Who Knew? Pets Can Have Allergies Too

We all know that pets can cause allergies.  Some people are so allergic to the dander that pets shed that they aren’t able to experience the pleasure of pet ownership.  Yet did you realize that pets can have allergies of their own?  No, pets aren’t allergic to humans, but rather to some of the same things that people are.

Allergens Affecting Pets

Pets react to many of the same allergens that people do.  They may be bothered from the same seasonal culprits that get so many of us.  Various kinds of pollen can cause your pet to feel more like scratching or coughing than tail wagging or playing fetch.  In addition, pets can have an allergy to dust mites, molds, fleas, fabrics, and certain cleaning products and shampoos.  Ironically, some pets can also be allergic to pet dander.  Certain foods can also cause a problem for some pets.

Symptoms Pets May Experience

Since allergies can appear at any time, it is important to keep your eyes open to what may be bothering your pet.  Obviously, they can’t tell you that they are not feeling well, but luckily the symptoms are often apparent.  Allergies in pets, like in humans, usually manifest themselves with symptoms like itching and scratching, sneezing, eye irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea.  Other symptoms that you may notice in pets (but rarely see in people) include chewing of paws and licking affected itchy areas.

Treating Pet Allergies

Similar to treating allergies in people, the first step with pets is to find out what the specific allergy may be.  Sometimes this is easy to do, like when the purchase of new bedding is followed by the onset of allergy.  However, there are other times when it can be difficult to pinpoint what is causing your pet’s distress.  You may need a vet to help you identify the allergy.  Once found, you can try to eliminate the allergen from your pet’s environment.  Allergies such as dust mites, molds, and pet dander can be improved by regularly cleaning, especially of your pet’s bedding.   When these measures aren’t possible or don’t help, your vet may be able to recommend medication.

In short, when it comes to allergies, you and your pet have more in common than you might think.  If either you or your pet are affected by allergies, regular carpet cleaning by competent professionals like Langenwalter Carpet Cleaning will benefit you both.  Regularly removing the allergens that can build up in your carpet can help you and your pet stay healthy and comfortable.  Visit our website for more ways we can keep your home a clean, healthy place for your pets (and for you of course, too).