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Pet Allergies

If your pet suffers from allergies, it can be important to visit our veterinarian at South Side Animal Clinic in Rolla, MO, to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Allergies can cause various symptoms in pets, including itching, skin irritation, and breathing difficulties. Depending on the severity of the allergies, they can be a minor annoyance or a primary health concern.

Pet Allergies

Types of Pet Allergies

Pets are susceptible to the same types of allergies as humans, including environmental allergies (such as pollen, dust mites, and mold), food allergies, and contact allergies (from topical medications or materials in their environment).

Environmental Allergies

Environmental allergies are a common type of allergy in pets. They can result from contact with pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and other airborne irritants. Symptoms of environmental allergies include itching, scratching, and licking of the skin, nasal congestion, sneezing, and watery eyes.

Food Allergies

Like humans, pets can be allergic to certain foods. Some of the food allergies in pets can be beef, dairy, wheat, chicken eggs, chicken, lamb, soy, fish or more. Some pets may also be allergic to certain food preservatives, flavorings, or dyes. Symptoms of food allergies include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and skin problems.

Contact Allergies

Pets can also develop allergies to certain materials they come in contact with, such as carpeting, bedding, cleaning products, and topical medications. Symptoms of contact allergies include itching, redness, and swelling of the skin.

Diagnosing Allergies in Pets

Pets with allergies may exhibit a variety of symptoms, which can make diagnosis difficult. If you suspect your pet has allergies, the first step is to visit a veterinarian for a physical examination and medical history.

Once we rule out other possible causes of your pet's symptoms, we may recommend allergy testing.

Treating Allergies in Pets

Pet care for allergies depends on the type of allergy and the severity of the symptoms. 

Mild Allergies

Our veterinarian at our animal clinic may recommend changing your pet care methods, including dieting or bathing your pet more often if they have mild allergies. She may also prescribe antihistamines or corticosteroids to help relieve symptoms.

Moderate to Severe Allergies

If your pet has moderate to severe allergies, he may require more intensive medications and precautions. This may include removing all of the allergen from your home and being extra vigilant about keeping your pet away from it.

Get Your Pet the Allergy Relief He Needs at Our Animal Clinic

If your pet is suffering from allergies, our veterinarian at South Side Animal Clinic in Rolla, MO, can help. Call (573) 426-3647 for an appointment. We look forward to helping your pet feel better.