How to Help Your Pet With Allergies

Humans aren’t the only ones who suffer from allergies. Dogs and cats can also react to allergens in their environment or food.

All breeds of either species can be affected. Let’s take a closer look at signs of allergic reactions in pets. We’ll also share some tips on how to help your furry friend with allergies feel better.

What Is An Allergy?

An allergy occurs when your pet’s immune system reacts to an otherwise harmless substance like dust mites, flea saliva, pollen, mold or foods. The immune system is designed to protect your dog or cat from sickness and infection, but an allergic response can actually harm the body.

Seasonal allergies and food allergies are two of the most common types of allergies in cats and dogs, but other reactions can occur. Most allergies develop after a pet is at least six months old.

Common Signs of Allergies in Dogs

• Itchy skin, either localized in one area or all over the body
• Coughing
• Sneezing or wheezing
• Hives
• Runny nose
• Discharge from eyes
• Hair loss
• Digestive symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea

What To Give Dogs for Allergies?

Treatment for your dog’s allergies depends on what is causing the reaction. Like humans, animals can undergo allergy testing such as a skin test or blood test to identify the offending allergens.

Your veterinarian may recommend antihistamines or corticosteroids to quickly block symptoms. These drugs are usually safe for dogs, but like any medication they can come with unwanted side effects. Your vet may also suggest allergy shots to reduce or eliminate symptoms.

Natural allergy treatments for pets are a good alternative for pet owners who want to minimize pharmaceuticals. See some favorite options here.

If your vet suspects your dog has a food allergy or food hypersensitivity, they will advise you to feed a strict elimination diet for 8-12 weeks to identify the food triggers. The most common reactions are to proteins in food: dairy, wheat gluten, beef, chicken, eggs and soy.

Common Signs of Allergies in Cats

• Itchy skin
• Coughing
• Sneezing or wheezing
• Runny nose
• Discharge from eyes
• Digestive symptoms like vomiting, flatulence or diarrhea

What To Give Cats for Allergies?

Treatment depends on what your cat is allergic to. The most common trigger in cats is a flea allergy, which is a reaction to the saliva in a flea bite. Other common types of allergies in cats are dust, mold, pollen, food and contact.

Your vet may recommend corticosteroids to block a reaction. These drugs are typically safe for cats, but like any medication they can come with undesirable side effects. For a flea allergy, a monthly flea preventative is a wise idea.

Natural allergy treatments for cats are an option for pet owners who want to minimize pharmaceuticals.

If your vet thinks your cat has a food allergy or food intolerance, they will recommend an elimination diet to identify the offending food. Avoiding that food is the only way to prevent symptoms.

Natural Supplements for Pet Allergies

Dogs or cats with allergies need extra help to support their immune systems and heal their bodies from the inside out. A balanced diet and omega-3 fatty acid supplementation can help.

Three pet owner favorites to support immune health are Allergy Itch Ease™, Sinu-Rite™ and Skin and Coat Tonic™.

Allergy Itch Ease™ is a homeopathic medicine for dog and cat skin allergies, available as either an oral spray or granules. It relieves and soothes skin itch and allergies and addresses acute skin problems such as eczema and redness. Learn more.

Sinu-Rite™ is a homeopathic medicine for symptoms of allergy-related congestion and acute sinusitis in dogs and cats. Learn more.

Skin and Coat Tonic™ is an herbal supplement for cat and dog skin health and shiny, glossy coats. It supports liver, kidney and thyroid function and  immune system health. Learn more.

While allergies in dogs and cats aren’t fun to deal with, you have many options to help your pet feel better fast.

Related Links

Natural Remedies for Your Pet’s Itchy Skin

Sources:

1. Barnette, C. and Ward, E. “Allergies in Dogs.” VCA Animal Hospitals. Accessed March 23, 2022. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/allergy-general-in-dogs
2. Hunter, T. and Ward, E. “Allergies in Cats.” VCA Animal Hospitals. Accessed March 23, 2022. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/allergies-in-cats
3. Burke, A. “Dog Allergies: Symptoms and Treatment.” American Kennel Club AKC. Accessed March 23, 2022. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-allergies-symptoms-treatment/

“Types of Allergies in Pets.” Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota. Accessed March 23, 2022. https://aercmn.com/types-of-allergies-in-pets/