University Parkway Animal Hospital Treats Allergies in Pets
Animals have allergies just like people do. Your pet may experience eye problems, sneezing, skin eruptions, or gastrointestinal symptoms that indicate a reaction to substances in their environment or foods they eat. Your vet can find the source of your pet's allergies and provide effective treatment to reduce the symptoms those allergies cause. At University Parkway Animal Hospital in Jackson, TN, we have experience treating animals with allergy problems.
Causes of Allergy Reactions
Allergic reactions start when the animal’s immune system overreacts to an internal or external substance. Pets can be allergic to a wide variety of substances, such as pollen from grass and weeds, mold, mildew, chemical substances, or different foods. Common foods that may produce allergic reactions include wheat, eggs, beef, dairy, and chicken. Pets can also have allergic reactions to insect bites, such as from fleas.
Symptoms of Allergies in Pets
Pet owners may begin to suspect environmental allergies when pets sneeze constantly, have watery eyes, chronic ear infections, or troublesome skin rashes. Swelling of the face and repeated licking of areas of the body can also indicate an allergy. Food allergies may cause vomiting, diarrhea, poor feeding, itchiness, and skin rashes.
Diagnosing Allergies in Pets
Our veterinarian can provide allergy testing to determine the cause of the problem. However, these tests are not always able to pinpoint specific allergens. Some investigation and trial-and-error may be necessary. For food allergies and sensitivities, your vet may suggest an “elimination diet," which starts with basic components and adds additional items one by one to see what produces a reaction.
Allergy Treatments That Can Help
Veterinarians often administer antihistamine medications to reduce inflammation and swelling. Antibiotics may also be given to eliminate secondary infections that occur due to inflamed tissue. Your vet may suggest avoiding certain types of household cleaners or grooming products. Owners may need to keep pets indoors during allergy season. Generally, a combination of methods can help pets avoid exposure to allergens, so they can remain comfortable and symptom-free.
Make University Parkway Animal Hospital Your Veterinarian in Jackson, TN
Dr. Lifsey and our team at University Parkway Animal Hospital are dedicated to providing high quality veterinary care to all of our patients in Jackson, TN, and the surrounding areas. We offer many services for pet care, including vaccinations, parasite prevention, surgery, orthopedic care, and boarding. We also provide emergency and after-hours care. Call University Parkway Animal Hospital today at (731) 661-0711 for an appointment to learn about treatments that can help your pet’s allergies.