Helping Your Pet Overcome Itching and Irritation
Just like people, pets can suffer from allergies and skin conditions that cause discomfort, excessive itching, and even infections. If your pet is constantly scratching, licking, or developing red, irritated skin, it may be time to seek professional care.
At All Pets Veterinary Hospital, we provide expert dermatology and allergy treatments to help dogs and cats feel comfortable again. Reach out to our team for a consultation to help your furry friend find relief from itching and scratching.
Or give us a call at (603) 882-0494!
Signs Your Pet May Have Allergies
Allergies in pets don’t always look the same as they do in people. While sneezing and watery eyes can occur, skin irritation and chronic infections are more common. Keep an eye out for these signs that may indicate your pet has allergies:
- Excessive scratching, biting, or chewing at the skin
- Licking the feet, legs, or belly incessantly
- Red, inflamed, or flaky skin
- Hair loss or bald patches
- Chronic ear infections
- Frequent skin infections or hot spots
- Scooting or recurring anal gland issues
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, your pet may have an allergy or underlying skin condition that needs attention.
What Causes Allergies in Pets?
Understanding the source of your pet’s allergies is key to effective treatment. Allergies in dogs and cats can stem from a variety of sources, including:
Environmental Allergies
Pollen, dust mites, mold, and other airborne allergens can trigger reactions.
Food Allergies
Certain ingredients, like beef, dairy, chicken, or soy—rarely grains—can cause itching, digestive upset, or skin problems.
Flea Allergies
Some pets have extreme reactions to flea bites, leading to intense itching and skin infections.
Contact Allergies
Shampoos, detergents, or other substances can cause localized irritation.
Dermatological Testing & Treatment
To accurately diagnose and treat your pet’s skin issues, we start with a thorough dermatological exam. Our diagnostic tools include:
- Skin Scraping & Cytology: Identifies parasites, bacteria, or fungal infections
- Culture & Sensitivity Testing: Determines bacterial or fungal strains to target treatment effectively
- Allergy Testing: Helps pinpoint environmental or food allergens
- Skin Biopsy: Used in cases of chronic or severe skin conditions to rule out more complex diseases
Once we identify the cause of your pet’s allergy or skin issue, we’ll create a customized treatment plan that may include:
- Topical Treatments: Helps soothe and treat irritated skin
- Oral or Injectable Allergy Medications: Reduces itching and inflammation
- Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots): Long-term treatment for environmental allergies
- Dietary Changes or Prescription Diets: Helps manage food allergies
- Flea Prevention & Control: Essential for pets with flea allergies
Every pet is different, and our goal is to find the best approach to keep your furry friend happy and comfortable.
Don’t let allergies keep your pet from living their best life. If your dog or cat is suffering from persistent itching, skin problems, or recurring infections, we’re here to help! Contact us to schedule an allergy and dermatology consultation.
Or give us a call at (603) 882-0494!