What Causes Pet Allergies?
Allergies can come from anywhere, and at times it can be frustrating for pet owners to watch their furry friend suffer and not know what’s causing it. Pets can be prone to environmental allergies. This can be allergens found in the environment outside, or within the home. A pet may be sensitive to certain detergents used to launder his or her bed, dust within the home, or cigarette smoke. Additionally, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies. These can be caused by certain pollens or spores released into the air. Lastly, pet allergies can also be food-related. It is important to remember that both your pet's food and treats can impact your pet's allergies.
What Are The Symptoms of Pet Allergies?
Symptoms can appear in several forms in your pet. For seasonal allergies, your pet may have congestion. This could be coughing, sneezing, or wheezing. Your pet may have watery eyes or a runny nose. Environmental allergies sometimes take the form of skin irritations. The skin may appear red or irritated and your pet may react with constant scratching, itching, or biting. As for food allergies, those often take the form of intestinal distress with your pet experiencing diarrhea or vomiting.
How Can a Veterinarian Help With Pet Allergies?
One of the best ways to work through questions you may have about allergies is to simply talk to our veterinarian. Often, working with a veterinarian will help you identify certain triggers within your pet's environment which may be contributing to his or her allergies. Our veterinarian will also be able to rule out the potential for bacteria or parasites causing the symptoms. Luckily, there is allergy medication that can eliminate or significantly mitigate the signs and symptoms associated with pet allergies. This medication can be taken orally and is often only required when your pet exhibits signs of allergy irritation.
At Bridges Professional Park Animal Hospital, based in Morehead City, we are proud to have a team of dedicated, caring, and knowledgeable professionals to provide veterinary care for the community. We understand that pet allergies can be frustrating for both you and your pet. We work together with our clients and furry patients to find solutions to eliminate or mitigate pet allergies. To learn more about how we can help, or to schedule an appointment, call us today at (252) 247-5595.