Pets can suffer from allergies just like humans, although their symptoms may differ. While we may experience sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, pets often show signs through their skin, such as itching, redness, yeasty odor, and hair loss. You may notice your pet focusing on areas like their paws, face, ears, armpits, and abdomen.
There can be various reasons behind your pet's allergies. The most common types include:
1. Flea Allergy: Fleas are a leading cause of allergies in pets. Effective flea control is crucial, particularly for pets with flea allergies. If you observe excessive itching in your pet, it's essential to schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians for a proper diagnosis.
2. Food Allergy: This is another prevalent allergy among pets. Common triggers include beef, chicken, pork, dairy, fish (in cats), corn, wheat, and soy.
3. Environmental Allergies (Atopic Dermatitis): This condition, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a frequent cause of chronic itching in pets. It occurs due to an allergic reaction to substances in the environment like pollen, molds, grass, or dust mites.
Testing for your pet's specific allergies enables us to tailor a treatment program for the best results. While there's no cure for allergies, managing symptoms involves treating skin infections, eliminating parasites like fleas, and controlling chronic itching. The primary goal of allergy therapy is to alleviate itching and reduce infections, ensuring your pet's comfort.
Various medications are available to treat your pet's allergies effectively. Contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians to discuss the optimal treatment for your beloved companion. Taking proactive steps to address your pet's allergies can significantly enhance their quality of life.