplessly watch these painful symptoms, not knowing the cause.
In most cases, the culprit is some kind of allergy. Similar to humans, a pet can be allergic to absolutely anything: pollen, dust mites, mold spores, or even food ingredients. Up to 20% of pets can have allergies. But, the main thing a pet parent can do is learn what makes their pet uncomfortable and find relief.
Continue reading as we list some common allergens: food, environmental factors, and household products. That way, keeping your pet in good health will not be a struggle; with this knowledge, you will help your pet live a happier and more comfortable life.
Common Allergies in Pets
The awareness of every pet owner towards the symptoms and signs of allergies is essential. This can help in responding quickly with proper care and relief. fall into these categories of which pets can be allergic:
Food Allergies
Some proteins, for example, beef, chicken, or dairy, can cause allergies among pets. Typical symptoms include itchy skin, digestive problems, and repeated ear or paw infections. Correction of their diet can relieve these symptoms and improve their overall health.
Environmental Allergies
The same things in the environment that make humans miserable, such as pollen, mold, and dust mites, have the same effect on our pets. These allergens can also cause skin itching and respiratory problems in the animal kingdom. A regular sweep and air cleaner may be all that is needed to lessen what is ailing them.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis
These fleas can be a nuisance to allergic pets whose skin can’t take the saliva. A single bite may cause itchiness and infection. They become more agitated and uncomfortable. Good grooming practices and the use of repellents will be your best friends.
Contact Allergies
Contact allergies are less common but still do exist in pets. They are caused by common substances with which pets come in contact: detergents, shampoos, and chemicals. Contact allergies cause very uncomfortable skin reactions. Discovering and avoiding the source of specific triggers can help you stop such reactions and keep your pets happy and healthy.
Recognizing the Telltale Signs of Pet Allergies
Pet allergies can be troublesome and cause health issues for our furry friends. Early signs should be identified so your pet can stay healthy. The following are some signs of common allergies among pets, which would help you recognize common symptoms of pet allergies and provide timely care and relief to your pet.
Symptoms over Skin
Rashes and itchiness are general skin allergy reaction symptoms. Quite often, one might spot reddening of the skin and, at times, hair loss on the pet’s body.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
This would cause the symptoms of vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. The pets may sneeze, cough, or even wheeze, especially if the allergies are airborne.
Behavioral Changes
Excessive scratching, biting, or licking can indicate allergic irritation.
Treatment Options
Awareness of the various treatment options for your pet’s allergies enables you to manage your pet’s symptoms and bring them immediate relief, hence improving the quality of your pet’s and your own life by attending to the welfare of your pet.
Treatment options depend on what the allergy is to and how severe it is.
Dietary Changes
Food allergies are typically managed with dietary modification or elimination of the allergenic ingredients causing the reaction. It can help to pinpoint and stay clear of those ingredients that cause trouble. This often means changing to a hypoallergenic diet.
Medications
Medications can reduce symptoms of allergy in your pet; some of those include antihistamines, steroids, and other prescription drugs that can alleviate this condition. Remember that following your vet’s instructions regarding doses is very important to maintaining the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.
Immunotherapy
This is generally referred to as allergy shots: a long-term treatment that slowly desensitizes your pet’s immune system by administering minute amounts of allergens. For a longer-term solution, pets are treated such that they become less and less sensitive to allergens by giving them small amounts of the problem. It’s not a quick fix, but can turn the tide for severe or ongoing allergies.
Home Care
Small home care steps can also work wonders. Hypoallergenic shampoos are applied regularly, cooling the irritated skin and washing away allergens. Hypoallergenic bedding can also decrease environmental allergens, making it a haven for your pet’s space.
Where Can You Find Help For Your Fur Baby’s Allergies?
Dealing with pet allergies may feel like a nightmare. It may be challenging to pinpoint what is bothering them without professional help. We recommend you visit one of the vets at Pet Wow. Our team is ready to help you understand the cause of your pet’s issues.
Pet Wow is committed to helping pets with allergies. This could mean special diets, medicines, and allergy shots, with a program tailored to your pet’s needs.
When you feel your pet is exhibiting signs of an allergic attack, do not wait until the issue resolves itself. Call today to schedule an appointment with Pet Wow.
