Saturday, March 24, 2012

Allergies – Pets Get Them Too




In most cases, it’s people who are particular about allergies, especially in relation to the presence of certain pets.

But allergies are also a hassle for pets themselves.

In fact, pets suffering from allergies are somewhat trickier to treat, at times even more difficult compared to treating allergies in humans.

What pets eat tends to be given a lot of attention, particularly over the effects a particular food type has when pets consume them. But food isn’t the only allergen which can cause pet allergy problems.

Here are some of the most common allergy-inducers often affecting pets, other than food. Do well in taking note of these, and you can readily confirm if your pet is suffering allergic reactions from them.

Airborne Allergens – Mold, Dust Mites, and Grass, Tree and/or Weed Pollen

Cases of pets constantly sneezing are known, and airborne allergens can be linked as causes for such pet conditions. Scratching, however, is a more commonly encountered pet reaction to allergies, along with the prevalence of sores, runny noses, vomiting and diarrhea.

In most cases, identifying the airborne allergen’s origins helps in controlling your pet’s allergic reactions. Factors such as change in environment and seasons should be considered in determining the cause for a pet’s allergy attack.

Fleas

Fleas are well-established parasitic creatures, often associated with dogs and cats. Though scratching is a natural indicator telling pet owners about the presence of fleas, some cats and dogs are known to have allergic reactions from them.

In fact, fleas are the most common cause of pet allergy onsets.

The discoloration of fur in between toes, watery eyes, and rashes stand in line with scratching as flea-induced allergic reactions. Ear infections are also known flea-induced allergy markers, and the best way to remedy the situation would be to get rid of fleas and to ensure that they don’t come back.

Contact-Related Allergies – Usually from Carpets or Detergent-washed Fabrics

Certain chemicals can cause skin irritations on pets, and identifying and discontinuing the use of these helps in keeping pet allergies from striking.

Fabric types are also known to be unsuitable for pets, and like cleaning agents, identifying them spares pets from constant scratching and rashes.

If you feel that your pet is suffering from allergies, take the time to investigate and see just what its cause is. It’ll surely make life easier for your pet, and it’ll surely spare you from the cost of expensive medications and examinations.