Pet Allergies & Dermatology

If your pets have been scratching or itchy lately, it might be an indication that they are suffering from allergies.
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Pet Allergies & Dermatology

Pet allergies can be difficult to diagnose and troublesome to treat. Luckily, many veterinarians, such as The Animal Hospital of Smithson Valley in Spring Branch, TX, regularly treat pet allergies. Below, let’s look more in-depth at pet allergies, and learn how a veterinarian can help.

Common Allergens
Just like with people, pets can be allergic to environmental, food, flea, and contact conditions. Pollens, weeds, trees, dust mites, mildew, and mold are the most common allergens outdoors. Flea bites can trigger a reaction due to pets being allergic to the saliva of the flea. Certain ingredients in pet foods and treats can cause allergies. Common household products like shampoos, soaps, rubber, wool, and plastic can also make your pets have an allergic reaction.

Signs of Allergies
Depending on the type of allergy your furry animals have, symptoms can vary. Food allergies typically appear as gastrointestinal distress, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Environmental allergies appear very similar to human allergies. Your pets may have a runny nose, coughing, sneezing, and puffy eyes. You may notice your pets chewing or licking their paws, and repeatedly scratching at the area where it is irritating. The fur may appear thin, or completely worn away. Your animals might also start rubbing their noses along surfaces, trying to scratch at their face. Sometimes, in severe cases, your pets can even cause the irritated area of the skin to appear bloodied or scabbed. If allergies become too severe, veterinary intervention may be required to help prevent infection.

How A Veterinarian Can Help

If you suspect your pets are suffering from allergies, our veterinarians can perform an evaluation. Our veterinarian may conduct an allergy or blood test to help determine what may be causing the symptoms. Once they have confirmed the diagnoses, treatment can begin. There are several allergy medications available to help with the symptoms, such as corticosteroids and antihistamines. Formulated shampoos, topical therapies, and allergy shots can also help reduce the symptoms of allergies.

The veterinary team at The Animal Hospital of Smithson Valley in Spring Branch, TX is dedicated to keeping your pets happy and healthy. We are knowledgeable and caring in treating each pet as if he or she were our own. To learn more about how our animal hospital can help manage your pet’s allergies or to schedule an appointment, call us today at 830-438-8885. We are always accepting new patients, and look forward to treating your pets.