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Understanding and Treating Allergies in Pets

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Understanding and Treating Allergies in Pets

As a pet owner, you may have noticed that your furry friend is constantly scratching, biting, or rubbing against objects in your home. These symptoms could be a sign of allergies in pets, which can be uncomfortable and sometimes even dangerous for your beloved companion. At Companion Animal Health & Rehab Center (CAHRC) in Escondido, CA, we understand the importance of identifying and treating allergies in pets, so that they can live their best life with you.

What are allergies in pets?

Allergies are an overreaction of the immune system to a substance that is usually harmless, such as pollen, dust, or certain foods. Similarly to humans, pets can develop allergies to a wide variety of environmental allergens, as well as to flea bites, some types of food, and even certain fabrics. Environmental pollens and fleas are, by far, the most common sources of allergic reactions. Some of the most common symptoms of allergies in pets include:
  • Constant scratching, licking, or biting of the skin (pollen, fleas, food, fabric)
  • Redness, rash, or bumps on the skin (pollen, fleas, food, fabric)
  • Watery eyes, sneezing, or coughing (pollen)
  • Ear infections or itchy ears (food, pollen)
  • GI issues like diarrhea or vomiting (food)

It’s important to note that allergies can be a chronic condition in pets and can sometimes lead to secondary skin infections, hot spots, and hair loss if left untreated. Therefore, seeking professional help is essential to ensuring your pet’s comfort and wellbeing.

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How Are Allergies Diagnosed In Pets?

At CAHRC, our team of veterinary professionals use a combination of clinical signs, medical history, and allergy testing to diagnose allergies in pets. Depending on your pet’s specific symptoms and medical history, we may recommend blood tests or diet trials, to identify the root cause of the allergies. This information can then be used to create a customized treatment plan for your furry friend. In extreme cases we may also partner with dermatological specialists to help in your pet’s medical management.

How Are Allergies Treated In Pets?

There are a variety of treatment options available to help manage allergies in pets. At CAHRC, our team may recommend one or more of the following:

– Avoiding the allergen: In some cases, simply avoiding exposure to the allergen can help reduce symptoms. For example, if your pet is allergic to a certain type of food, eliminating it from their diet may help.
– Medications: New advances in allergy treatment include antibody management, which uses antibodies that dogs already has in their bodies to suppress itching in an extremely safe manner and medications to block specific itch receptors and decrease inflammation very quickly and safely. Other medications may include antibiotics, shampoos, flea control medications, or steroids. These medications are typically safe and effective when used as directed by a veterinarian.
– Immunotherapy: In many cases, immunotherapy (also known as allergy shots) may be recommended to help desensitize your pet’s immune system to the allergen over time.
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Encouraging Pet Owners to Seek Allergy Testing and Treatment at CAHRC in Escondido, CA

If you suspect that your pet may be suffering from allergies, don’t hesitate to contact us at Companion Animal Health & Rehab Center. Our team of veterinary professionals is dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized care to every patient we see. By identifying and treating allergies in pets, we can help improve their quality of life and help them enjoy a happier, healthier life with you. Schedule an appointment today!