Pets get allergies, too. Allergic reactions can cause severe symptoms in dogs and cats. The symptoms can make their lives miserable. Fortunately, many pets respond well to treatment, even from a low cost vet. Contact our team at Oakes, Edgeley, and Ellendale Veterinary Services when your furry friend is suffering from allergies. Let’s look at a few questions that our veterinarians run into regarding pet allergies.
What Can Pets Be Allergic To?
Pets can be allergic to many of the same things that affect people. Some of the most common things pets are allergic to include specific foods, types of fabrics like wool, ingredients in detergents or shampoo, mold, mildew, and pollen. Another common allergen is the saliva of fleas. A less common but still severe allergy is tobacco smoke. Dogs and cats can also be allergic to flea collars and pesticides.
How Old Are Pets When Allergy Symptoms First Appear?
Puppies and kittens usually start showing signs of being allergic to something when they are at least six months old, but there are exceptions. Most of the time, the symptoms appear between one and two years of age.
How Are Allergies in Pets Diagnosed?
It is not always obvious what the allergen is that causes an animal’s allergy symptoms. A checkup with our veterinarians can rule out certain conditions that may cause symptoms similar to allergies. Your pet will be checked for flea bites as well. Skin scrapes and other allergy tests may be needed.
How Are Allergies in Pets Treated?
Our veterinarians will provide medication like antihistamines or corticosteroids to alleviate the symptoms. Medicated shampoos can also be prescribed. The pet may need antibiotics if the skin has been ripped open. The best way to treat pet allergies is to keep whatever is causing the allergy away from your pet. Trying to determine what is causing the allergy may take time, especially if it is suspected to be a food allergy. Your pet may need to go on a bland diet for two weeks, then add one ingredient like beef, to see if it causes a flare-up.
Get Quality Veterinary Care in Edgeley, Ellendale, and Oakes, ND
If you suspect that your pet is suffering from allergies and would like to have one of our veterinarians perform an examination, contact one of our three locations to speak with a member of our team. You can also reach us through our website by using our online contact form. Our low cost vets at Oakes, Edgeley, and Ellendale Veterinary Services will determine what is affecting your furry friend and help your cat or dog find the allergy relief it needs.
