Taking Allergies Seriously This Spring

 Allergies are just as irritating to pets as they are to humans

- Mientjie Kleinhans

We all know, at some point in our lives, what it feels like to have an allergy. With symptoms ranging from a runny nose to itchy eyes or even a rash, it is an irritating feeling that makes us miserable. So why would we want to put our beloved pets through similar discomfort if we can prevent it?

Allergies can be caused by fleas and a myriad of environmental allergens, such as pollen, moulds and dust mites. Some of these are very prevalent in spring and summer.

Allergies are common in both cats and dogs. In most cases, there is not much that we can do about the allergens, but we can get rid of parasites, such as fleas, to an extent.

Dr Guy Fyvie, veterinary advisor to Hill’s Pet Nutrition South Africa, says that allergy symptoms often show on the skin. “Areas around the feet, face, ears, armpits or groin are most commonly affected. You may also see hair loss, crusting or scaling.”