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2022 GOOD HEALTH
PET HEALTH
Symptoms pet has allergies
Allergies can vary in severity and cause various symptoms . According to the Mayo Clinic , allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance by producing antibodies . These antibodies identify a particular allergen as harmful , even when it isn ’ t . Allergies can cause reactions in the skin , breathing passages and digestive system . Thousands of people experience allergies to foods , pets and environmental factors . Pets also can be susceptible to allergies . Allergies can be found in cats and dogs , according to PetMD . They also may be present in other animals . People who notice their companion animals scratching , chewing or licking themselves more than normal may find their pets have allergies . Some pets may experience gastrointestinal issues as well . The pet care information site Pet Cube says common allergens for pets can include :
• pollen from trees , grass and weeds
• food ingredients
• dust mites
• prescription medications
• fleas
• flea / tick control products
• cleaning products While their human friends may get runny noses or coughs from allergies , symptoms of allergies in cats and dogs tend to take the form of skin irritation , otherwise known as allergic dermatitis . Pet
Pets can have allergies , too . | Cover Photo by Dylan Wilson Photography
parents should look for the presence of red and irritated skin , hair loss , hot spots , and rashes or hives , in addition to extensive itching or obsessive licking . Flea allergies are one of the most common sources of allergies for pets . The bite of just one or two fleas per week is enough to cause a reaction . A pet gnawing just at the base of the tail may be suffering from fleas , although other areas may be affected , advises PetMD . Seasonal and environmental allergies or allergies to foods can result in face rubbing and licking , especially the paws . Skin or ear infections also may occur . Pets also may be allergic to one another . According to veterinarian Dr . Robert Trimble , co-founder of the San Francisco-based Fuzzy Pet Health , says he ’ s heard of dogs being allergic to cats and vice versa . The American Kennel Club urges pet parents to seek help if their pets seem to be itchy all the time . Allowing a pet to scratch or lick for extended periods of time may lead to skin infections with bacteria or yeast . While all allergies cannot be tested , elimination diets and other techniques may help pinpoint sources of allergies . It is essential to speak with a vet to determine how to relieve allergies to help pets feel more comfortable .