How Can I Tell If My Dog or Cat Has Allergies?

Allergies are popular among humans. Many of us suffer from mild to severe life-threatening allergies. But unlike our fur babies, most of us can communicate and explain our symptoms. The way our pets communicate is through their behavior. Allergies amongst pets are more common than you may think. 

Allergy symptoms in pets may be difficult to discern. When it comes to dogs, their allergies tend to affect the areas of the body that are prone to other health issues like their skin, paws, nose, and eyes. In cats, their paws and nasal passage are the areas of irritation. Here, we discuss the symptoms and treatments. 

Signs of Dog or Cat Allergies

• Scratching
• Red or Irritated Skin
• Excessive Licking
• Puffy Eyes
• Sneezing
• Chronic soft stool
• Gland Inflammation
• Vomiting
• Hair Loss

Types of Allergies

Seasonal – Grass, mold, pollen, and dust. Sneezing, puffy eyes, scratching, and irritated or red skin are signs of seasonal allergies.

Food Allergies – Chronic soft stool, gland inflammation, itching, or frequent vomiting can be experienced with food allergies.

Flea Allergies – Inflamed, red, or irritated skin are trigged by flea allergies.

Available Allergy Treatment Options

• Oral medication
• Monthly injections
• Antihistamines
• Diet

Generally, the face, behind the ears, belly, armpit region and the paws are the locations where your pet may show the most discomfort or signs of allergies. 

What Do I Do If I Think My Dog or Cat Has Allergies?

If you believe your pet is suffering from allergies, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Self-diagnosing can lead to other undetected illnesses. A cat/dog may suffer from more than one allergy; symptoms may coincide with other disorders. We can prepare a full diagnostic evaluation to rule out other possible causes. 

It is important to address the issues with the first sign of discomfort. The more time your pet is exposed to the allergen, the longer and more intense their recovery may be. Assuming what your pet may be allergic to rather than getting a professional treatment may result in severe deformation, irritation, or permanent damage. 

Unfortunately, there is no cure for allergies in dogs and cats. Removing the allergen is the best treatment. Avoiding allergens is a challenge but there are simple steps that can be taken to help. Air filters, dusting with a damp cloth, and vacuuming frequently with a HEPA-filtered vacuum can assist in eliminating some allergens.

Why CocoPark Animal Hospital?

Our experienced, qualified, and compassionate team provides services that aid in making pets thrive.  As a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital, we offer therapeutic laser, diagnostic ultrasound, and specialty surgical services in addition to a wide variety of diagnostic services, x-ray examinations, surgical procedures, vaccinations, and wellness packages.  

Through continuing education, we stay up to date with the most recent developments within the veterinary field and are devoted to exercising compassion in all of our interactions. 

Not only do we provide quality care to your pets, but we also support and educate you as the caretaker.

How to Schedule An Appointment

Call us today at (954) 698-6722, to schedule your appointment.

Virtual appointments are also available – learn more about the virtual appointment process here, or you can also e-mail: cocoparkhospital@gmail.com

Your pets will love us, we “shih-tzu” not!