Can Your Pet Get Allergies?

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The more you learn about your pets the more you realize they’re just like the people members of your family. That’s the way it is with pet allergies. Cats and dogs are allergic to some of the same irritants that make humans itch and sneeze. Pet allergens might include feathers, dust mites, and pollen. Your pets might also react badly to a number of other substances inside your home.

  • Fleas
  • Mold or mildew
  • Cigarettes or other smoke
  • Cleaning products
  • Chlorine and other chemicals
  • Medications
  • Treated fabric

Unfortunately, your pet can’t escape his pet allergies by going outside. Depending on the season and outdoor conditions, contaminants such as mold and pollen can cause a variety of unwelcome allergic reactions.

Pet Allergy Symptoms

The symptoms vary as well. While your cat might suffer from multiple symptoms, the same allergens may trigger only one symptom in your dog. These may include:

  • Itchy skin
  • Watery eyes
  • Sneezing
  • Wheezing
  • Infections
  • Ear discharge

Food Allergies or Food Sensitivities?

As the AKC explains, when your dog has a reaction to food, it’s often a food sensitivity and not an allergy. Sensitivities cause vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes they cause itchy skin and infections.

Treating Your Pet’s Allergies

Your pet doesn’t simply inhale allergens, they settle into his fur and irritate his eyes. Fleas, pollen, household products, chemicals, and other contaminants continue to irritate your pet as long as they maintain contact with your pet.

Watching your furry friend react to allergens in the environment can leave you just as frustrated as he is. To make both of you feel better, you should contact your veterinarian as soon you notice what you believe to be an allergic reaction.

Your vet can examine your pet and determine the best solution for his condition. Your pet’s allergy treatments might include:

  • A soothing bath: Your pet’s usual soap along with water might be the best way to wash away the contaminants that are driving both of you crazy. Your vet can tell you if you require a special wash or a topical treatment for skin irritations.
  • Cleaning out your pet’s ears: Your vet has the right tools to get a good look inside your pet’s ears. A simple cleaning might be all his ears need, but your vet may prescribe eardrops or a wash if necessary.
  • Eye solutions: If your pet’s eyes are itchy, your veterinarian may prescribe drops or a rinse to soothe them and ease the irritation.
  • Medication: Depending on the allergen, your vet may prescribe medication or give him a shot.
  • Special Diet: If your pet’s food is a concern, instead of conducting costly food-switching experiments, talk to your veterinarian. Your vet can examine and diagnose your pet. If he needs a change in his diet, she can recommend the healthiest food choice.

Contact Hebron Veterinary Hospital

Visit our contact page or give us a call at (860) 228-4324 if you’re concerned that your cat or dog might be experiencing pet allergies.