Is your cat scratching excessively, biting its skin, or frequently rubbing its face? These behaviors might indicate allergies. Just like humans, pets, especially cats and dogs, can develop allergies to substances in their environment or diet. However, their allergic reactions differ from ours, manifesting primarily as skin issues (itchiness, redness, irritation).
Itching can be so intense that pets may injure themselves by scratching, potentially leading to infected wounds. Prompt veterinary consultation is essential to identify and manage these allergies effectively.
What is an Allergy in Pets?
An allergy is an abnormal immune system reaction to a substance called an allergen. Common allergens in pets include:
- Pollens
- Molds
- Dust and dust mites
- Fleas
- Food ingredients
Allergens may contact the pet through the skin, ingestion, or inhalation. Symptoms vary depending on the allergen:
- Seasonal: Pollen, especially in spring and summer.
- Year-round: Food, dust mites, or dust.
Food allergies may also cause digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea.
How to Treat Allergies in Cats and Dogs?
Following veterinary diagnosis, several solutions can be considered:
Medication Treatments:
- Corticosteroids
- Immunosuppressants
- Antihistamines
These treatments quickly alleviate symptoms but don’t address the underlying cause. Prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to serious side effects (kidney issues, diabetes, etc.).
Identifying and Eliminating Allergens:
When possible, identifying the allergen allows its removal from your pet’s environment or diet. Two primary methods exist:
- Skin tests: Subcutaneous injection of allergens.
- Blood tests (environmental allergens only): Measuring specific antibodies.
Desensitization:
If an allergen is identified but can’t be eliminated, desensitization may be considered. This involves administering gradually increasing doses of the allergen to reduce the allergic reaction.
Focus on Food Allergies
Unlike environmental allergies, pets cannot be desensitized to food allergens. The only solution is a strict diet excluding problematic ingredients. Your veterinarian can recommend options, such as hypoallergenic or homemade diets.
