5 Signs Your Pet Is Having an Allergic Reaction

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Pets like humans suffer from allergies. But the symptoms in pets may not be as obvious as those in humans. Pets do not speak to express how they feel therefore it up to the owner to observe subtle symptoms that may occur on their pet’s skin or face. Pets can have allergic reactions to any environmental stimuli or any material that they may be exposed to anywhere at home, at the store, where you visit with them or even when driving with them in the car. Some of the common allergens pets may be allergic to include: mold spores, dust, food ingredient, perfumes, cleaning agents, prescription drugs, and even some plants. So it is important to know the symptoms of allergic reactions in pets so as to seek remedies early before they become serious.

Itchiness

Itchiness is the most common symptom of an allergic reaction in a pet. The owner of the pet must be on the lookout for this symptom because if left unchecked it can lead to hot spots, scabbing, and even recurring skin infections. If you notice pets scratching themselves or are always restless, it is time to visit the vet immediately. Look for a good pair of pet combs and brushes to groom your pet regularly and prevent this situation.

Hair Loss

The second sign your pet is having an allergic reaction is hair loss. If you notice the fur on your pet thinning out or bald spots starting to appear then your pet may be having an allergic reaction. The hair loss and baldness may be due to a number of factors including the cleaning agent you may be using during grooming, food ingredient, and exposure to fleas or insects that may have bit it. You may consider visiting the vet immediately to determine the agent causing an allergic reaction.

Coughing, Sneezing, or Asthma

The third sign your pet is having an allergic reaction is coughing, sneezing, or asthma.  Pets exhibit symptom of wheezing as a result of exposure to pollens, dust, food ingredients, insect stings or medications. The wheezing results from inflammation of the airways that constricts them making it difficult to breathe. If not treated, it can lead to an anaphylactic reaction that can be fatal. An anaphylactic reaction can exhibit as difficult or rapid breathing and swelling on the face. It the last stage and if an anaphylactic reaction occurs rush it to the nearest vet for treatment.   

Tummy Aches

The fourth common sign of an allergic reaction that can occur in your pet is tummy aches and vomiting after ingesting food. As you already know, pets are allergic to some food ingredients. The immune system of pets can react with a food ingredient incorrectly identifying it as a threat thereby starting preventive measures. The tummy aches and vomiting can combine with other symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, rashes or falling off of hair.

Swelling of the Face

The fifth and most common sign of an allergic reaction in your pet is swelling of the face, feet or joints. Pets’ feet do not swell up too often, therefore, it may be a cause of concern that requires urgent attention. Not all the feet of the pet may swell as it can occur in one foot and even in a toe making it difficult for one notice any change. You may notice a reaction from the pet on touch or discharge from the swollen foot. The toenails can also overgrow into the toepad resulting in difficulty walking and other discomforts.

If you notice any of the above symptoms or a change of behavior or outlook of your pet, it is time to visit a vet and initiate remedy measures available. If you can administer first aid measures like removing foreign objects that may be dislodged in the fur or paws then do so but visit a veterinarian immediately. Take care of your pet because they are like family to us.