If April showers bring May flowers, then what does May bring?
ALLERGIES
What are allergies? Allergies are damaging responses by the immune system to environmental substances or foods that would normally seem ok for your pet.
What are the signs and symptoms that your pet may have chronic allergies? Itching, chronic ear infections, rashes, dry skin, gastrointestinal issues, excessive tears, sneezing, and asthma.
Allergies are broken down into 3 categories: Atopic Dermatitis can be seasonal or year-round and can be caused by mold, dander, flea’s, pollen or other environmental factors. Respiratory that can be from your cat or dog developing sensitivities to particles in the air. Food Allergies that come from eggs, dairy, and the most common proteins chicken or beef.
In order to determine if your pet is suffering from allergies, you must first have them evaluated by your veterinarian who can then create a treatment plan. The most important part of the treatment plan is finding the exact cause of the allergy which most often happens by submitting blood samples to the laboratory for specific allergy testing. This test can be done at most veterinarians offices. There are many options for the treatment of allergies in most all pets. Some pet’s require diet changes, steroids, or other medications to treat and maintain their allergies.
If you have any questions regarding your pet and allergies, make sure you speak to your veterinarian.
