As of: February 10, 2024, 8:00 p.m
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Pets can develop allergies just like people.
We'll show you what an allergic reaction is, how to recognize the symptoms and how to best treat them.
Does your pet scratch and bite itself noticeably often, vomit or show other unusual behavior?
Then it could be due to an undetected allergy.
Unfortunately, since animals can't speak, you'll have to play a little detective to figure out the problem.
That's why it makes sense to take a basic look at the topic of allergies.
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What is an allergic reaction?
Just like in people, allergies in animals are an overreaction of the immune system: it suddenly recognizes harmless things like pollen or certain foods as dangerous foreign bodies from which it has to protect the body.
That's why it releases so-called histamines to fight the invaders on the skin or in the respiratory tract.
This defensive reaction then leads to typical symptoms such as sneezing or itchy skin.
Not every allergy is as easy to recognize as dermatitis.
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How to recognize an allergy in your pet
Unfortunately, the signs of an allergy can also have many other causes.
For example: parasites, fungal infections or other diseases.
If in doubt, contact your veterinarian.
The most common signs of an allergic reaction are:
Red skin (especially in less hairy areas)
Papules or wheals
Frequent scratching, licking, biting, or rolling
Hair loss, scabby or inflamed skin
Increased whining or screaming
Difficulty sleeping or unusual behavior
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These are the most common allergies in dogs and cats
There are many forms of allergies in pets.
The following list only lists the most common types:
Contact allergy:
This allergy is triggered by contact with allergenic substances.
Typical examples are detergents and cleaning agents, fragrances or certain additives in toys or collars.
So-called spot-on preparations against fleas, ticks or pesticides can also trigger allergic reactions.
Some animals are even allergic to their owners.
Food allergy:
As with us humans, this includes not only real allergic reactions to food, but also intolerance to fructose, gluten or lactose.
Environmental allergy:
Animals can also react allergically to pollen or house dust and even develop real hay fever.
Due to the seasonal limited time frame, these allergies can be diagnosed quite easily.
Allergic reaction to parasite infestation:
If your animal reacts unusually strongly to insect stings and bites, this is referred to as allergic dermatitis.
Otherwise harmless insects can then cause large areas of swelling, redness or rashes.
Canine adoptive dermatitis:
This hereditary allergy in dogs is comparable to neurodermatitis in humans.
It is usually manifested by increased dandruff formation and skin that is too dry or oily and often smells unpleasant.
Allergies in pets: This is how you can react
If you suspect an allergic reaction in your dog or cat, be sure to contact your veterinarian for a firm diagnosis.
If the allergy is confirmed, try to avoid any contact between your pet and the allergen.
Unfortunately, this is not possible for many environmental allergies.
Then the last option is so-called immunotherapy.
Your pet's immune system receives a tailor-made treatment to weaken the allergic reaction and increase the quality of life.
However, such therapies are not available for all animals and all allergies.
It's best to talk to your vet about the options available.
This article only contains general information on the respective topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the vet. Unfortunately, our editorial team cannot answer individual questions about illnesses in your animal.