What Do Allergies Look Like in Pets?

pet allergiesJust like people, pets with environmental allergies will have symptoms such as scratching, sneezing, and erythema. While some pets may only experience these mild symptoms, others may progress to:

  • hotspots on the body
  • ear infections
  • yeast infections on the paws
  • alopecia
  • conjunctivitis

Additional behaviors or signs of allergies may include:

  • scooting
  • head shaking
  • chewing
  • scooting
  • excessive grooming (cats)

Whether your pet is allergic to pollen, fleas, or a type of grass, the symptoms are the same. The only way to pinpoint exactly what your pet is reacting to is to do an allergy panel. Allergies can be multifactorial. They can be the result of a weakened epidermal barrier, environmental irritant, or food. Medications can be used to treat and prevent allergy symptoms, however, sometimes dietary supplementation is also needed.

pet allergiesHow Food Helps

A healthy skin and coat aids the body’s immune response. Below are several components which contribute to the body’s ability to handle allergic irritations:

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids
    • best if derived from fish oil
      • rich in EPA and DHA
    • help with inflammation associated with itching
  • Omega-6 Fatty Acids
    • supplied by vegetable oils
    • maintain and protect skin barrier
  • Zinc (see image below)
    • antioxidant
    • maintain and protect skin barrier
  • Vitamins E and A
    • immune support
  • Protein
    • needed for protein turnover
      • protein turnover is the is the continuous synthesis and breakdown of protein in the body
        • vital for skin repair and hair growth

Be aware that, should your vet recommend a change in diet, you may not see improvement for up to 12 weeks.

 

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