Stonewater Veterinary Hospital
Allergy Care
Pet allergies are a common problem and pets who suffer from allergies can live in misery if special accommodations are not made.
Pet Allergy Care
Just as humans can develop allergic reactions to environmental elements as well as food ingredients, so too can our pets. While we cannot cure your pet’s allergy, there are ways to effectively manage and relieve allergy symptoms.
Pet allergies are a common problem, but symptoms associated with animal allergies can also be an indication of more serious pet health conditions. When necessary, our veterinary staff will perform blood work and other tests to determine the cause of your pet’s discomfort.
Symptoms of severe pet allergies
Some of the common serious allergy symptoms to look for include:
- Itchy skin – your pet may scratch their skin continually until it becomes red, irritated and bloody. Your pet may even develop “hot spots,” which are red, inflamed and moist areas where your pet has lost their fur.
- Swelling – you may see swelling develop around parts of your pet’s body that look like bumps. These areas are known as hives.
- Coughing and wheezing – this may indicate inflamed or swollen airways.
- Red, itchy, swollen eyes
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Common food allergies
Dogs and cats are most often allergic to proteins. The most common foods identified as triggers with food allergies are:
- Beef
- Dairy
- Chicken
- Wheat
- Lamb
- Less common allergens include soy, corn, egg, pork, fish, and rice.