Pet Allergies


Pet allergies are often difficult to diagnose and tough to treat. The signs and symptoms of allergies can be confused with other diseases and even parasites. Understanding the triggers of allergens and what causes them can help get your pets the right treatment quickly. Below, let's take a look at pet allergies in more detail, and understand when it is time to see our veterinarian at St Francis Hospital For Animals, serving Oakdale and Sayville.

Pet Allergies

Symptoms of Pet Allergies

Different allergies take different forms in pets, just like with people. Environmental allergies and seasonal allergies often take the form of skin irritations. You may notice your animals biting and chewing at their legs or arms. Your companion pets might also excessively scratch at areas of the body where the irritation is coming from. Loss of fur, inflamed skin, scabbing, or bleeding at the site can occur as well. Seasonal allergies take the form of coughing, wheezing, or a runny nose. Food allergies may manifest themselves as digestive distress. You may notice your furry friends have diarrhea or vomiting when eating certain foods.  

Pet Allergy Causes

As with people, there are a number of allergens present in the world that can cause allergies in your pets. The changing seasons often release different pollens or spores that can irritate your pets. Other allergies can be caused by various conditions within the home, such as smoke, fragrant cleaners, laundry detergent, or even dust.  Remember that food allergies can be triggered by both your animals’ food and treats, so be sure to monitor their diet if you suspect a food allergy.  

When to See a Veterinarian

If your pets are showing patches of skin where the fur has been rubbed off, or the skin is red and inflamed, it may be time to see our veterinarian. Furthermore, if the skin appears to be scabbed or bloodied, you should seek treatment right away. Open, large wounds are the perfect site for dangerous bacteria to enter the body, which can cause an infection. 

Depending on the allergen your animals are experiencing, our veterinarian may prescribe allergy medication to help ease the symptoms. The allergy medicine may be in the form of pills, which can be taken once or twice daily. Changing your pets’ diet with a hypoallergenic one can help if they have a food allergen.

At St. Francis Hospital For Animals, serving Oakdale and Sayville, we want your pets to be as healthy and happy as possible. A pet suffering with allergies may feel miserable, constantly scratch, or get sick. We are here to help.  Our team is professional, knowledgeable, and ready to treat your pets’ allergies today. Call us at (631) 567-1359 to schedule an appointment.  

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