People aren’t the only ones that have to combat allergies. Many pets suffer from allergies as well. Some pets experience mild symptoms from their allergies while others appear to be in dire distress. At The Animal Hospital at Lake Brandt in Summerfield, we can help diagnose and treat allergies in your pet. These FAQs explain more about the probable causes, symptoms, and treatment of allergies in pets.
What can trigger pet allergies?
Numerous factors can trigger pet allergies. The most common factors are fleas, pollen, dust mites, grasses, weeds, and chemicals in pet or household products. Your pet may also be allergic to ingredients in his food such as eggs, corn, wheat, soy, or dairy products.
What symptoms can I look for to detect a pet allergy?
Allergy symptoms may vary in pets, depending on the allergen triggering your pet’s allergic reaction. Many pets develop skin problems due to flea or environmental allergies. Symptoms include excessive biting and scratching, red, crusty skin, skin rashes, fur loss, sores, and infections. Your pet’s feet, face, and ears may become red and inflamed. Food allergies may cause wheezing, nasal discharge, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Can allergies be harmful to my pet?
Severe allergy attacks can be hazardous to your pet’s health. Left unchecked, skin problems from environmental or flea allergies can worsen due to your pet constantly scratching his skin. Excessive scratching can lead to open sores and severe skin infections. Constant vomiting and diarrhea from food allergies can weaken your pet’s health. Reporting allergic reactions to your Summerfield vet is the first step towards helping your pet find relief.
How do veterinarians diagnose pet allergies?
After reviewing your pet’s medical history and conducting a thorough evaluation of your kit or pup, your Summerfield vet will have a better idea if your pet is suffering from allergies. If necessary, we’ll conduct skin, blood, and urine tests to confirm our diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of food allergies, we may put your pet on a food elimination diet to determine what’s triggering his symptoms.
How are pet allergies treated?
Most allergies can be treated by eliminating the allergen from your pet’s environment or diet. If your pet is allergic to chemicals in his shampoo or a household cleaner, changing these items can help alleviate symptoms. Changes in his diet and lifestyle may be in order to avoid triggering allergy symptoms. Medications and ointments can also help give your pet allergy relief.
Talk to Your Summerfield Vet about Pet Allergy Treatment
To evaluate your kit or pup for pet allergies, contact The Animal Hospital at Lake Brandt at 336-643-2229 today to schedule an appointment with your Summerfield vet. We look forward to meeting your pet care needs.