Pet Allergy – Diagnosis and Medications
Just as a human being can develop allergies, pets can show adverse health symptoms from exposure to fleas, environmental and dietary allergens. Allergens can be inhaled, ingested, or come into contact with a pet’s skin, causing a variety of digestive, respiratory, or skin symptoms. Fortunately, there are reliable testing methods available to accurately diagnose and treat allergies in pets. Possible solutions include pet medications and hypoallergenic diets.
Diagnosis of pet allergies
Allergens and the reactions they provoke can differ from one animal to another. Reactions to dietary allergens are rare, affecting less than 10% of dogs or cats. Environmental allergens include those found indoors, such as dust mites and mold spores, and those found outdoors, such as pollen spores and grass. Animals can also be exceptionally sensitive to flea bites. Even a small amount of flea saliva can cause generalized irritations in the animal.
Pets can display a number of symptoms that may be indicative of an allergic reaction, including:
• vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Sneezing, coughing or wheezing
• Snoring caused by a swollen throat
• Swollen paws or paw chewing
• Itchy ears or ear infections
• Itchy back or base of tail
Some of these symptoms, although they are common allergic reactions, can also be indicative of other health problems. Before a pet is tested for allergies, it must be evaluated by a licensed veterinarian. After the veterinarian has determined that the animal is exposed to allergens, he can administer a sufficient allergy test.
Pet allergy medications
Human medications, such as over-the-counter antihistamines, should never be given to a pet unless specifically prescribed by a licensed veterinarian. These drugs could cause adverse effects in animals if taken alone or mixed with another drug. May cause extreme drowsiness, seizures, or other symptoms.
Pet medications will be prescribed based on individual symptoms, severity of symptoms, and any pre-existing conditions the animal may have. With regard to food allergies, the animal may be placed on a special diet that limits or eliminates the reactive ingredient. Medications, such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, or allergy shots, may be prescribed to control other allergies. For skin reactions, topical medications such as shampoos or creams may also be prescribed.
Unfortunately, as of now, there is no cure for pet allergies. However, there are treatment methods, including pet medications, that can successfully control symptoms and allow the animal to enjoy a better quality of life. A licensed veterinarian can accurately diagnose and properly treat pet allergies.
