We know allergies are miserable, but they are also unpleasant for your pets. Our beloved pets, specifically dogs and cats, can suffer from allergies which is one of the most common illnesses.
Drs. Josh and Blair Platt of Celina Veterinary Hospital in Celina maintain that allergies are the frequent reason for sick appointments. “We see itchy pets all year round,” according to Dr. Blair Platt, “No season is excluded.”
The symptoms of allergies in your pets include the obvious scratching, shaking heads, hair loss and the occasional watery eyes. The “Frito smell” (similar to the scent of the snack chip) on dogs can be an indicator of a yeast infection caused by allergies.
Drs Platt note that most of the time the allergy is environmental, like with humans. Pets can be allergic to mold and pollen year-round. Even indoor pets are exposed to allergens as people bring them into their homes. Conversely, cats are likely to suffer from food allergies.
How do you help your pet? First, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian - the earlier the better to avoid infections. Dr. Blair Platt mentions that they will check for infections, as pets, especially dogs, sometimes scratch excessively which can cause a skin infection. “We will treat with medicines when needed, but may also use over-the-counter items like shampoos, mousses, and other items to give the pet relief,” says Blair. Antihistamines like Benadryl can sometimes provide relief, but temporary and natural remedies only mask ear infections from becoming more inflamed, thereby making them more painful for dogs.
In fact, allergies usually cause ear infections. Dr. Josh Platt says that this is in part because ear canals in dogs are shaped differently than those in humans, where water can build up in dogs’ ears. “It’s the perfect place for yeast and bacteria,” he notes. Daily ear rinses can help, but you may not be able to treat the problem or clean it thoroughly without veterinary medicine.
The primary source of allergies is fleas, affecting both cats and dogs. The Platts noted, “We first make sure pets are on flea prevention medicine, even for cats, as fleas travel inside as well as on humans. We can easily control fleas.” They continue, “We highly recommend flea prevention all year because Texas doesn’t get cold enough to get rid of fleas. We still see fleas in winter!” Fleas are often present when a pet owner is unaware of them.
As previously highlighted in Celina Lifestyle, Celina Veterinary Hospital is a small animal general practice vet providing well care and sick care services with same-day appointments available. Let Celina Veterinary Hospital give your pets the allergy care they need.
515 S. Preston Road, Suite 100
CelinaVeterinaryHospital.com