Dogs and cats experience allergies when exposed to a substance that triggers an overreaction in the immune system. If you think that your pet may have allergies, the vets at Milford Animal Hospital in Clermont County, OH, recommend familiarizing yourself with the symptoms so that you can eliminate the trigger and deliver the right kind of treatment. 

To get to the bottom of the following common allergies in dogs and cats, keep an eye out for the symptoms and then visit your vet: 

• Food: A food allergy manifests itself in pets as itchy skin and ears and digestive issues. By controlling their diet and experimenting with different foods, you can identify the item that’s triggering the immune system. Once doing so, you should remove this from their diet.
• Fleas: A single flea bite can trigger an allergic reaction that lasts for weeks. When a dog has a severe allergy to fleas, they will scratch and lick themselves constantly. To treat this, bathe your pet in an anti-flea and -tick shampoo, and then start using flea prevention methods.
• Plants, Fungi, & Pollen: Animals can have seasonal allergies just like humans. Exposure to certain grasses, molds, and flowers can cause dogs and cats to sneeze or experience itching. Talk to your vet about pet antihistamines to minimize symptoms.
• Cleaning Products: Sometimes, the chemicals that you use to clean your home will cause an allergic reaction in dogs and cats. To keep your furry friend healthy and comfortable, you’ll want to identify this product and replace it with an eco-friendly alternative that’s toxin-free.

The trick to treating your pet’s allergies is finding the source of the problem and eliminating it from your home. To see how the vets at Milford Animal Hospital can help, call (513) 831-5530, or visit them online for an overview of services.