Allergies
Just like their human owners, pets can develop allergies. Here's how you can help your pet.
Allergic reactions are common in dogs and cats and can be attributed to many causes.
Allergies fall into five main types.
a) Flea Allergy
It is important to treat your pet for fleas as soon as an infestation becomes apparent. The longer you leave treatment, the more likely your pet is to become irritated and allergic to the flea’s saliva when it bites your pet’s skin.
At Summerhill we would advise preventative treatment so that your pet does not suffer unnecessarily. Once you have a flea infestation it is very difficult to eradicate the problem. Our Pet Health Club includes all the flea treatment your pet will require for a full twelve months.
b) Food Allergy
Like their human owners, pets can also become allergic to certain foods. They may scratch and have an upset tummy. They may lose weight, become hyperactive, lack energy or become aggressive. They may have recurrent ear problems.
Foods to be wary of are dairy products, beef and gluten, proteins and additives. If you know these are included in your pet’s diet try removing them and see if there is an improvement. If you own more than one pet, take extra care that you keep pets separate when feeding so that they only eat their own food!
Alleviating symptoms for allergies may include may include several different treatments, these can be discussed with your vet to find the best option for your pet.
If you think your pet may be suffering an allergy then please contact us for advice. Telephone 01633 255394. If need be, there are blood tests available to check for allergies.
c) Contact on the skin
Pets can suffer contact dermatitis as they brush against plants in the garden or pick up pollen whilst out on walks from trees, grasses and from coming into contact with household products such as washing powder and cleaning products. An allergic reaction often does not show symptoms immediately so it is more difficult to find out the cause. Sometimes just a bath to remove allergens can help. Speak to one of our veterinary nurses for more information. Telephone 01633 255394.
d) Airbourne Allergens
Pets may show symptoms such as sneezing, coughing or heavy laboured breathing.
Pets can be irritated by smoke, air fresheners and various hayfever related inhalants.
Treatment for airbourne allergens may include several different treatments, these can be discussed with your vet to find the best option for your pet.
e) Stings and Bites
Insects can inflict stings and bites that cause allergic reactions. Any stings or bites on the face or mouth should be treated as serious and you should contact us to let us know that you are bringing your pet in to be seen as quickly as possible.
If you think your pet may be suffering an allergy then please contact us for advice. Telephone 01633 255394. If need be, there are blood tests available to check for allergies.
