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Dogs and cats can both suffer from a range of allergies. One of the most common conditions affecting dogs is
allergy while approximately 15% of cats have allergies.
In the allergic state, the pet's immune system "overreacts" to
foreign substances (allergens or antigens) to which
it is exposed. These overreactions are manifested in
three ways. The most common is itching of the skin,
either localized (one area) or generalized (all over
the animal). Another manifestation involves the respiratory
system and may result in coughing, sneezing, and/or
wheezing. Sometimes, there may be an associated nasal
or ocular (eye) discharge. The third manifestation
involves the digestive system and can result in vomiting
or diarrhea.
TYPES OF ALLERGIES
There are five known types of allergies
in the pets: contact, flea, food, bacterial, contact, and inhalant.
Each of these has some common expressions in dogs and cats,
and each has some unique features.
The most common medical complaint we see in dogs is skin or ear related. Unlike humans who frequently react to allergens with nasal symptoms, dogs most frequently react with skin problems. These problems may range from hair coat problems, to itching, chewing, hot spots and self mutilation. Allergies may also play a part in your dog's chronic ear infections. Thyroid disease may further complicate the problems.
FLEA ALLERGIES
Flea allergys are the most common allergies we see in pets. Dogs and cats are not allergic to the flea itself but rather to its saliva. The best treatment for flea allergies is control of the flea population. Read the Flea and Tick Control Page to learn more.
FOOD ALLERGIES
Another common canine allergy is allergy to food. 5-10% of the feline population suffer from food allergies.
A food allergy is a condition in which
the body's immune system reacts adversely to a food
or an ingredient in a food. Any food or food
ingredient can cause an allergy. However, protein,
usually from the meat source of the food, is the most
likely offender. Read the DOG Food Allergies Page to learn more about this allergy. Food allergies manifest as skin inflammation and severe itching and sometimes cause vomiting and diarrhea. Your cat or dog may also have excessively oily skin, ear inflammation, or hair loss (which can also be a sign of hormone imbalance).
Inhalant Allergies
Our pets can be allergic to the same substances that cause allergic reactions in humans including pollens, dust mites and molds. Be sure to note whether your pet's reaction occurs seasonally or year round. Year round reactions may indicate mold or dust as the allergen. Seasonal reactions may indicate pollens as the culprit.
In dogs symptoms of inhalant allergies include: biting, chewing and licking of feet, and scratching. Itching may be most severe on feet, flanks, groin and armpits. Dogs may also scratch by rubbing their faces on the carpet. Inhalant allergies can cause ear flaps to become red and hot. The dog may suffer chronic ear infections. Skin reacts by becoming thickened, greasy and having a strong odor. Hot spots and infections may develop due to irritation from constant chewing or scratching. Allergies can also cause Lick Granulomas, a condition where the dog creates a sore on his skin from constant licking.
Cats, like dogs, and humans can be allergic to numerous inhalants. Common culprits include: kitty litter, dust, cigarette smoke, perfume, household sprays, pollen, and air fresheners. Inhalant allergies can result in skin loss, and pustules, or ulcerated areas on the skin, and asthmatic symptoms.
CONTACT ALLERGIES
Contact allergies, as the name implies, are allergies your pet develops from coming in direct contact with the allergen. Common contact allergies in dogs and cats can be caused by: plants, especially oily-leafed plants like the Ficus family, carpet freshener, wool, carpet fibers, house dust, newsprint, cleansers and topical medications.
Contact dermatitis can cause pigmentary changes and/or skin eruptions. These are most noticeable on the chin, ears, inner thighs, abdomen, underside of the tail, armpits and around the anus.
DIAGNOSIS
Sulphur Springs Vet Clinic can help your allergic pet. We will take a medical history, do a thorough examination with blood work, if indicated, then work with you to find the best way to manage your pet's symptoms. As with human allergies, your pet's allergies cannot be "cured". But they can be managed through systematic treatment. We can diagnose and treat your pet's allergies. The success or failure of treatment will rest mainly on you, the pet owner.
TREATMENT
Treatment will, of course, vary depending on the allergens involved, manifestation of symptoms, seriousness of effects of the allergy, owner commitment, financial concerns, etc. Some treatments may include:
- Symptomatic Topical Therapy - Bath treatments, sprays, and other substances that treat symptoms of the allergy
- Immunotherapy - Involves testing for inhalant allergies and regular allergy injections. Effectiveness of treatment varies.
- Corticosteroids
- Compounds that reduce itching by reducing inflammation. Steroids negatively effect all body organs so are used only for short periods. Side effects can include increased thirst and appetite, increased frequency of urination, and behavioral changes.
- Antihistamines -
Can be used with relative safety. Side effects include sedation. Check with us on correct dosing. Antihistamines commonly used for dogs include: Tavist, Benadryl, Chlortrimeton, Atarax. Temaril, Zyrtec, Allegra, Seldane. Antihistamines commonly used for cats include: Tavist, Benadryl, Chlortrimeton, Atarax, Elavil, Seldane
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Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids -
These fatty acids are natural anti-inflammatory agents. They are reported to be helpful in 20% of allergic dogs. Fatty acids are not harmful and have virtually no side effects. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oils.) Omega-6 fatty acids are derived from plants containing gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). They can reduce inflammation that leads to skin sores but are not as effective in reducing itching. Fatty acids are also used in cats to combat dry skin.
- Environmental Control -
Once aggravating factors are known avoidance becomes the best method of controlling allergies. Dehumidifiers help control indoor mold. Air cleaners with HEPA filters help control dust and pollen. Keeping windows closed helps prevent airborne allergens from entering the home.
- Prevention - Allergies are inherited. Breeders should refrain from breeding dogs suffering from allergies.
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