Allergy

Allergies in Dogs and Cats: Causes and Symptoms

Just like in humans, allergies in dogs and cats are abnormal immune system reactions to substances that are normally harmless, such as dust mites, pollen, flea bites, certain foods, or household cleaning products. These reactions often cause intense itching, red or irritated skin, and may be accompanied by hair loss, chronic ear infections, or excessive licking.

Without appropriate treatment, pets may injure themselves from scratching, increasing the risk of secondary skin infections. Early intervention is essential to relieve discomfort and prevent dermatological complications.

Treatment is often tailored to the underlying cause and may include oral medications, anti-inflammatory sprays, immunosuppressive capsules, or specific dietary management. Consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.

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What Veterinary Allergy Treatments Are Available?

Veterinary allergy treatments are available in several forms, depending on the cause and severity of symptoms:

• Oral tablets or capsules (such as Apoquel, Atopica, or Prednisone): these help regulate inflammatory and immune responses, reducing itching and redness.
• Topical sprays (such as Cortavance): applied directly to irritated skin to soothe localized inflammation.
• Antihistamines or corticosteroids: used based on the pet’s tolerance and needs to provide fast relief during allergic flare-ups.

In some cases, long-term maintenance therapy or allergen-specific immunotherapy may be recommended by your veterinarian.

These veterinary medications help effectively control allergic symptoms, improve your pet’s quality of life, and reduce the risk of recurrence. At AniPharm, we offer a complete selection of veterinarian-prescribed allergy treatments, delivered directly to your home anywhere in Quebec.

Allergy Medications Available at AniPharm

• Apoquel
• Atopica
• Cortavance
• Prednisone (apo)

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How can I tell if my dog or cat has an allergy?

Common signs of allergies in pets include itching, excessive licking, red skin, hair loss, or scabs. Some animals may also develop chronic ear infections or skin lesions caused by scratching.

If these symptoms persist, a veterinary consultation is necessary to identify the cause (food-related, environmental, or parasitic) and determine the appropriate treatment.

Can allergies in pets be cured?

Allergies cannot be completely cured, but they can be effectively managed with appropriate treatment and ongoing prevention.

The goal is to reduce symptoms and improve your pet’s quality of life. Regular veterinary follow-ups help adjust medications based on seasonal changes and symptom progression.

Are antiparasitic treatments safe for puppies and kittens?

Yes, but it is important to follow the minimum age and weight requirements specified for each medication. For example, Simparica Trio is approved for use starting at 8 weeks of age and a minimum weight of 1.25 kg. Always consult your veterinarian before administering a treatment for the first time.