• posted: Apr. 13, 2021

Our team at Oxford Animal Hospital cares for our furry clients and their families in The Villages, FL. With Florida’s heat and long growing season, pet allergies can be a more frequent problem than in other areas. We would like to share some information about how to recognize pet allergies and what can be done to treat them.

Food or Medication Allergies

When your pet ingests medicine or food that contains an allergen, its immune system goes into defense mode against what it regards as dangerous and may produce both inner and outer reactions. The system may attempt to purge with vomiting and diarrhea and many times itchy skin appears as well. Swelling of the skin around the ears and paws might be seen, which can lead to red and infected skin.

You can probably narrow down the allergen if you have just switched to different pet food or just started a new medication. Your pet may also suddenly show signs like these which could suggest an ingested allergen with no obvious cause. Bring your pet to our veterinarian for an exam. A temporary diet of bland, filler-free food to cleanse the system will likely be recommended.

Skin Allergies

Reactions of the skin come after tactile contact with an allergen, but other kinds of pet allergies can also prompt reactions on the skin. These reactions may result from environmental allergies to gastrointestinal allergic reactions to reactions to specific insect bites. Itching starts quickly afterward and swelling can accompany it. Certain tender points like the abdomen, tail, ears, paws, and throat may be affected. Besides trying to pinpoint the cause, our veterinarian can prescribe medication for the symptoms so the itching will not keep your pet in a constant state of irritation and pain.

Environmental Allergies

Pet allergies to plants, pollen, or mold can happen just as they do in humans. Outwardly, these look like skin allergies, sometimes accompanied by a runny nose, sneezing, and red eyes. Unfortunately, it is just as difficult to avoid the widespread allergen for your pets, especially if they make a habit of playing outside. Our veterinarian can help with medication and other ideas to reduce your pet’s exposure.

Get Help Fighting Pet Allergies in The Villages, FL

For pet allergies or any other pet health issues, call Oxford Animal Hospital today at (352) 461-1346 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Girard.