Pet Allergies
Relief for Your Pet’s Allergies
Like humans, pets can suffer from allergies that cause chronic irritation and discomfort. Allergens can be found in nature, in your home, and even in your pet’s food. At MyVet, we work diligently to identify the source of your pet’s allergies and provide effective treatment options.
From recognizing common causes and signs of allergies in pets to offering tailored treatments (including allergy testing, dietary changes, and medication), our experienced veterinary team is here to support you along every step.
Recognizing Common Allergy Signs
Does your pet frequently lick their paws, rub their face, or scratch endlessly? These may be the result of allergies. Other symptoms can include recurring ear infections, skin issues like “hot spots,” and gastrointestinal problems like vomiting or diarrhea.
Allergy triggers can include:
- Flea bite hypersensitivity
- Food allergies to ingredients like beef, dairy, chicken, or wheat
- Environmental allergens like pollen, mold, or dust mites
- Contact allergies to products like shampoos, sprays, or carpet powders
Customized Treatment Plans
The good news is that allergies can be treated. Your veterinarian will thoroughly examine your pet and get their history to determine the possible causes of their allergies. We may also perform tests, such as skin or blood tests, to identify the specific allergens that trigger your pet’s reaction.
Once we have a diagnosis, we will discuss the best treatment plan for your pet. Depending on the type and severity of your pet’s allergies, we may recommend one or more of the following options:
- Allergy shots
- Allergy medication
- Dietary changes
- Environmental control
Treating Your Pet’s Allergies in Chesapeake
If your pet is suffering from chronic itching, ear infections, or other allergy symptoms, MyVet can help. We will examine your furry friend, discuss their history, and make recommendations for allergy testing and customized treatment tailored to their needs. With the right plan, we can manage your pet’s allergies and keep them comfortable.
Allergy Care FAQs
What are the signs of allergies in pets?
Pets with allergies often show signs like excessive scratching, licking their paws, rubbing their face, recurring ear infections, hair loss, or irritated skin. Some pets may also experience digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea. If your pet has these symptoms, schedule an allergy evaluation at MyVet.
Can dogs and cats have seasonal allergies?
Yes, both dogs and cats can develop seasonal allergies caused by environmental allergens like pollen or grass.
How are allergies diagnosed in pets?
Diagnosing allergies in pets typically starts with a thorough physical exam and review of your pet’s medical history. Depending on your pet’s symptoms, our veterinarian may recommend allergy testing, bloodwork, skin testing, or dietary trials to determine the underlying cause and create a customized treatment plan.
How can I tell if my pet has a food allergy?
Pets with food allergies may experience chronic itching, skin irritation, recurring ear infections, or gastrointestinal issues like vomiting and diarrhea. Some pets may also lick their paws excessively or develop “hot spots.” Because food allergy symptoms can look similar to other conditions, we will recommend a special diet trial to identify the specific ingredient causing the reaction if a food allergy is suspected.
MyVet provides allergy testing and treatment for pets in Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Moyock, and Grassfield.