ALLERGIES & ASTHMA
Dealing with allergies has become a part of life for many of us humans; and without taking some kind of action against them, Spring brings a lot of sneezes, runny noses, and diminished energy. What many people may not know, is that our pets could be suffering all the same discomforts. Without a proactive approach, many dogs and cats are itching and licking from exposure to irritants such as pollen, trees and grass.
SO WHAT CAN YOU LOOK FOR IN YOUR PET TO KNOW WHETHER OR NOT THEY ARE STRUGGLING WITH ALLERGIES?
- Rashes
- Sneezing and watery eyes (or nose)
- Ear infections
- Excessive itching, sneezing, and grooming
- Paw chewing or licking
- Skin Inflammation
WHAT PREVENTATIVE MEASURES CAN BE TAKEN TO FIGHT AGAINST ALLERGIES?
- Bring your pet into the clinic: Before beginning any preventative, it’s always best to bring your pet in and make sure their symptoms are met with the correct diagnostics and treatment.
- Bathe your pet: Using the correct pet shampoo, you can bathe your every seventh day if they are suffering. This will help remove allergens, bacteria, oil and other irritating substances from their coat and skin.
- Topical treatments: Much like bathing, you can use a localized approach to cleaning the irritated areas up to two times a day. You can also use a leave-on conditioner or veterinary-prescribed topical treatment.
- Eye rinses and ear cleaning: By applying some eye drops and pet-appropriate ear cleaning solution, you can help irrigate and wash out harmful allergens, broken hairs, bacteria, and any other bacteria in your pets eyes and ears.
Asthma can also plague our dogs and cats. As a type of an allergic reaction, Asthma tends to cause issues for our pets this time of year.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CAT OR DOG MAY HAVE ASTHMA?
- Difficulty breathing
- Coughing or sneezing
- Lack of, or diminished appetite
- Weakness, lower than normal energy, fatigue
- Consult with your veterinarian
HOW CAN I BE PROACTIVE TO PROTECT MY PET AGAINST SUFFERING FROM THE SYMPTOMS OF ASTHMA?
- Do not smoke around your pet.
- Keep your carpets clean.
- Bathe your pet regularly.
- Clean your cat’s litter box often, and use dust-free cat litter.
- Replace your home’s air-filter regularly.
- Clean your hardwood or tile floors with white vinegar.
As you can see, asthma and allergies tend to have some overlap in symptoms. This is why we always recommend bringing your pet into the clinic before starting any prevention other than bathing…and we are more than happy to do that part as well. The most important thing is to keep your pets happy and healthy this Spring and Summer!
