Relieving Cat and Dog Allergies in Columbus, OH

Many of the things that cause allergies in humans can also elicit an allergic reaction in pets. These include:

• Pollen from trees and flowers
• Grass
• Mold spores
• Animal and human dander
• Dust and dust mites
• Fleas
• Proteins in their food (rare)
• Cleaning solutions
• Synthetic fabrics

Cat and dog allergies do share some similar symptoms with human allergies, such as sneezing, runny eyes, and a runny nose. But the most common issues we see include:

• Scratching and biting at itchy skin
• Areas of hair loss between the toes and other parts of the body
• Redness and irritation of the skin
• Red, inflamed ears/ear infections
• Noticeable odor
• Over grooming (particularly in cats)

While we cannot permanently cure your pet’s allergies, we can reduce their symptoms significantly and increase their quality of life.

First, we need to make sure that your pet’s condition is in fact an allergy, and not some other issue. We will need to examine your pet and perform testing to eliminate other possibilities. With allergy testing, we can figure out what is causing the allergies in the first place and incorporate that knowledge into your pet’s treatment plan.

Some of our allergy treatments for cats and dogs include:

• Injectable anti-itch medication (Cytopoint)
• A daily anti-itch oral medication (Apoquel)
• Topical therapy (spray or ointment)
• Immunotherapy, which reduces allergen sensitivity in certain cases
• Flea prevention (for flea bite allergies)
• Antihistamines
• Antifungals and antibiotics (to treat any existing secondary bacterial infections)

With patience and a strict, persistent treatment plan, we can help you ease your pet’s discomfort and return them to a healthier, more comfortable life.