Like us, our canine and feline friends can be allergic to certain substances in the household and the environment. And similarly, pet allergies are more than a mere nuisance; they require prompt treatment. With appropriate care, your friends at Bloomfield Animal Hospital in Lakewood, California, can restore your bestie’s quality of life while minimizing the risk of serious health complications associated with untreated skin allergies.
What is an allergy?
Known in medical circles as “atopy,” allergies are hypersensitivity reactions that arise when the skin comes in contact with an allergen or irritant. They can also arise due to something your pet eats if it is sensitive or allergic to a specific ingredient.
What are some of the most common symptoms in pets?
In addition to the “typical” red, irritated patches (rashes), pets may itch at their ears frequently or shake their heads frequently. They may be prone to frequent infections. The skin may become scaly or slough off. There may also be symptoms that resemble other conditions, such as mange; for instance, your dog’s skin may appear yellow and crusty. Hair loss may be involved, and the skin can thicken, too.
What happens if I don’t treat it?
If you don’t get ahead of the suspected allergy or problem, your pet’s skin may only become more itchy and inflamed. Dogs and cats may respond to the itch by scratching and biting so intensely and persistently that they break or traumatize the skin. Open wounds increase the risk of your pet developing a serious bacterial infection. So, something that may have been easily treated with simple avoidance measures or other easily manageable interventions may now require intensive and aggressive treatment. Plus, we know you want your pet to feel their best. You don’t want them to become so uncomfortable in their horribly itchy and inflamed skin that they no longer play, sleep, or eat – resulting in a cascade of other devastating health effects for your beloved companion.
How do you know what is causing the allergy?
There are various diagnostic services and guidance to lean into on this front. The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that the most common allergens are (in descending order) fleas, pollen, dander, molds, cleaning solutions, and other household and outdoor environmental items and food ingredients.
How does Bloomfield Animal Hospital treat these allergens?
Well, that depends on the allergen! As with human members of your household, you may be able to modify or minimize exposure to the irritating substance. Implementing modifications and establishing habits, like using a humidifier and brushing regularly, can also help. Due to the high incidence of flea allergies, staying on top of your preventatives is imperative. As needed, we can also discuss other topicals or prescription medications that ease the frequency and severity of symptoms by resolving the underlying immune system activity/response. If you are worried about your pet’s health and well-being or are simply due for a wellness visit, request an appointment today by calling our hospital in Lakewood, CA, at (562) 383-7788.
