Allergy Information & Treatments: Pet Owners in Massachusetts
Most people think of persons who are allergic to pets when they consider the topic of allergies and pets. However, similar to humans, pets might be susceptible to allergic reactions due to environmental factors and climatic shifts. Although, like humans, cats and dogs sneeze involuntarily in response to an allergen, you may be surprised to learn that their allergy symptoms are rather distinct from ours. Seasonal allergies can cause dry skin in cats and hot spots in dogs. If a pet owner in New Bedford notices their pet is biting or scratching herself more than normal, they should make an appointment with their preferred veterinarian in South Coast. A secondary infection brought on by constant biting or scratching might manifest as red, puffy skin. It is essential to pinpoint the root of skin irritation, be it dryness, allergies, or parasites.
New Bedford Veterinary Care
Similarly to people, cats and dogs are susceptible to developing seasonal allergies to a wide variety of environmental factors. Grass, pollen, mold spores, and other environmental irritants may fall under this category. Allergies are more common in domesticated animals than in wild ones. Many people think this is because domesticated animals’ immune systems have been compromised by hundreds of years of indoor life with humans. Indicators that your pet is experiencing allergy problems might vary widely depending on the underlying reason. There are a wide variety of allergy symptoms, the most common of which are coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and dry, itchy skin. Because many of these symptoms can also be signals of more serious health conditions, such as asthma and upper respiratory infections, it is vital to bring your pet in for a checkup instead of presuming they are allergies.
Scratching is a common behavior in animals with dry skin, and it can cause further issues. Hot spots, shedding, and balding are just as much of a worry as open wounds and infections. When it comes to keeping your pet’s allergies under control, your South Coast veterinarian is your best resource for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. If allergies aren’t to blame and your pet is experiencing other problems, New Bedford has an option for temporary housing for dogs during the off season. Flea bites, flea dirt, and other common parasites, such as ticks, can also contribute to dry skin and severe scratching in dogs and cats. If your veterinarian is unable to identify the offending allergens just by examining your pet, he or she may recommend intradermal skin testing.
Seasonal Pet Allergies
If your pet suffers from allergies, you should not give it an over-the-counter drug meant for people. Many of these items are highly harmful to the wellbeing of your pet. New Bedford pet owners may be advised by their veterinarian to use antihistamines like Benadryl, as well as antibiotics for infections and topical treatments for hot areas, to their cat or dog. Never administer these drugs without supervision. Consult your South Coast veterinarian regularly for advice and dose information. You might be doing more damage than good by overdosing your pet with a treatment that only helps with particular allergies. However, there are alternative methods that may be used to safely and effectively alleviate your pet’s discomfort throughout allergy season.
Shampoos and baths for cats and dogs include oats and other natural components that can reduce skin irritations. There are also excellent shampoos available on the market that are designed to treat allergies. Some pets may be more cooperative throughout the bathing process if they learn that the shampoo has a calming effect. Many animals suffer from allergies that need regular ear cleaning. Using mild wipes to keep your pet’s ears clear of allergens is an easy way to reduce the likelihood of your pet developing an ear infection. If you know what triggers your pet’s allergies, you may try to keep them away from it. If grasses are the issue, fake grass can be planted in the backyard or grassy places should be avoided. Before going inside, wipe your pet’s paws off with a moist, non-toxic wipe to eliminate pollen, grass, and other potential allergens.
Pets with Allergies in New Bedford
If a New Bedford resident has any reason to worry about the health of their cat or dog, they should not hesitate to make an appointment with their preferred veterinarian in South Coast. Common problems including dry skin in dogs and cats, parasite prevention, vaccines, seasonal allergies, and more may be addressed by contacting Anchor Animal Hospital in Dartmouth. Schedule an appointment or receive additional seasonal pet care advice in New Bedford by calling our helpful veterinarian staff at 508-996-3731.