Is your pet constantly scratching their skin, licking their paws, or rubbing their face? These behaviors might be more than just a harmless itch. Your pet could have allergies. Cats and dogs can suffer from a range of allergic reactions that affect their skin, digestion, and comfort. It can be frustrating to watch your pet struggle with symptoms you can’t explain. The good news? Allergy management has come a long way, and relief is as close as PetNest Animal Hospital.
What’s the Difference Between Allergies and Grooming?
All pets groom themselves, but allergies can cause excessive behaviors that become hard to ignore. If your dog is chewing their paws raw or your cat constantly grooms one area until it’s bald, something more may be going on. Look for these signs of possible allergies in pets:
- Constant scratching or licking
- Red, inflamed skin
- Recurrent ear infections or head shaking
- Hair loss or scabbing
- Consistent scooting or rubbing on the floor
- Gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea
If your pet shows one or several of these symptoms, allergies could be to blame.
Types of Allergies in Pets
Pet allergies fall into a few major categories.
Environmental Allergies
These allergies include reactions to pollen, mold spores, dust mites, or grass, similar to hay fever in humans. Pets often show seasonal flare-ups with red, itchy skin.
Contact Allergies
While rarer, some pets develop irritation from contact with specific materials. These reactions typically occur where the substance touches the skin, like the belly, paws, or face.
Food Allergies
Food allergies and sensitivities in pets often cause skin issues or digestive upset. Proteins such as beef, chicken, or dairy are some possible triggers.
Your veterinarian may take one or several approaches to diagnosis. They will ask for a detailed history of symptoms and environment. Skin scrapings or cytology may be used to rule out other potential causes, like parasites or skin infections. If allergies are truly suspected, a vet may offer allergy testing in the form of blood tests, intradermal testing, and/or elimination diet trials, depending on the diagnostics available and what type of allergies are suspected.
Long-Term Management for Your Pet’s Allergy
Although allergies can’t be “cured,” they can be successfully managed with the right plan. Your pet’s veterinarian will discuss the best methods, from medications to anti-itch injections (for dogs) to specialized diets. Environmental adjustments may also need to be made in order to make life more comfortable for your pet. Each pet is different. Allergy treatment plans will vary based on your pet’s needs and response to individual treatment.
Allergy Care for Pets in Frisco, TX
Pet allergies can be challenging, but your companion doesn’t have to suffer. PetNest Animal Hospital offers allergy testing and treatment in Frisco and for pets from neighboring areas like Plano, Little Elm, and The Colony. If your pet is itching their skin, licking themselves, or has other symptoms that could be an allergy, it’s best to get them evaluated sooner rather than later. Book an appointment for an allergy consultation with our veterinarians.