When your pet has allergies, it can be a pain for you and your companion.
Our team at easyvet Midlothian understands how frustrating allergies can be. Allergies in pets can cause itching, discomfort, and other health issues, but with the right care, we can help your four-legged friend find relief. When your cat or dog needs allergy testing or treatments in the Midlothian, VA area, we can aid in ending your pet’s suffering.
Allergy Testing for Pets: Finding the Source of the Problem
Identifying the cause of your pet’s allergies is the first step toward effective treatment. Pets can develop allergies to a wide range of triggers, including dust mites, pollen, mold, or fleas. At easyvet Midlothian, we offer pet allergy testing to help pinpoint the cause. For certain conditions, we can perform skin scrapings in-house to check for signs of parasitic or fungal infections that may cause allergy-like symptoms. For more comprehensive testing, we will collect a blood sample that is sent to an external lab for allergy testing.
Once our team receives the results of your pet’s testing, we will reach out to you. Depending on your pet’s symptoms, we may also refer you to a local veterinary dermatologist for a specialist’s diagnosis.
Can our vet test for food allergies in cats or dogs?
Unlike environmental allergies, food allergies cannot be diagnosed through a blood test. If a food allergy is suspected, the best approach is a diet trial. During this process, your pet will switch to a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet for several weeks to see if symptoms improve. This method will hopefully identify the specific ingredient causing the reaction.
Once the allergen is identified, we can recommend dietary changes that still meet your pet’s nutritional needs so that your companion remains symptom-free. While it takes patience, a diet trial is the most reliable way to manage food allergies effectively.
Treating Your Pet’s Allergies
Treating pet allergies involves addressing the symptoms and preventing further exposure to allergens. At easyvet Midlothian, we offer several treatment options, including:
Medications:
Antihistamines, corticosteroids, or other medications reduce itching and inflammation.
Topical Treatments:
Medicated shampoos can soothe irritated skin and provide localized relief.
Flea and Tick Preventatives:
These medications prevent future infestations and irritation. We strongly recommend that all pets are on preventatives year-round.
Lifestyle Adjustments:
Our vet will give guidance on managing your pet’s environment to minimize exposure to allergens like dust or pollen.
Our veterinarian will work with you to create an allergy management plan that addresses your pet’s allergen and provides long-term relief.
Testing and treatment for pet allergies in Midlothian, VA.
No pet should have to suffer from the discomfort of allergies. Our team at easyvet Midlothian will help your pet feel better with personalized care and effective treatments. If your pet is showing signs of allergies, schedule an allergy consultation with our team today.
easyvet Midlothian offers pet allergy testing and treatment for cats and dogs in Midlothian, North Chesterfield, Hallsboro, Holly Hills, Woodlake, Tarrington, Westchester, and the eastern Richmond area.
