Allergies & Dermatology
Allergies and dermatological issues in pets often have very similar symptoms and can, sometimes, be difficult to get to the bottom of. At Wesson Animal Clinic, we work thoroughly when diagnosing and treating allergies and dermatological concerns in pets using comprehensive diagnostics capabilities and a systematic treatment approach.
Understanding Pet Allergies and Veterinary Dermatology
Dermatology is a branch of veterinary medicine that focuses on a pet’s skin and coat health and the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the skin and coat such as bacterial, viral, fungal infections, and more. Allergies in pets are often considered a dermatological issue (even though allergies are actually an inflammatory, immune system issue) because they typically cause several skin-related symptoms.
What to Look for: Symptoms of Allergies and Dermatological Issues in Pets
Symptoms of allergies and other dermatological issues in pets include:
Excessive itchiness (pruritus)
- Red or inflamed skin
- Rashes
- Scabs
- Lumps, bumps, or other growths
- Frequent ear infections
- Foul-smelling skin
- Hot spots
- Hair loss and bald patches
- Swelling
- Red or swollen paws
- Excessive dander
If you notice any of these symptoms or other changes in your pet’s appearance, behavior, appetite, energy level, or temperament, we encourage you to schedule an appointment right away.
Common Causes of Dermatological Problems in Pets
There are several health problems that can lead to dermatological issues and the above-listed symptoms. These include:
- Food allergies
- Flea allergies
- Environmental allergies
- Parasites
- Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections
- Autoimmune diseases
Diagnosing Your Pet's Skin Issue
When a pet has dermatological symptoms, we can provide treatment to help soothe your pet and alleviate their discomfort. However, before providing treatment to address the underlying cause of the issue and truly resolve their problems, we need to perform diagnostic testing and a comprehensive examination to reach a diagnosis.
Diagnostic tests might include blood work, biopsies, skin scrapings, and/or aspirations. These tests enable us to look for clinical signs of abnormalities that indicate a specific underlying cause of your pet’s symptoms.
Pet Allergy and Dermatological Care in Mobile, Alabama
Once we have a clear diagnosis and understanding of the underlying cause of your pet’s symptoms, our veterinarian at Wesson Animal Clinic can work with you to develop a treatment plan.
Treatments for allergies and dermatological concerns vary based on the pet’s diagnosis. Treatments might include environmental changes, prescription pet food, medicated baths, topical ointments or creams, drops, prescription medications such as antibiotics or steroids, and/or immunotherapy treatments.
To learn more about allergies, dermatology, and your pet’s health or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian, we welcome you to contact our office today.
