Managing Allergies in Dogs and Cats in Greenville, SC
Understanding the challenges that pets face with allergies is key to ensuring their comfort and health. If your pet is scratching more than usual or just generally seems uncomfortable, allergies could be the cause! At Partners Animal Hospital Greenville, our dedicated team helps dogs, cats, and their loving humans manage these conditions effectively by identifying and treating the root causes.
Itching doesn’t have to be the norm for your pet. Help them find relief today!
How Do I Know If My Pet Has Allergies?
Allergies can make life difficult and unpleasant for dogs and cats. Here’s what to watch for if you suspect your pet might be suffering from an allergy:
- Persistent scratching, biting, or licking
- Red, irritated skin (check for lesions and scabs, too)
- Hair loss from excessive grooming and/or scratching
- Runny eyes and nose
- Rubbing ears and face in an attempt to relieve itching
- Red or swollen eyes
- Unpleasant odor from the skin or ears
Common Allergens Affecting Pets
Like humans, pets can be allergic to a wide range of substances. Some of the most common allergens include:
- Pet dander
- Outdoor allergens like pollen, grass, and mold
- Household dust and dust mites
- Flea bites (which causes flea allergy dermatitis)
- Synthetic materials
- Household chemicals from cleaning products, dyes, and more
- Certain pet food ingredients such as chicken, beef, eggs, soy, and wheat
Tailored Pet Allergy Care at Partners Animal Hospital Greenville
Our approach to managing allergies in dogs and cats starts with a comprehensive physical exam to understand the specific issues your pet might be facing. We might recommend blood tests to gain deeper insights. While we don’t conduct in-house allergy testing, we can arrange for such tests with a specialist if needed.
Treatment typically focuses on reducing discomfort and may involve:
- Antibiotics, for any secondary infections
- Topical and oral medications to reduce inflammation and itchiness
- Hypoallergenic diets to eliminate common dietary allergens.
Each pet's allergy care plan is tailored to their specific needs. We recognize that managing allergies is an ongoing process and are committed to partnering with you to ensure your pet lives a comfortable, happy life. If you’re concerned about allergies affecting your pet, don’t wait. Book an appointment with us today to start on the path to relief and recovery.