Pet Allergies: What to Do for Your Itchy Pet

Though springtime is the long-awaited season of warmer weather and spending time outside, it’s also the season for allergies—not just for us, but for our pets, too. How do you know whether the symptoms your pet is exhibiting are allergy-related or something else? And, when you know your pets are suffering from allergies, what can you do to make them more comfortable? Keep reading to find out more about pet allergies and how you can find the right pet supplies in Saint Francisville, LA.

Symptoms of allergies in pets

We are more like our furry companions than we’re aware of, and allergy symptoms look similarly to how we feel when we’re suffering, too. In fact, there are many common triggers. If your dog or cat is sneezing, coughing, wheezing, scratching more than usual, experiencing runny, itchy eyes or ears or is exhibiting stomach issues like vomiting or diarrhea, these could all be signs they’re suffering from allergies. Of course, skin allergies can present in a number of ways as well, such as swelling, obsessive scratching or licking and inflammation. Stomach problems are more indicative of food allergies.

Causes and treatment

The best way to improve your pet’s health and comfort is by removing or minimizing the allergen itself when possible. Some common triggers for environmental allergies are dust, pollen, mold, perfumes, cleaning products, cigarette smoke and other allergens carried by the wind that will pass with the changing of the seasons. Usually, these allergens are what causes the upper respiratory symptoms and skin irritation. If you can determine that the cause is an indoor trigger like a cleaning product or perfume, take care to keep your cat away from the trigger (or switch perfumes).

Skin allergens are most often caused by flea bites. Not only will the fleas themselves increase your pet’s scratching and discomfort, but if your dog or cat is allergic to flea saliva, their skin might suffer from even worse dermatitis. Thankfully, fleas are easy to diagnose and treat. Look for fleas and their dirt at the base of the neck and tail, where they most like to live. Then, visit a veterinarian for the right pet supplies in Saint Francisville, LA to eliminate the infestation.

Food allergies are a more serious problem and result in more acute symptoms. Vomiting and diarrhea, as well as acute swelling, inflammation or even hives, can all be symptoms of food allergies. For the most acute and scary symptoms, the veterinarian can treat your pet with an antihistamine. You’ll want to visit a clinic and make sure you only use approved pet supplies in Saint Francisville, LA before administering them to your pet.

Consult a veterinarian

The best way to determine the cause of your pet’s symptoms and find an appropriate treatment is to get your pet checked out by a licensed veterinarian. St. Francisville Animal Hospital is your destination for complete veterinary services, including emergency services for acute allergy situations. Make an appointment today to bring your pet in or purchase appropriate pet supplies in Saint Francisville, LA.

Categorised in: Puppy Training