Allergies are the immune system’s overreaction to a foreign substance. People and pets can suffer from allergies to their environment, foods, chemicals, medications and their skin coming into contact with something. The most common allergies in dogs and cats show up as skin issues, but the root cause needs to be discovered.

Pets can have severe allergic reactions to fleas and ticks — and their bites or the treatments commonly used to eradicate these pests. Another cause of skin problems in pets is an allergy to the ingredients in their food.

Typical skin reactions to allergies can include rashes, scratching, scabs, open sores, chewing fur or bald spots, itching ears or infections, runny nose or eyes, swelling of parts of the face, diarrhea and vomiting. Other allergy symptoms can present themselves, such as anaphylaxis (severe, life-threatening reactions), but these are rare.

Allergy symptoms in pets can be treated temporarily with antihistamines prescribed by your vet. Although this will provide temporary relief, you will still need to search out the root cause. For example, if you suspect the animal’s food is the problem, have your vet recommend an allergy free food or look for a grain free, allergy free option from a high quality brand. Cutting the old food completely and transitioning the animal to the new food can show results in as little as a few days.

Other allergens to consider are the chemicals you are using to clean your home, especially the floors where the pets walk. An all-natural cleaner is recommended, even using vinegar and water to clean surfaces can rapidly improve your pet’s health and issues.

The most common allergen, fleas and ticks and the residue they leave on your pet, can be eliminated almost immediately by treating the animal with a vet approved flea and tick preventative, bathing the animal and washing all their bedding and toys. If you live in an area where these pests are prevalent, using a monthly treatment would be advised. Otherwise, you will be putting your pet through an allergy-free few weeks, only to have the symptoms and pests return.

Do not self-medicate your pet, as even the slightest overdose of an allergy medicine could be fatal. If your pet is displaying any of the above symptoms, please see your veterinarian right away for the proper treatment.