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Allergies in pets, just like in humans, cannot be "cured,"
according to the veterinarians at Petland. Allergies require
treatment as needed for a pet's entire life. In pets, allergies
generally fall into three major categories -- flea allergy,
inhalant allergy or food allergy -- and combinations thereof.
Flea allergies are the most common and cause about 75 to
80 percent of the itching, skin irritation and hair loss in
dogs and cats. Flea allergic animals should be protected by
long acting adult flea control products such as Frontline
for the entire flea season, basically spring to fall. Occasionally,
pets may require antihistamines, cortisone injections or pills
distributed by a licensed veterinarian to help relieve skin
irritation.
Inhalant allergies account for about 15 to 20 percent of
the allergies in pets. This category includes allergies to
airborne sources such as ragweed, grasses, pollens, molds
and dust. Pets with this type of allergy typically lick their
feet, rub their faces and get rashes on their bellies. They
also may get ear infections. Symptoms are usually seasonal.
Again, antihistamines, cortisone and antibiotics, issued by
a veterinarian, can be helpful in treating seasonal outbreaks.
Non-stop, year-round allergies in this category may require
shots for desensitization and a long-term solution.
Food allergies affect about 10 percent of pets. Symptoms
often include ear infections, red skin and itching. The only
way to find out if the pet is allergic to a food is to conduct
a feeding trial with a hypoallergenic diet. Long-term management
means feeding foods that don't cause the allergic symptoms.
With a proper veterinary diagnosis and proper care, Petland
says a pet can live a normal life even with allergies.
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