Pet Allergy Treatment
We never want to see our pets sick. We at MountainView Veterinarian Hospital strive to find the best solution for you and your furry friend. Serving the Rockaway, NJ, we are here to answer your questions and calm your concerns when it comes to pet allergies.
Pet Allergies
Animals have allergies, just like humans. It is a reaction by the immune system towards a foreign substance. The symptoms range depending on the cause.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction in your pet include:
- Chronic ear infections
- Constant licking
- Itchiness
- Hives
- Swelling around the face, ears, lips, eyelids, and earflaps
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Red and inflamed skin
- Sneezing
- Itchy and runny eyes
Skin Allergies in Pets
Referred to as dermatitis, skin allergies are the most common type of reaction.
The three leading causes of skin allergies include:
- Flea allergy dermatitis
- Food allergies
- Environmental allergies
Skin Allergies
Many dogs are allergic to flea saliva. It means the fleabites might lead to extremely itchy skin that causes inflammation and scabby spots, especially around the base of the tail. Pets can have a reaction to flea bites EVEN IF YOU DO NOT SEE them on the skin.
Food allergies can lead to the same symptoms; however, the primary itch spots around the ears and paws.
Environmental agents can cause dermatitis and it is generally seasonal.
With any skin allergy, there is a risk your pet will open wounds that lead to yeast and bacterial infections that will require treatment from its veterinarian.
Food Allergies
Food allergies can get tricky. The symptoms include gastrointestinal issues, skin conditions, or a combination. In severe cases, anaphylaxis can occur – it is possible fatal and requires vet care as soon as possible.
Food sensitivity and food allergies work in almost the same way. It is why diagnosis is a process. In either case, changing or eliminating certain foods and treats one at a time helps narrow down the cause. You and your vet will work on a food program to figure out what ingredients they are reacting to.
Diagnosing and Treating Allergies in Pets
The first thing a pet vet does is rule out any other causes for allergic-like reactions. In some cases, they will run allergy tests to pinpoint the cause. But it is not always possible to pinpoint the problem.
Food allergies are typically a 12-week food trial and use an elimination diet.
When it comes to treating any allergy, avoidance of the allergen, and cause is the first step to take.
Fleas are the primary cause of skin allergies. Preventive flea and tick treatment are sometimes enough to put a stop to the skin irritation. Allergy relief medication is available to control the symptoms of allergic reactions.
Call MountainView Veterinarian Hospital Today!
We at MountainView are here to answer any questions or concerns when it comes to your pet’s health. Allergic reactions are scary, and our veterinarian in Rockaway is here to offer relief to you and your pet. Contact us today if your cat or dog is showing signs of allergic reactions.
