Signs Your Pet Has Allergies
How can you tell if your pet has allergies? If his skin is irritated, he has a rash, or is even losing hair, allergies could be to blame. While scratching seems obvious, there are plenty of signs to watch for that can tell you if your pet has allergies. Scratching alone is not enough, since this could indicate your pet has any number of different conditions or is just itchy! Our West Palm Beach veterinarian here at All Care Animal Clinic pulled together these tips to help you determine if your pet is suffering from allergies.
Scratching and chewing
If your pet is scratching, chewing at his skin, or seems to have irritation, allergies could be to blame. Flea allergies are common, and any topical product that gets on his skin or fur could trigger an allergic reaction.
Sneezing
Cats and dogs can get seasonal allergies, just like humans. These will be identified by timing. The spring is the most common time for seasonal allergies for both pets and humans. If you notice these symptoms seem to appear only certain times of year, your pet could be reacting to a specific plant, pollen, or other factor.
Stomach Upset or Distress
Food allergies can cause vomiting and diarrhea, if the food has an ingredient your pet is allergic to. Many foods contain multiple proteins, so careful label reading and eliminating one ingredient at a time can help you determine if his diet is to blame. Fish, chicken, or beef could be triggering your pet's allergic reaction, or it could be a problem with the grain included in the food.
If you suspect your pet has an allergy or other dermatological problem, it is time to schedule an office visit. We can help determine what is going on, develop a plan to discover what’s ailing your pet and best of all, give him some relief from the symptoms. There are many ways to prevent pet allergies, so your pet can usually find quick relief in a single visit. Contact us today at All Care Animal Clinic to set up a time to be seen and take the first step towards a more comfortable life for your pet.