Allergies are misguided reactions to foreign substances by the body's immune system. Dogs and cats can show similar seasonal allergy symptoms to humans, manifesting as skin allergies, ear infections, respiratory problems, or digestive issues. Pet allergies can develop throughout your pet's life, so things that may not have affected them in the past can start to cause allergy symptoms later on.
Allergies can cause inflammation, leading to secondary infections (yeast and bacteria). These infections can lead to itching and must be treated alongside the primary allergy. Pets can also be allergic to protein sources (beef, chicken, dairy) similar to humans, causing dietary problems such as vomiting and diarrhea.
Common allergy symptoms to look out for include:
Scratching and biting their coat or skin
Red, inflamed, or infected skin
Excessive shedding
Compulsive paw liking in dogs
Scooting their butt on the ground or licking their anal glands
Chronic ear infections or red, waxy ears
Respiratory issues, such as difficulty breathing, coughing, or wheezing
Treating pet allergies
Depending on the type of reaction, your veterinarian will prescribe medications and or diet changes that will manage your pet's allergies. If your dog has a severe allergic reaction, it is best to get them help immediately from your veterinarian or any emergency hospital.
While it is recommended that you contact your veterinarian on how to combat your pet's allergies, there are several ways to try and alleviate them at home. These methods include:
Flea and tick preventatives: Talk to your veterinarian about the best preventatives for your pet
Wipe off their coats: A quick wipe down for your pet's coat, skin, and paws each time they travel outdoors can help remove excess pollen and allergens. It can also help you notice any ticks or
Baths: This can help remove allergens or pollen on your pet's skin. Only use shampoos made for dogs and cats
Avoiding allergens: Reducing your pet's exposure to outdoor allergens on days with high amounts of pollen can help manage their symptoms
Vacuum and clean the house regularly: Cleaning any allergens that you or your pet may bring home can help reduce symptoms even if your pets spend a lot of time outdoors
While it can be difficult to watch your pet suffer through allergies during the warmer seasons, there are several ways to manage and treat them, allowing them to enjoy the warm weather with you. If you have questions about your pet allergies and how to treat them, call us at 559-434-5470 to learn more or request an appointment today.
Resources
Animal Humane Society. Signs your pet has season allergies - and what you can do to help
American Kennel Club. Types of Dog allergies and how to treat them
VCA Animal Hospitals. Allergies in Dogs
UC Davis Veterinary Medicine. Allergies in Pets
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