Allergy Testing to Determine the Cause of Your Pet’s Discomfort

Pets get allergies, too! Dogs that scratch relentlessly, cats that chew or lick constantly, sneezing pocket pets, even birds that pluck out their feathers may all be signaling an allergy attack.

Crescenta Valley Veterinary Hospital is equipped to perform blood tests to determine the cause of your pets’ allergies. Our veterinary team communicates extensively with pet owners to identify all allergens and treat them with the most effective methods available. While this process can be frustrating, we are here to support you and your pet during our efforts to find relief—for both of you.

Types of Allergies in Pets

An allergen is a substance that causes sensitivities, and identifying the problem substance is key to relieving the discomfort. The most common symptom of allergies in pets is scratching, although other symptoms may appear such as respiratory distress or generalized malaise.

Allergens can cause a reaction through inhalation, ingestion, or contact. The contact types vary and may be easier to diagnose, such as an obvious reaction to parasites, or more difficult to determine, such as an allergy to wool.

Some allergens are found in food, most commonly corn, wheat, soy, beef, and dairy products. Others are in household products such as cleaning supplies. Your careful observation is a major contribution, helping the veterinarian determine which substances to test for in diagnosing your pet’s problem.

Symptoms of Allergy

Any change in environment, diet, or climate can trigger an allergic response. The first sign of many types of allergic reaction appears on the skin and results in scratching, licking, biting, or rubbing. This behavior can lead to infection, characterized by redness, bumps, abrasions, and bald spots.

However, it may be that your pet demonstrates a variety of symptoms that seem unrelated to one another or confusing to you. Never wait to see if symptoms subside or if your pet will get better without intervention. Allergies can cause substantial discomfort, digestive and respiratory concerns, systemic infections, or stress to internal organs. Some animals will simply shut down, giving the appearance of improvement, when their systems are really quite compromised.

To avoid infection or added complications, it is important to get a veterinary exam as soon as possible. We may even be able to begin treatment at that time, to relieve symptoms and start the healing process.

Contact the hospital at once if you suspect your pet is having an allergic reaction.