Can Pets Have Allergies?

Can Pets Have Allergies?

Many pet parents don’t realize it, but dogs and cats can suffer from allergies just like people can.

What Are Allergies?

An allergy or allergies refers to an inappropriate immune system response that occurs as a result of the body’s exposure to an allergen (or several different allergens) which are harmless substances that the immune system mistakenly recognizes as a threat.
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Signs and Symptoms of Allergies in Pets

In pets, the signs and symptoms of allergies often look a bit different than the symptoms experienced by people. While pets can experience some respiratory discomfort as a result of allergies, with sneezing, a runny nose, coughing, and/or asthma, pets most often experience symptoms that affect their skin and gastrointestinal systems.
The most common signs and symptoms of allergies in pets include:
  • Excessive itching
  • Hives or another type of rash
  • Red, swollen skin
  • Swollen ears, eyes, nose, or face
  • Chronic ear infections
  • Vomiting and/or diarrhea

What Causes Allergies in Pets?

There are three different types of allergies in pets that are defined by the underlying cause or type of allergen that’s causing the irritation. These include:
  • Seasonal and environmental allergies (allergies to pollen, dust, smoke, fragrances, mold, etc.)
  • Flea allergy dermatitis (allergy to flea saliva)
  • Food allergies (allergy to certain proteins in food)
When diagnosing and treating allergies in pets, the first step is to determine the type of allergy the pet has.

Treating Allergies in Pets

Treatment for allergies in pets depends on the type of allergy. The best way to help your pet cope with allergies is to avoid the allergen altogether. This might include taking steps to determine the specific type of protein your pet is allergic to and providing them with an allergy-friendly diet. It might also mean keeping your pet indoors or providing them with more frequent grooming when pollen counts are high. Sometimes, however, especially with environmental allergies, avoidance isn’t entirely possible.
In these cases, your veterinarian might recommend additional treatments to help your pet get relief from symptoms with medications designed to relieve inflammation, reduce the histamine response, or control the pet’s immune system. In some cases, a veterinarian might even recommend immunotherapy injections for allergies to help improve your pet’s immune response to their specific allergens.

Managing Your Pet's Allergies With Compounded Prescription Medications

If your pet has been prescribed medications to help with allergies, our compounding pharmacy can simplify the medication administration process with pet-friendly medications. To learn more or fill your pet’s prescriptions, we welcome you to contact VetMedics Compounding Pharmacy today.
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5 Summer Skin Care Tips for Feisty Felines and Cuddly Canines

5 Summer Skin Care Tips for Feisty Felines and Cuddly Canines

You already know that you need sunscreen to protect your skin during summer, but did you realize that there are also special steps you can take to keep your pet’s skin and coat healthy during the hottest months of the year?

Top 5 Summer Skin Care Tips for Pets

1. Sunburn Prevention

You might assume that giving your pet a short haircut for summer will help them beat the heat, but going too short leaves them vulnerable to painful sunburn and skin cancer. Leave at least two inches for sun protection. Be sure to talk with your veterinarian to find out whether your pet has the type of coat that even should be trimmed in the first place. Some breeds have special double coats that are designed to protect them from the heat, and these should never be cut.

2. Guard Against Parasites

Summertime is high-season for parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworm-carrying mosquitos. Protect your pet’s skin and health by making sure your pet has a high-quality parasite preventative.

3. Avoiding Irritation

Swimming in freshwater, saltwater, and swimming pools as well as getting too many baths can all lead to skin irritation in pets. Be sure to rinse your pets after swimming to remove chemicals, bacteria, and salt from their coats, but be careful not to give them too many baths as this can strip the natural oils in their skin and fur.

4. Allergy Awareness

Many pets suffer from seasonal allergies. Allergens come in the form of pollen, mold, and even flea saliva. If your pet’s extra-sensitive to summer allergens, take care to prevent their exposure and to keep their skin and coat free from irritants with plenty of brushing and baths with gentle soap after romping around in the grass.

5. Paw Pad Protection

Whether your pet takes walks on hot cement or plays around the rough edges of a swimming pool, their paw pads are at risk of injury. Be wary of walks during the hottest times of the day and always check the temperature of the pavement with your hand. If your pet’s paws become raw, apply a special paw balm to soothe them and help them heal.

Choose VetMedics Compounding Pharmacy for Your Pet's Skin Care Needs

Whether you’re looking for the perfect parasite prevention, a topical for your pet’s sensitive skin, or a gentle shampoo for a healthy bath time, we’ve got you covered! At VetMedics Compounding Pharmacy in Ronkonkoma, we can help you find the right pet care products and pharmaceuticals to meet all your pet’s unique needs.