Managing Cat & Dog Allergies with Dermatology in Virginia-Highland, GA
Cat and dog allergies are common in our pets, and they often cause skin conditions like itchy, irritated skin. While allergies are not curable, they can be effectively managed with the proper treatment options. At The Village Vets in Virginia-Highland, GA, we’ll work with you to find the right treatment or combination of treatments to get your pet the relief they deserve.
Recognizing Pet Allergies
Cat and dog allergy symptoms can mirror those of other, more serious underlying conditions. If you recognize any of the following, it’s important to make an appointment to see your veterinarian so we can run some diagnostic tests to rule out more serious conditions.
Common allergy symptoms include:
- Dry, flaky skin
- Red, irritated skin
- Hair loss
- Excessive licking
- Chewing paws
- Foul odor coming from their skin
Identifying the Source of Your Pet's Allergy
Some common allergens for pets include:
- Pollens
- Mold spores
- Dust and dust mites
- Grasses
- Certain materials
(such as rubber or plastic) - Food ingredients
(such as pork, beef, egg, etc.)
An advanced allergy test that we send to an outside lab can help us identify the cause of any environmental allergen; however, it cannot diagnose food sensitivities. To discover an exact food sensitivity, your pet must be put on an elimination diet for several weeks before adding in possible allergens, one by one, to determine which is the culprit. Our dermatology services include helping you through this process.