Does My Dog or Cat Have Allergies? Common Signs of Pet Allergies
Sneezing, skin irritation, a runny or stuffy nose. As a human, you know that these symptoms usually signify that you are dealing with allergies. What you may not know is, just like you, your dog or cat can have allergies. Pet allergies do not always show up in the same ways as they do for humans, but there can be similarities. At Amigo Animal Hospital, veterinarian in Westminster serving Seal Beach and Huntington Beach in California, we help a lot of pet parents with their pets' allergies. Here are a few signs to watch for in your dog or cat.
1. Vomiting, Diarrhea, and Other Stomach Problems
Both dogs and cats can have allergies to certain components in their food. Unfortunately, when a pet is allergic to something he is eating, he will usually have problems with vomiting, diarrhea, or other digestive issues. Food allergies are typically treated by eliminating certain ingredients from the pet's diet.
2. Eye Irritations
You may notice your dog or cat's eyes are red and irritated or watering more than usual. You may see your pet pawing at his eyes as if they are itching or burning. These are fairly definitive signs that something in the pet's environment is causing a reaction. For instance, a dog may be allergic to a fragrance product you are using in the house or a cat may be allergic to a grooming product you've been using.
3. Hair Loss or Skin Problems
Dogs are especially prone to having issues with contact dermatitis, which is essentially irritation caused by skin allergies. However, cats can also show signs of allergies on their skin. Some of the most frequent ailments that come along with contact dermatitis include:
- Hair loss
- Excessive itching or biting on the skin
- Redness or hot spots on the skin
- Flaking or abrasions
- Rash
Pets that have an allergy to fleas can develop any one of these symptoms, but other allergens can cause similar issues.
4. Sneezing or Coughing
Perhaps one of the most trademark symptoms of allergies among both humans and pets is sneezing and coughing. If your dog or cat has allergies, he can experience a dry and itchy throat, which means he may cough. Likewise, collections of allergens in the nasal passages can cause frequent sneezing.
Work with a Veterinarian in Westminster for Pet Allergy Treatment
If your pet has allergies, getting the proper treatment can help him feel much better in his everyday life. Treatment can involve oral medications, allergy shots, and other things provided by your veterinarian. Contact us at Amigo Animal Hospital in Westminster, CA to schedule an appointment if you believe your pet has allergies.