The Life Span Cycle Of Vet Care For Dogs

Allergic Reactions and Your Pet—How to Identify the Signs

25 October 2018 by Leonard Wallace

Just like you and your loved ones, your furry friend can also suffer an allergic reaction. Although most dog owners are aware that chocolate is a no-no for their pet, there is still a host of other allergens that your pet can be exposed to. And whether you own a dog or a cat, they are equally vulnerable to developing an allergic reaction to medications, foods and their environment at large. Since it is unlikely that you will know everything that your pet is allergic to, it is vital to be aware of the indicators of an allergic reaction. The following is a list of symptoms that should be a red flag of an allergic reaction so that you can rush your pet to the animal hospital.

Incessant scratching

Scratching is normal for any pet that has claws. But the moment this scratching becomes excessive, you should be wary of a potential allergic reaction. Some of the most common allergies will usually be characterised by skin irritation. And in typical cases, they come about due to flea bites that cause your pet to develop dermatitis. Since you cannot affirm this just by the scratching, it is advisable to take your pet to the animal hospital so that the allergen can be diagnosed.

Sudden gastrointestinal problems

Gastrointestinal problems can manifest in a host of ways, all of which will cause abnormal behavioural patterns in your pet. Some of the gastrointestinal issues that can crop up include bloating, diarrhoea and vomiting. If the incident is isolated, it could mean that your pet may have erroneously consumed a substance that subsequently caused a stomach irritation. However, if any gastrointestinal problems go on for more than a day, it is imperative to head to an animal hospital and have a workup done on your pet.

Fur loss or thinning

In some situations, the increase in scratching can cause your pet to lose fur in specific areas. These parts are commonly referred to as 'hot spots' since they are the part of their skin that is most irritating, leading to more attention being paid to these areas. The more fur that is lost because of the incessant licking and scratching, the higher the likelihood of a bald spot forming. Take note that these areas can also suffer from inflammation. And when this happens, the irritated area becomes susceptible to infection because it is raw when exposed to pathogens. If you do notice that your pet's fur is thinning in certain areas, it is advisable to visit your vet immediately.

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