Allergy Testing
Like humans, pets can develop allergies.
While you may be more likely to experience coughing and sneezing
when your allergies flare up, though, pets typically experience itchy skin.
If your dog or cat spends most of their time chewing, scratching, or licking, it could signify that they are suffering from environmental allergies. Hair loss and discolored fur are common allergy symptoms, too. Here at PetNest Animal Hospital, we perform allergy testing for pets in Friso, and we are here to help you stop the itch once and for all.
Symptoms of Allergies
in Pets
Pets can have environmental allergies or food allergies. Some pets have both! The most common symptoms of allergies in pets include:
- Itchiness
- Hair loss
- Hot spots
- Red skin or ears
- Dry skin
- Dandruff
- Oily skin and fur
- Skin infections
- Excessive grooming
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Swellingproblems
- Sneezing
Symptoms of Allergies
in Pets
Pets can have environmental allergies or food allergies. Some pets have both! The most common symptoms of allergies in pets include:
- Itchiness
- Hair loss
- Hot spots
- Red skin or ears
- Dry skin
- Dandruff
- Oily skin and fur
- Skin infections
- Excessive grooming
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Swellingproblems
- Sneezing
Questions About Allergy Testing
What Are Pet Environmental Allergies?
Environmental allergies occur when there is an exaggerated immune response to an allergen. An allergen is a protein that comes from exposure to things like tree pollen, grass pollen, dander, and flea saliva. Your pet can develop antibodies to an allergen and then overreact to it. This leads to skin inflammation and itchiness.
How Do You Diagnose and Treat My Pet’s Environmental Allergy?
Veterinarians perform allergy tests to determine what pets are allergic to. If we suspect that your pet suffers from environmental allergies, we will likely perform intradermal allergy testing to determine how they react to common allergens. Blood allergy testing is sometimes used, but it does not always provide precise results.
What Is a Food Allergy?
A food allergy occurs in your pet when there is an overreaction of the immune system to a particular ingredient in their diet. This can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms including inflammation of the skin, intestines, eyes, and respiratory system.
How Do You Diagnose and Treat My Pet’s Food Allergy?
We test for food allergies by eliminating certain ingredients from the patient’s diet. Elimination diets let us determine which ingredients in particular cause problems. We may recommend a hydrolyzed diet to reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions significantly. Our team will work closely with you to get to the root of your pet’s problem and prescribe the right course of treatment.
Pet Dermatology Care and Allergy Testing in Frisco, TX
Allergies can make your furry family member downright miserable. Fortunately, the veterinarians here at PetNest Animal Hospital can help. Call now to learn more about pet dermatology care and allergy testing in Frisco or to schedule an appointment for your precious pet.
Don’t Wait, Schedule Today!
Do you need a pet check-up in Frisco, TX?
PetNest Animal Hospital provides pet allergy testing for cats and dogs in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, Little Elm, and the surrounding areas.
Pet Allergy Testing FAQs
What are pet environmental allergies?
A pet emergency includes any sudden illness or injury that requires immediate medical attention. Common emergencies include trauma from accidents, severe allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, ingestion of toxins, and sudden, severe pain. If you are unsure whether your pet’s condition is an emergency, it is always best to contact us or bring your pet in for evaluation.
What is a food allergy?
A food allergy occurs in your pet when the immune system overreacts to a particular ingredient in their diet. This can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including inflammation of the skin, intestines, eyes, and respiratory system.
How do you diagnose and treat my pet’s food allergy?
A: We accept walk-ins for emergencies and urgent care during our normal business hours. However, please call us ahead of time so we can prepare for your arrival and provide immediate care.
Can pets develop allergies later in life?
Yes, pets can develop allergies at any age. Even if they did not show symptoms as a puppy or kitten, they could develop allergies as they grow older.
Can pet allergies be cured?
Allergies cannot be cured but can be managed effectively with the right treatment plan. This plan may include avoiding allergens, medications, and dietary changes.
Are certain breeds more prone to allergies?
Some breeds are more prone to allergies, including bulldogs, retrievers, terriers, and pugs. However, any breed can develop allergies.
What areas do you serve for pet allergy testing?
PetNest Animal Hospital provides allergy testing services for pets in Frisco, Aubrey, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Allen, Carrollton, and the surrounding areas.