Treating Pet Allergies
Is your pet sneezing, scratching, chewing at their feet and losing hair in a few places? They might be dealing with an allergy. Like us, our pets can be sensitive to certain things in their environment and develop an allergy over time. Pet allergies are an ongoing issue requiring routine care and management to reduce symptoms and prevent secondary infections.
While there is no cure for allergies, they can become far more manageable with the right treatment. Our veterinary team in Norwood offers a variety of comprehensive testing and treatment options to return pets to a healthier, itch-free state.
What Skin Conditions Can Pets Have?
While pet allergies are common, they are not the only cause of skin problems. Parasites and fungal infections can also result in an itchy, miserable pet.
At Tennessee Avenue Animal Hospital, we regularly treat the following conditions:
- Atopic dermatitis
- Bacterial skin infections
- Fungal skin infections
- Papilloma Warts
- Ear infections
- Mange – caused by sensitivity to mites
- Hot spots
- Lick granulomas
Diagnosing And Treating Your Pet's Condition
If your pet is scratching themselves frequently, showing signs of skin irritation and hair loss, and/or chewing at their feet, they should see us immediately. The longer we wait, the more severe your pet's condition will become. First, we need to be able to diagnose your pet accurately so we can find the most suitable treatment.
Our diagnostics options include:
- Skin scraping
- Biopsy
- Fungal culture
- Tape cytology
- Serum allergy testing
- Food elimination trial
Following a thorough diagnosis, we may recommend one or more treatments to control your pet's symptoms and manage their underlying condition:
- Antibiotics
- Injectable immune-modulating medications
- Oral anti-itch medications
- Medicated shampoos and mouses
- Steroids
- Topical medications
Persistence Is Key
Pet allergies and their associated symptoms can be stubborn and difficult to treat. Therefore, you will need to commit to routine treatment for your pet and take measures to reduce their exposure to existing (and potential) allergens. Our team is available five days a week to assist you and answer your questions, so don't hesitate to call us if your pet is having a problem. We'll help you work out a plan and see it through so your pet can return to the life they enjoy.