Pet Allergies FAQs

Pets provide a welcome bright spot in our days with their curiosity, silliness, and loving companionship. At Oak Grove Veterinary Hospital in San Jose, we make it our priority to provide all of our furry friends and their families with expert care so they can spend as much time with their favorite humans as possible. Pet allergies creep up during allergy season just as they do for humans, but pets can also have reactions to several other allergens, and some can be dangerous. We have gathered some of the questions that we run into regarding pet allergies.

Pet Allergies FAQs

Q: Are sneezing and congestion the only signs of pet allergies?

Your pet can present a range of symptoms that are not limited to respiratory problems, although a runny nose and sneezing are common symptoms. Much like what we experience during allergy season, they may suffer from red, itchy eyes and a tickling sensation in their sinuses. Pets can develop rashes on the skin in response to allergens, causing them to paw at the affected areas which are often around the face, paws, or belly. They may also experience swelling in these areas. Fortunately, anaphylactic shock in pets is rare, but they should be brought in to the vet immediately.

Q: What can prompt pet allergies?

Your pet can be affected by pollen, dust, and other environmental factors that plague animals during allergy season. Additionally, they can have allergic reactions to food, medication, chemicals like cleaning agents, and insect bites from wasps, fleas, or ticks.

Q: What should I do if I suspect that my pet is allergic to something in its food?

Food allergies usually come up with a sudden change in diet, like a new brand of food or treats. You will probably notice rashes around the mouth and stomach as well as diarrhea or vomiting. Make an appointment with your veterinarian and discontinue the current food. To flush the allergens out of their system, it is a good idea to feed your pet cooked chicken and rice for several meals before trying food that is recommended by our veterinarians.

Q: Is it really that important that I treat my pet for something as common as allergies?

Respiratory discomfort combined with rashes and swelling makes for constant frustration and pain, which takes its toll on your pet’s quality of life. When the symptoms get to the stage of facial or throat swelling, of course, the danger becomes immediate and can be life-threatening. In many instances, it takes some time to rule out certain allergens and narrow down the list of what your pet is exposed to in order to figure out how to avoid an allergic reaction, so it pays to get your pet seen by a veterinarian.

Get Relief for Your Pet’s Allergies in San Jose, CA

If your pet is displaying allergy symptoms and you live in or around San Jose, call our team at Oak Grove Veterinary Hospital today at (408) 227-1661 to schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians.

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Our front office does not close down for lunch.

San Jose Office

Monday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed