Pets can experience allergic reactions or chronic allergy symptoms. Like with humans, determining the cause of the allergies can help treat the symptoms and prevent allergic reactions. Everything from food to the environment can cause your cat or dog to experience an allergic reaction. At Annapolis Veterinary & Wellness in Annapolis, MD, we have provided local pet owners with pet allergy treatment for many years. Following are the answers to several questions our veterinarian frequently receives regarding pet allergies.
What are the Different Types of Pet Allergies?
There are several things pets can be allergic to. Like humans, everything from pollen to insect bites and foods to shampoos can cause an allergic reaction. Most environmental causes of allergies are usually harmless. However, if the root cause of your pet's allergies is not treated, it can cause future complications. For example, animals show allergies by scratching specific body areas, causing infections and skin irritations.
How Can a Veterinarian Help?
A veterinarian can help diagnose pet allergies and determine what treatment methods are best for your pet's needs. Your veterinarian can help develop a nutritional plan reducing your pet's exposure to what could be causing the allergic reactions. Additionally, they can prescribe medications to help alleviate your pet's allergy symptoms if needed.
What Causes Pet Allergies
There are four leading causes of allergic reactions in dogs and cats. These four main factors include:
- Atopic Allergies: Caused from environmental conditions in the home or outside.
- Flea Allergy Dermatitis: Caused by fleas, which is an allergic reaction to the flea's saliva.
- Food Allergies: Pets can be allergic to various proteins, such as chicken, fish, beef, or soy.
- Contact Allergies: Caused by coming in contact with an irritant, such as laundry detergent or the medication in a flea collar.
What Are Common Allergy Symptoms in Pets?
Pets do not know when they develop an allergy to something but can show you something is incorrect through behavioral changes. For example, if you see your pet excessively scratching, licking, or grooming, it could be a symptom of an allergy. If your pet experiences gastronomical distress, such as excessive vomiting and diarrhea, it might be due to allergies.
Let Us Help Diagnose Your Pet's Allergies
Our veterinarian at Annapolis Veterinary & Wellness in Annapolis, MD, can help diagnose what is irritating your pet and causing allergic reactions. Call today at (410) 224-6624 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian.