Dr. Megan Gibbings
West Coast Animal Hospital
What can you tell us about allergies and itchiness in our pets?
Pets, particularly dogs and cats, tend to experience an increased level of itchiness from allergies in spring. This is because of high pollen counts and the blooming of many plants after the rain. However, pet owners should remember that there are other causes for itchiness besides environmental allergies. Flea allergy dermatitis is common year-round in regions like San Diego, and pets can also experience food allergies, although less frequently than the other causes.
What treatment options are available for pets suffering from allergies?
Allergies in pets can be managed but not cured. Fortunately, there are several new therapies available for cats and dogs. For dogs, a monthly injection called Cytopoint is available, which is not a steroid but helps to manage itchiness. A daily pill called Apoquel is also used to control environmental allergies in more severe cases for dogs. Both dogs and cats can undergo allergy testing, and based on that information, a series of injections called immunotherapy can be prescribed, similar to the treatment humans receive. For pets with fleas, there are many safe and effective flea control options on the market. Pets with any form of allergy should consider taking year-round flea prevention. For food allergies, several prescription diets are available through veterinarians, and these diets are safe for long-term feeding.
What should pet owners do if their pet is excessively itchy?
With so many management options available, if your pet is suffering from itchiness or allergies, it is recommended to consult your veterinarian rather than trying home remedies and delaying proper treatment.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (619) 431-1423, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media https://www.facebook.com/westcoastpet/, https://www.instagram.com/westcoastpet/
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (619) 431-1423, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media https://www.facebook.com/westcoastpet/, https://www.instagram.com/westcoastpet/