Just like with humans, pet allergies can be irritating and can significantly reduce your animal’s quality of life. That’s why as a pet owner, it’s imperative to be aware of the potential allergies your pet can suffer from. Knowing what to look for and knowing when to contact our veterinarian in Knoxville can help you be more prepared to prevent and treat allergies. Here are a few of the most common types of pet allergies we see at our animal hospital.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis
Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) is an allergic reaction your pet may experience from flea bites. It is more common in the summer months and the most common dermatological disease domestic pets experience. A reaction happens when the flea’s saliva is injected into the host through a bite. Flea saliva contains compounds that are similar to enzymes, histamine, amino acids, and polypeptides.
Some pets can react to these compounds, which results in itching and skin irritation. When you notice symptoms of flea allergy dermatitis, you need to take your pet to our veterinarian for a professional diagnosis. We can prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication to help relieve the allergic reaction. Our veterinarian may also recommend a medicated shampoo to kill any fleas remaining on your pet.
Seasonal Allergies
We often see pets who suffer from seasonal allergies. Some of the most common symptoms of seasonal allergies may include itching, rashes, puffy eyes, sneezing, and hair loss. The best treatment for seasonal allergies is anti-histamines, such as Benadryl, which is safe for most pets to take but should only be given if recommended by our veterinarian. Before giving your pet any over-the-counter medication made for humans, it is extremely important to first speak with our vet about the recommended dosage and any other treatment he or she may need.
Airborne Allergens
Airborne allergens in pets, also known as atopy, can be caused by a wide range of inhalants, including pollen, dust, and mold. The symptoms of atopy may include frequent licking, chewing, scratching, and possible respiratory problems. It can be challenging to determine if your pet’s symptoms or reactions are caused by an airborne allergen or something else, such as food allergies or flea allergy dermatitis. Many types of allergies cause the same allergic reactions. That’s why a professional assessment by our veterinarian is essential to understand the root cause of your pet’s symptoms. It is also helpful to keep a log of when these reactions occur to help us determine the cause.
Contact Us for Allergy Treatment from Our Veterinarian in Knoxville, TN
If you believe your pet is suffering from allergies, contact Callahan Drive Animal Hospital in Knoxville to schedule an exam. Our professional staff is committed to providing pets the care they need to live long and healthy lives with their owners. Whether your pet’s allergic reaction is caused by food, the season, or something else, we can diagnose and provide the necessary care for optimal relief.