Friday 17 July 2009

Signs that your pet has allergies

Dogs and cats and humans all have different reactions to things they might be allergic to, so it can be difficult to know what specifically your pet is suffering from. Itchy eyes and a runny nose may be the symptoms shown by a human who is allergic to pollen, however in a dog for example this allergy shows itself in the form of intensely itchy paws.

Although some pets do show signs of an allergy through watery eyes or some sneezing, more often than not it is itching and scratching that represents an allergy. Continued scratching of course leads to welts and sores on your pet’s fur or feet that can become infected. Loss of hair is another problem caused by continued scratching.

As pets get older, the allergies can become worse so it is important to recognize the allergy early on to ensure appropriate help and treatment can be given to alleviate the suffering.

Airborne allergies are caused by inhalation of things such as pollen, molds and dust mites. Allergies from flea bites are another common problem as are direct contact with some carpet fibres or plastics, although this is more rare. Food allergies account for around 10% of allergies in pets from an ingested substance.

You can tell if an animal is suffering from an airborne allergy when some or all of the following symptoms are displayed:
  • Chewing at the feet
  • Rubbing the face
  • Inflamed or infected ears
  • Recurrent hot spots on fur
  • Wheezing or other respiratory problems
  • Licking the side and groin area
An allergy caused through contact with a man fibre or plastic produce these following symptoms:
  • Red, itchy bumps on the fur
  • Areas of hair loss
  • Constant scratching
Food allergies can be diagnosed if you pet shows any of these symptoms;
  • Itching, particularly the face, feet and limbs
  • Ear problems
  • Skin infections that return once antibiotic treatment has ended
  • Increased bowel movements
  • Soft stool
Food allergies should not be confused with food intolerances which produce generally diarrhea and vomiting.

If your pet is displaying any of these symptoms and seems to be suffering greatly, your veterinarian can help as there are treatments available to ease the symptoms.

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