Allergies become rampant due to a lot of factors such as lack of moisture or due to moist skin, leading to bacterial allergies, fungal allergies, sneezing, coughing, less consumption and so on. Just as these symptoms are seen commonly in human beings, pets too get affected with allergies and they are to be taken care of.
One has to be very attentive to details, when it comes to handling pets and see if there is a change in the behavioural patterns or if the pet is experiencing some uneasiness. Allergies can also be seasonal, as the pets are prone to heat stroke during summer and can develop fungal infections during rainy seasons, which calls for the need to keep the skin dry.
Sheela Subramanian, pet owner, who likes to call herself the mother of Krishna the mongrel, talks about the things that affects pets the most and about the causes for allergies. She says, “As far as handling my pet is concerned, I noticed that a change in water, floor cleaners, cement, paints, disinfectants and many such factors lead to allergies. One has to take care of them, if they notice symptoms such as sneezing, restlessness, blisters on the skin and itching.”
Sheela adds that self remedy does not help in such cases. One must always take the pet to a veterinarian on a regular basis and try not to change doctors.
R Siva, chief veterinarian, Blue Cross of India, says, “Pets can be allergic to dust, disinfectants, weed pollens in grass, the kind of environment they are in, the food they consume and even the smell of a cigarette. Proper cleaning in the house is necessary and giving the pets a weekly bath with medicated shampoos can help in this regard.”
He adds, “If the allergy is caused by fleas, then the pets can be prescribed to a flea control programme, which will be an effective medication for atleast one or two months.”
Complete carelessness on the part of pet owners such as not maintaining a cleaner environment for the pets can make things worse for the pets, according to him. So, if you notice that your pet’s skin has turned red in colour, if they have a frequent cough, swelling, itching or loose motion, give them utmost care and consult a veterinarian as early as possible.
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