Allergies and Dermatology

Our veterinarians are trained to diagnose and treat skin, ear, hair and nail disorders in dogs and cats. Pets, much like humans, can experience various dermatological issues, from skin irritations to food sensitivities. We offer personalized treatment plans to help your pet live comfortably and allergy-free. Schedule a consultation to learn how we can improve your pet’s quality of life.” Regular dermatological care helps ensure that pets are comfortable, healthy, and free of skin-related discomfort.

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Allergies in Pets

One of the most common dermatological issues for pets are allergies. Pets, just like humans, can have allergies, and can develop allergic reactions to various substances, including environmental allergens, food, or flea bites.

If you suspect your pet has allergies or if your pet exhibits any of the following symptoms, it’s important to contact us. Our veterinarians may recommend tests, such as skin tests, blood tests, or food elimination trials, to determine the specific allergen and prescribe appropriate treatment, such as antihistamines, special diets, or allergy shots.

General Symptoms of Allergies in Pets:

Chronic Ear Infections: Especially in dogs, ear infections are often linked to allergies.
Sneezing: Common in cats, along with watery eyes or nasal discharge.
Hives: Raised bumps on the skin can sometimes indicate an allergic reaction.
Respiratory Symptoms: While rarer, some pets may develop coughing or wheezing, especially with environmental allergies.
Itchy Skin: Pets may scratch excessively, especially around the face, paws, ears, and abdomen.
Red, Inflamed Skin: The skin may become red and irritated from scratching.
Hair Loss: Repeated scratching can lead to bald patches.
Runny Eyes and Sneezing: Some pets, especially cats, may show symptoms similar to hay fever.
Licking or Chewing Paws: Pets may obsessively lick or chew their paws

Common Types of Allergies and Common Symptoms of Allergies in Pets Include:

Environmental Allergies (Atopy)

Causes: Environmental allergens include pollen, dust mites, mold, grass, and other airborne substances.
Symptoms:
- Itchy Skin: Pets may scratch excessively, especially around the face, paws, ears, and abdomen.
- Red, Inflamed Skin: The skin may become red and irritated from scratching.
- Hair Loss: Repeated scratching can lead to bald patches.
- Ear Infections: Recurring ear infections are common in allergic pets.
- Runny Eyes and Sneezing: Some pets, especially cats, may show symptoms similar to hay fever.

Licking or Chewing Paws: Pets may obsessively lick or chew their paws

Food Allergies

Causes: Common food allergens include proteins like chicken, beef, dairy, wheat, and soy. Food allergies can develop at any time, even if the pet has been eating the same food for years.
Symptoms:
- Itchy Skin: Itching, particularly around the face, ears, paws, and rear end.
- Chronic Ear Infections: Recurring ear issues are a typical symptom.
- Digestive Problems: Vomiting, diarrhea, or gas may occur.
- Weight Loss or Poor Coat Condition: Pets may have difficulty maintaining weight or develop a dull coat.
- Hot Spots: Areas of inflamed skin from excessive licking or scratching.

Flea Allergies (Flea Allergy Dermatitis)

Causes: Pets with flea allergies react to flea saliva, leading to severe itching from even a single bite.
Symptoms:
- Intense Itching: Pets will scratch, bite, or chew their skin, especially around the base of the tail, belly, and legs.
- Red Bumps or Scabs: Small bumps, scabs, or sores may appear on the skin due to the intense itching.
- Hair Loss: Pets may lose fur in areas they scratch excessively.
- Secondary Infections: Open wounds from scratching may become infected.

Contact Allergies

Causes: Contact allergies occur when a pet’s skin reacts to substances they touch, like certain shampoos, cleaners, fabrics, or plants.
Symptoms:
- Localized Itching: Typically occurs where the skin has had direct contact with the allergen (e.g., belly, paws).
- Red, Irritated Skin: Skin may become red, inflamed, or develop rashes.
- Swelling: In some cases, the area of contact may become swollen.

Itching, redness, hair loss, rashes?

Itchy, scratchy pet? We can help! If you suspect your pet has allergies or if your pet exhibits any of the following symptoms, it’s important to contact us. Our veterinarians may recommend tests, such as skin tests, blood tests, or food elimination trials, to determine the specific allergen and prescribe appropriate treatment, such as antihistamines, special diets, or allergy shots.