DOGS AND CATS CAN GET ALLERGIES, TOO!

Just like people, dogs and cats can have allergic reactions to foods or environmental factors that impact their health. Learn how to protect your pet and be able to recognize the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Would you know if your pet was having an allergic reaction? Our pets get into a lot of things that can spell real trouble. Stinging insects, food and other items they might ingest can cause serious consequences. Some signs of a severe allergic reaction include swollen eyes and face, hives on the body, and weakness. If treated early, allergic reactions typically resolve quickly but if left untreated some severe allergic reactions can progress to anaphylactic shock, collapse and sometimes death. 

Food Allergies

Your dog or cat's immune system can react to certain kinds of foods. These kind of allergies and intolerances normally have similar symptoms to environmental allergies which are primarily skin-related and/or intestine related signs. Some of the most common allergens include chicken, beef and fish proteins. A dermatologist can test your pet to better identify the cause of the allergen. A food intolerance can manifest itself in different ways including vomiting, diarrhea and decreased appetite, as well as skin-related reactions including itching, redness, chronic ear infections and self-induced trauma to the skin from chewing, scratching or licking. 

There are certain foods that are incredibly toxic and can cause adverse and even a fatal reaction for your dog or cat. 

Environmental Allergies

Does your pet constantly scratch its ears or rub its face with its paws or against the floor and furniture? Does your pet bite or lick its paws or tail furiously? These behaviors indicate your pet may have allergies.

Some signs of a severe allergic reaction include swollen eyes and face, hives on the body, and weakness. If treated early, allergic reactions typically resolve quickly but if left untreated some severe allergic reactions can progress to anaphylactic shock, collapse and sometimes death. 

Allergies, from mold spores and pollen, ingredients in diets or treats, from flea bites or other insect bites, can be a lifelong burden for your pet and cause severe dermatitis, as well as serious skin and ear infections. Allergy season now starts earlier, lasts longer and brings more intense reactions. And indoor allergens can crop up any time of year.

Treating Your Pet's Allergies

We can can recommend an effective multi-step program to manage your pet's triggers and relieve their allergy misery with a combination of medicines, injections, prescription diets, shampoos or topical treatments. ​

If you ever think your pet is experiencing an allergic reaction, please contact us at (281) 970-0601 or an emergency veterinary office immediately.

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