As the flowers bloom and the weather warms up, it’s not just us humans who feel the effects of the change in seasons. Our beloved pets can also suffer from seasonal allergies, food allergies, environmental triggers, and even flea allergies during springtime.
While we often associate allergies with sneezing and runny noses, our furry friends can manifest their allergies in different ways, making it crucial for pet parents to pay close attention to unusual symptoms.
Signs of Pet Allergies You Might Not Expect
Chronic Ear Infections
Surprisingly, chronic ear infections can be a sign of allergies in dogs and cats. Sometimes, this might be the only visible symptom, especially in cases of food allergies or allergic dermatitis.
Excessive Licking, Chewing, and Biting
Allergies can drive pets crazy with itchiness, leading them to lick, chew, and bite their skin excessively. This behavior can result in skin damage, including redness, wounds, and scarring, making the skin more prone to infections.
Rubbing and ‘Scooting’
Have you caught your pet scooting or rubbing against furniture? While impacted anal glands are a common cause, allergies can also trigger this behavior as pets attempt to relieve itchiness.
Vomiting and Diarrhea
Digestive issues like vomiting and diarrhea could be linked to food allergies in pets. It’s not always the first thing that comes to mind, but allergies can indeed affect their tummy.
Snoring
Yes, pets snore too! Snoring in pets could be a result of environmental allergies causing congestion, making it harder for them to breathe comfortably.
Swollen or Sensitive Paws
Allergies can even impact your pet’s paws, leading to swelling or increased sensitivity, indicating a potential allergic reaction.
Identifying allergies in pets can be tricky, often requiring a process of elimination to reach a diagnosis. Your veterinarian may perform allergy testing to pinpoint the specific allergen causing the reaction. If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, it’s advisable to consult your vet for proper evaluation and treatment.
Managing pet allergies typically involves long-term strategies such as medication to alleviate itching and boost the immune response, regular bathing to remove allergens from the skin, and in the case of food allergies, implementing a diet free from the offending allergen.
In conclusion, pet allergies may present differently than human allergies, so it’s essential to stay vigilant for unexpected allergy symptoms in your furry companions. Seeking veterinary guidance can help effectively manage your pet’s allergies and ensure their comfort and well-being.