Animals can suffer allergic reactions just like humans. Many pets suffer from allergies. Pet allergy symptoms can make your pet very uncomfortable. However, with the help of our veterinarian, you can manage your pets’ allergies. It is important to understand the different symptoms of pet allergies, types of allergies in pets, and how to help a pet with allergies.
Symptoms of Pet Allergies
The symptoms of allergies in pets vary greatly depending on the type of allergy and the pet itself. The following are some of the most commonly allergy symptoms pets suffer:
- Skin or ear irritation
- Runny nose and sneezing
- Red eyes
- Inflamed, red, and itchy skin
- Gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
Respiratory and skin symptoms are common among pets who have allergies to other pets or animals. Furthermore, it’s important to know that the symptoms of pet allergies can be seasonal or year-round.
Types of Allergies in Pets
There are three main categories of allergies in pets.
1. Food Allergies
Food allergies are allergic reactions to various foods. Pets can be allergic to proteins such as chicken, dairy, or beef, carbohydrates like wheat, or even raw foods. Food allergies are most easily diagnosed by using an exclusion diet. Our veterinarian can explain this process more during an exam.
2. Flea Allergies
Flea allergies are allergic reactions to flea saliva. Flea allergies mostly cause skin irritation. Our vet will advise on various pest control measures to help your pets avoid flea allergies.
3. Environmental Allergies
Your pets can have allergic reactions to various elements in the environment. They could be allergic to trees, weeds, dust, and more. Some of the symptoms of Environmental allergies include biting, scratching, or chewing at the paws, inflamed and red skin, and chronic ear infections.
How to Help a Pet with Allergies
The following measures will help you manage your pet allergies
1. Contact Your Veterinarian
If your pets are suffering from allergy symptoms, it’s best to contact your pets’ veterinarian. The vet will assess your pets’ allergies and customize solutions to manage the symptoms. Your vet may recommend natural therapies or pharmaceutical options like anti-inflammatory drugs.
2. Identify and Manage the Allergy
Identify the symptoms of your pets’ allergies. This will help get them the appropriate help from your veterinarian.
3. Scrutinize Your Pet’s Diet
Pets can be allergic to various foods. Monitor your pet's diet and listen to your vet’s instructions to help ease food allergy symptoms.
4. Clean Your Home Often
Cleaning your home helps remove various allergens that could affect your pets, like dust.
Manage Pet Allergies in Chesterfield and Creve Coeur
In Chesterfield and Creve Coeur, our veterinarian can help manage your pets’ allergies and other needs at Heritage Veterinary Hospital. We offer various services, including pet vaccinations, preventive care surgeries, and more.
Call us now at (314)878-8454 to schedule an appointment.