Veterinary Allergy Care in Hawthorne, CA

Allergies in pets are more common than many pet owners realize, and understanding how to protect your pet helps maintain their well-being. At Rosecrans Veterinary Clinic, our team is here to diagnose and treat your pet allergies to help your furry friends live comfortably. Our team, led by Dr. McCoy, is committed to providing compassionate and effective care tailored to each pet’s unique needs.

Common Pet Allergies and Symptoms

• Environmental Allergies (Pollen, Dust Mites): Environmental allergies are common in pets and are triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and grass. These allergens can cause your pet to experience seasonal or year-round symptoms, depending on the source of the allergy.
• Food Allergies: Common food allergens include beef, chicken, dairy, wheat, and soy. Food allergies can develop at any age and may cause chronic symptoms if not addressed.
• Flea Allergies: Even a single flea bite can trigger severe itching and discomfort in sensitive pets. Flea allergy dermatitis is a leading cause of skin problems in pets and requires vigilant flea control measures.
• Contact Allergies (Certain Materials or Chemicals): Contact allergies occur when your pet’s skin comes into direct contact with an allergen, such as certain cleaning products, fabrics, or plants.

Veterinary Treatments for Pet Allergies

• Medications (Antihistamines, Steroids): Medications like antihistamines and steroids are commonly prescribed to manage and alleviate the symptoms of pet allergies, providing relief from itching and inflammation.
• Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy): Allergy shots, or immunotherapy, involve administering small doses of the allergen to gradually build up your pet’s tolerance and reduce allergic reactions over time.
• Topical Treatments (Shampoos, Creams): Topical treatments, including medicated shampoos and creams, are used to soothe and treat skin irritations caused by allergies, offering localized relief.
• Dietary Changes: Dietary changes can help manage food allergies in pets. Switching to hypoallergenic or novel protein diets can help eliminate the offending allergens from your pet’s diet. Careful monitoring and gradual reintroduction of foods can help identify specific dietary triggers.
• Environmental Management: Environmental management involves reducing your pet’s exposure to allergens by maintaining a clean living environment, using air purifiers, and selecting hypoallergenic bedding and products.

How to Protect Your Pet from Allergies At Home

Regular Cleaning to Reduce Allergens

Vacuuming carpets and furniture, washing pet bedding frequently, and using air purifiers can significantly reduce the presence of allergens in your home. Keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons can also help limit allergen exposure.

Using Hypoallergenic Bedding and Products

Hypoallergenic bedding is designed to minimize the accumulation of dust mites and other allergens. Shampoos and conditioners formulated for sensitive skin, can help reduce allergic reactions and soothe your pet’s skin.

Avoiding Common Food Allergens

Identify and eliminate potential allergens from your pet’s diet, such as beef, chicken, dairy, wheat, and soy. Consulting with your veterinarian to choose a hypoallergenic or novel protein diet can help prevent gastrointestinal issues and improve your pet’s overall health.

Recognizing Early Signs of Allergies

Common signs include excessive scratching, licking, red or inflamed skin, ear infections, and gastrointestinal problems. Early detection and intervention can lead to more effective treatment and better management of your pet’s allergies.

Schedule a Veterinary Consultation in Hawthorne, CA

Taking proactive steps to manage your pet’s allergies is important to keep them healthy and happy. If you have questions about your pet’s health or want to meet with a veterinarian, contact us to schedule an appointment at Rosecrans Veterinary Clinic in Hawthorne, CA. Our team is ready to assist with personalized treatment plans based on your pet’s specific needs.