An allergy is when the body’s immune system reacts badly to something to which it has become hypersensitive.
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What causes allergies?
Your pet could be allergic to pollen, fleas, grass, house dust mites, weeds, mildew, cat, or even food. No, it doesn’t matter that he’s always eaten the same things. He can still become allergic to one of the things in it.
Read More: Winterize Your Pet
How do I know my pet has allergies?
There are many ways that allergies can show up. It can show up as watery eyes, sneezing, or rubbing the face. It can also be much worse, causing hives, welts, a swollen face, or the inability to breathe.
But it can also be in the middle, with chronic ear infections, chronic infections between the toes, persistent foot licking, general itching, and even doing the carpet scooting boogie.
How are allergies in pets treated?
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment. There are numerous ways allergies can be treated. The treatment will depend on how bad the allergy is and what you and your vet decide about side effects, costs, and how well you can care for your pet.
- Simple allergies can be treated with over-the-counter antihistamines as directed by your veterinarian.
- More complex or severe allergies may require prescription pills or monthly injections.
- Until several years ago, this treatment was unavailable and has become a game changer in the allergy world, providing pets with much-needed relief.
- A special diet will be required if your pet has a food allergy.
Can allergies be cured?
Pet owners may have unrealistic expectations about allergies. Allergies are not something you cure! Please re-read that previous sentence. Allergies are not fixed but instead managed, except for some long-term immunotherapy. The goal is to have fewer and less severe reactions over the life of your pet.
There are times when the pollen count of your pet’s allergen may be higher than typical, causing your pet to have a breakthrough attack and to start scratching, possibly developing a sore or secondary bacterial infection, which must be treated.
Read More: Signs Your Pet Needs Emergency Vet Care
