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uch like their human owners, pets can experience allergies. These can range from mild to severe, but even minor allergies can affect your pet’s quality of life. West Park Animal Hospital provides resources on pet allergy management for pet owners throughout the Cleveland, Ohio, metropolitan area. Trust us to help your pet live comfortably with allergies.

What Are Pet Allergies?

Just like in humans, pet allergies are caused when the pet’s immune system mistakes something harmless, such as a food protein or pollen particle, for a dangerous invader. The immune system then generates a response to destroy the perceived threat. There are several types of pet allergies:

• Flea allergies
• Food allergies
• Environmental allergies

If you suspect that your pet has allergies, then you should speak with a veterinarian. Effective allergy management can help you reduce symptoms to keep your pet happy and healthy.

What Are the Signs of Pet Allergies?

Pets experience similar allergy symptoms to humans but are more likely to show them through the skin. The following signs may indicate that your pet has an allergy:

• Scratching and biting their fur or skin
• Red, swollen, or inflamed skin
• Excessive shedding
• Butt scooting or frequent licking
• Chronic ear infections
• Red, waxy-looking ears
• Compulsive paw licking (in dogs)
• Coughing or wheezing (in cats)
• Vomiting and diarrhea (for food allergies)

Very severe allergies can be considered an emergency. West Park Animal Hospital provides critical care for pets in need of emergency medical care.

Pet Allergy Diagnosis and Management

To treat pet allergies, veterinarians must first determine their cause. West Park Animal Hospital starts by ensuring that your pet is on effective flea control. This rules out a flea allergy. Next, we adjust your pet’s diet to test for common food allergies. If no food trigger can be found, then the allergy is environmental. Once the cause has been identified, your pet can begin treatment. Common strategies include:

• Flea allergies: Because only a single flea can trigger allergies, strict flea control is essential. You may need to treat your dog’s environment for fleas. Frequent bathing and topical ointments may relieve itching and prevent infection until the fleas are gone.
• Food allergies: The most effective treatment for food allergies is avoidance. Our veterinarians provide pet nutrition counseling to design a healthy diet that won’t trigger allergies.
• Environmental allergies: Oral medications, such as antihistamines, can directly relieve symptoms in pets with environmental allergies. Injected medications may also help. Frequent bathing and topical ointments help to reduce itching and distress.

Pet allergies cannot be cured, only managed long-term. With the right treatments, however, you can effectively prevent reactions and reduce their severity, leading to fewer complications and a higher quality of life for your pet.

Treat Pet Allergies Near You in Cleveland, OH

If your pet may have allergies, don’t delay their care. West Park Animal Hospital offers resources, treatment, and medical guidance for handling pet allergies effectively. Trust our compassionate team to reduce stress and symptoms in your pet, giving you peace of mind about their well-being. Contact us to learn more about pet allergy care near you in Cleveland, OH, or to schedule an appointment.

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