General
Information
The same pollens and
house dust that cause allergic reactions in people often
cause allergic dermatitis in dogs and cats. Allergic dermatitis
is an inflammation of the skin. It can be caused by many
things, but regardless of the source, the end result is
licking, scratching,
and hair loss. This constant trauma will often cause chronic
infections.
Causes
Of Itching
It can be very difficult
to distinguish between true allergies and the many local
irritants that can cause discomfort to your pet. Some examples
of each are listed below:
Allergic
Causes/Results: |
Flea Saliva/Flea Bite Allergy
Poison Ivy, Wandering Jew/Contact
Dermatitis
House Dust, Ragweed/Inhalant Dermatitis
Certain Protein Sources/Food Allergy
|
Non-Allergic
Causes/Results: |
Tick Infestation/Tick
Bites
Incomplete Shampoo
Removal/Contact Dermatitis
Flea Infestation/Flea
Bites
|
Fungi/Ringworm: |
Sarcoptes, Otodectes/Mange
Bacteria/Pyoderma
Your
Veterinarian Can Help
|
To achieve success in treating allergic
dermatitis, make sure you follow the instructions of your
veterinarian. Your pets allergy may need to be managed by
numerous methods including injections, oral medications,
topical shampoos, dips, ointments, environmental
treatments.
