Pet allergies are a common concern for many pet owners. They can affect pets year-round and cause a variety of symptoms that can impact a pet's quality of life. Before you visit Magnolia Animal Hospital in Raleigh, NC, for care, learn about some of these allergies below:

Environmental Allergies

Environmental allergies are among the most common year-round allergies in pets. These allergies include reactions to dust mites, mold spores, and pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. Pets with environmental allergies often experience symptoms such as itching, redness, and inflamed skin, as well as respiratory issues like sneezing and coughing.

Food Allergies

Food allergies can also occur in pets at any point in the year. Common allergens include beef, dairy, chicken, and grains. Some signs of food allergies can include gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and diarrhea. Your cat or dog may also experience skin issues like hives, ear infections, and hair loss.

Flea Allergies

Flea allergies are a specific type of allergy that can cause significant discomfort for pets. Those with flea allergies are hypersensitive to flea saliva, which can lead to severe itching, redness, and skin infections. Even a single flea bite can trigger an intense allergic reaction in sensitive animals.

Contact Allergies

Contact allergies happen when a pet's skin comes into direct contact with allergens like certain shampoos, cleaning products, or plants. These allergies typically cause redness and swelling at the site of contact. Identifying and avoiding the allergen is key to managing contact allergies.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing pet allergies involves a thorough examination by our veterinarians, including a detailed history of the pet's symptoms and environment. We may also recommend allergy testing, such as blood tests or intradermal skin tests, to identify specific allergens. Then, we will suggest the necessary treatment, which may include medications, dietary changes, and environmental modifications to reduce exposure to allergens.

Managing Pet Allergies

Effective management of year-round pet allergies requires a comprehensive approach. Regular veterinary check-ups, consistent flea control, a balanced diet, and a clean living environment are essential components. Working closely with our vets can help develop a tailored plan to keep your cat or dog comfortable and healthy.

Contact Magnolia Animal Hospital for an Appointment Today!

If your pet is experiencing allergies, let our team at Magnolia Animal Hospital in Raleigh, NC, at (919) 873-9190 today. We are happy to tell you more about our treatments and set you up with an appointment. When you need a veterinarian near me, we look forward to assisting you!