Allergies and Your Pet
Like humans, animals too can suffer from allergies. Seasonal, food and environmental are ways your pet can be affected. Figuring out which isn't always easy.
What is an allergy?
Allergy is a state of over-reactivity or hypersensitivity of the immune systems to a particular substance called an allergen. Most allergies are proteins. The allergen protein may be of insect, plant or animal origin.
The most common symptom associated with allergies is itching of the skin, either localized (in one area) or generalized (all over the body). Another group of symptoms involves the respiratory system with coughing, sneezing, and/or wheezing. Sometimes, there may be a runny discharge from the eyes or nose. The third manifestation involves the digestive system resulting in vomiting and diarrhea.
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Treatment of allergies largely depends on the the length of the allergy season and type of allergy.
Anti-inflammatory - treatment with cortico-steroids or antihistamines with quickly block the allergic reaction in most cases.
Shampoo therapy - Frequent bathing with a hypoallergenic shampoo can be soothing and helpful.
Hyposensitization therapy - specific antigen injections or "allergy shots".
Diet - Food trials may be recommended as well.
