Treating Cat and Dog Allergies with Dermatology in Pewaukee, WI
Your pet’s allergies are different from your own. Pets often suffer from itchy, irritated skin that drives them to scratch, lick, and bite at themselves incessantly. Since pet allergies manifest as skin conditions, dermatology is the best branch of veterinary medicine to relieve your pet’s discomfort. At Pewaukee Veterinary Service, we’re experts in cat and dog allergy treatments and management because of the prevalence of allergies in Waukesha county’s pets.
Cat and Dog Allergy Symptoms and Causes
Do you notice your pet scratching themselves more than usual in the summer and fall? Do they lick their paws or bite at their skin? Chances are, your pet has seasonal allergies! Yet there are a variety of other allergens that can cause allergic reactions. Symptoms and common allergens include:
- Red, inflamed skin
- Dry, scaly patches of skin
- Hot spots
- Hair loss (alopecia)
- Frequent ear infections
- A foul odor coming from the skin
- Tree, grass, or weed pollens
- Mold and mildew
- Dust and dust mites
- Cleaning products
- Perfumes
- Materials such as rubber or plastics
- Fabrics
- Fleas (flea allergy dermatitis)
- Food ingredients (beef, pork, eggs, dairy, etc.)
Think your pet has allergies?
Bring them to us for itch relief!
or call (262) 347-0787.
Cat and Dog Allergy Treatments
If you suspect your pet may be suffering from allergies, our cat and dog dermatology services can confirm that diagnosis, so we can work on a treatment plan to get them the relief they deserve. First, we’ll perform diagnostic tests including skin scrapings, bloodwork, and bacterial cultures to rule out other possible causes for skin problems. Once we determine your pet suffers from an allergy, your veterinarian will start your pet on a treatment plan which, depending on your cat or dog’s allergy, may include:
- Cytopoint (an injectable for dogs that blocks inflammation in nerve receptors that are responsible for causing itchiness for 4-6 weeks)
- Apoquel (a daily tablet for dogs that blocks the itch at its source)
- Atopica (a daily treatment that relieves the itch for cats and dogs alike)
- Antibiotics (for the treatment of secondary bacterial infections)
- Antifungals (for the treatment of secondary fungal infections)
- Antihistamines
- Topical creams
- Medicated shampoos and rinses
- Food elimination trial (for pets with suspected food allergies)
Please keep in mind that every pet is different and therefore, their treatment solution will be different, too. Our veterinarians will work with you to develop the perfect plan that works for you and your pet!