Allergies don’t only effect humans. They also effect our pets causing discomfort and
health concerns we often have to care for and be cautious of. Just like us, pets allergies
range from environmental allergies to food allergies, creating a wide variety. This also
means that there is a huge range of symptoms we have to account for. This blog will
cover common causes, symptoms, and management for allergies in our pets.
Common Causes of Pet Allergies
1. Environmental Allergens: Dust, pollen, mold spores, and certain plants can trigger
reactions when pets come in contact with them
2. Flea Allergy: In some pets, flea bites may cause a more severe reaction due to a
higher sensitivity
3. Food Allergies: Ingredients in pet foods such as dairy, wheat, and beef can cause
allergic reactions in sensitive animals
4. Contact Allergies: When coming into contact with the pet’s skin, certain materials
or substances can cause irritation (i.e. cleaning supplies, plastics).
Symptoms of Allergies in Pets
Sometimes, identifying allergy symptoms in your pet may be harder due to other health
conditions. Common signs and symptoms include:
● Itching/Scratching: Excessive scratching, licking, or biting at the paws, skin, ears,
etc.
● Skin Irritation: Rashes, redness, inflamed skin, and recurring ear infections.
● Digestion Issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, or other upset in cases of food allergies.
● Respiratory Issues: Coughing, wheezing, or sneezing, especially in cases of
airborne allergies.
Management of Allergies in Pets
1. Veterinary Visits: Making a visit to get your pet examined by their vet will help to
diagnose specific allergies in your pet and rule out other health conditions with
similar symptoms. Regularly visiting your vet will also help to make sure your pet
isn’t being heavily affected by their allergy.
2. Medication/Treatment: Medications or other treatment prescribed by a
veterinarian can alleviate symptoms. In more severe cases, a veterinarian may
suggest allergy shots as a form of immunotherapy to desensitize your pets
reaction to the allergy over time.
3. Avoidance: Although, typically easier said than done, minimizing exposure to the
allergen will minimize allergic reactions.
4. Diet Management: In cases with food allergies, switching a to a hypoallergenic or
limited-ingredients diet may be effective in reducing allergic reactions. These
diets eliminate common food allergies to make the food safer to eat for more
pets.
5. Flea Control: Taking measures to prevent fleas will prove to be crucial for pets
with flea allergies.
Just like us, allergies can significantly impact your pet’s health and well-being. It is crucial
for us, as their owners, to manage these allergies by taking the appropriate measures. If
you believe your pet has an allergy, book an appointment with a veterinarian to get an
accurate diagnosis and for future steps to take to keep your pet safe. By understanding
your pet’s allergies and correct steps to take, you can minimize triggers and keep your
pet healthy.
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