Signs Of Allergies in your pet
By Noelle King
Photo Credit: Artem Bali
Humans and pets are the two closest species with different genetic. makeups. The only other animal that rivals the phenotype and genetic makeup between cats, dogs, and humans are prime apes. The bond between humans, cats, and dogs dates back to over 16,000 years and over those years we have genetically mutated and become closer to one another. Due to this bond, dogs, and cats suffer from some of the same issues that we do such as obesity, cancer, diabetes, and even allergies. Allergic system in dogs are manifested substances or allergens as dangerous. Even though many of these allergens can be problematic for our furry loved ones when they are inhaled, ingested, or in contact with a dog or cats skin. As you pet attempts to rid their body of these harmful substances, a variety of digestive and respiratory symptoms may appear. These include, but are not limited to the following:
- Itchy, Red, or Scabbed Skin
- Increased Scratching
- Itchy, Runny Eyes
- Itchy Back or Base of the tale (most commonly flea allergy)
- Sneezing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Snoring Caused by an inflamed throat
- Paw Chewing/Swollen Paws
- Constant Licking
Dogs and cats that suffer from allergies may also suffer from secondary bacterial or yeast skin infections. These infections may cause hair loss, scabs, or crusts on the skin. A dog can develop allergies at any time in their life. Allergic reactions seem to be especially common in Terrier, Setters, Retrievers and falt fasces breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers. Below is a list of common allergens that can irritate your furry friend:
- Tree, Grass, and Weed Pollens
- Mold Spores
- Dust and House Dust Mites
- Dander
- Feathers
- Cigarette SMoke
- Food Ingredients
- Prescription Drugs
- Fleas and Flea-control Products
- Perfumes
- Cleaning products
- Fabrics
- Insecticidal Shampoo
- Rubber and Plastic Materials
How to Properly Diagnose Your Pet With Allergies
If your pet's itchy, red or irritated skin persists beyond the initial treatment by a veterinarian, then you may want to seek a second opinion from a veterinary dermatologist. Diagnostic testing such as an intradermal skin test can be performed to determine in your pet has allergies. The diagnostic test to determine is an intradermal skin test similar to the one performed on human beings. The only way to accurately diagnose a food allergy in your pet is to feed your dog a hydrolyzed protein diet exclusively for 12 weeks. It is imperative that you do not deviate from this meal plan. This diet will be free of potential allergy-causing ingredients, and will ideally have ingredients that your dog has never been exposed to. Your pet should remain on this diet until their symptoms go away, at which time you'll begin to reintroduce the old foods to see which ones may be causing the allergic reaction. Please note, that many dogs diagnosed with a food allergy will require home cooked meals. Be sure to work with your veterinarian, as dealing with a diagnosis requires careful food balancing.
Treatment
The best way to treat your pet's allergies is to remove the offending allergens from the environment. Prevention is the best treatment for allergies caused by fleas. Remember that outdoor pets carry fleas inside to indoor pets, so see your veterinarian for the best flea control. If dust is the problem, clean your pet's bedding once a week and vacuum it at least twice weekly. This includes vacuuming rugs, curtains and other materials your pet may come into contact with. Weekly bathing may help to relieve itching and remove environmental allergens and pollen from your dog's skin. Overall, your pet's health should be a top priority to you so be sure to do all that you can do to ensure that your furry loved one can have the best life possible.
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