What You Need to Know About Pet Allergies in Your Dog or Cat
Just like their human companions, pets can suffer from an array of allergies such as food allergies, seasonal allergies, and environmental allergies. Here at Animal Emergency Care of Braselton, our veterinarian believes it is essential for pet owners to be aware of the symptoms their dog and cat may exhibit when they are suffering from both minor and serious allergic reactions.
Symptoms of Common Pet Allergies
Allergies are a result of the immune system responding to certain air particles, foods, and bodily contact with substances that your furry friend is allergic or sensitive to. Some typical symptoms our Braselton vet sees in pets with allergen issues include:
- Excessive scratching, often to the point of bleeding and creating bald spots.
- Hot spots, where the skin is painful to the touch and feels warmer than usual.
- Hives, sores or scaliness on the skin.
- Signs of a skin infection or irritation, which is often sourced by flea and contact allergies.
- Watery eyes, sneezing bouts, and overall lethargic behaviors.
- Excessive grooming or gnawing on the paws.
- Sometimes the symptoms dissipate quickly and on their own. If allergy symptoms seem chronic, it’s best to let a veterinarian take a look at your pet to discover the source and help you find solutions. However, some symptoms of allergies are serious and should be seen by an emergency vet right away.
Serious Pet Allergies That Require Immediate Emergency Vet Care
Anytime your pet is clearly suffering from some type of toxin or allergen, fast action is necessary to help your pet. Serious allergen and toxin encounters can include food allergies, bites from poisonous critters, plants, and chemical contact. Some symptoms that we consider ‘serious’ include:
- Excessive Vomiting and/or Diarrhea
- Frequent Urination
- Breathing Difficulties/Excessive Panting
- Signs of Shock
- Excessive Thirst
- Foaming at the Mouth
- Swelling the Glands, Limbs or Facial Area
- Odd or Erratic Behavior
Diagnosing and Treating Pet Allergies
The location of the symptoms and any information you provide concerning their recent whereabout or any changes in their lifestyle or diet can help us hone in on the cause of their reaction. Sometimes the culprit is obvious. However, our vet has the ability to perform a simple reactive test that can pinpoint those that aren’t.
Treatment recommendations will be dependent upon the type of allergy your pet is diagnosed with by our veterinarian. Often, avoidance of their allergen is possible, but in other cases, a steroidal pill or injection may be advised to help your pet deal with chronic and seasonal allergies.
Come to Animal Emergency Care of Braselton for Allergic Reaction Emergencies
If your pet is suffering from a serious allergy attack, call us right away at 470-209-7222. You can also enjoy a discount on your visit with our new client special!
