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Understanding Skin Allergies in Pets

Helping Pets With Itchy Skin, Hair Loss, & Allergies

At Neighborhood Veterinary Centers Calder, we understand how frustrating skin issues and allergies can be—for both pets and their families. Whether it’s nonstop scratching, hair loss, or red, irritated skin, our experienced team is here to help get to the root of the problem and bring your pet lasting relief.

What Do Skin Allergies Look Like in Dogs & Cats?

Skin allergies are one of the most common conditions we treat. They often show up as irritation, inflammation, or discomfort that your pet can’t hide. Left untreated, they can lead to infections and ongoing discomfort. Common signs include:

  • Constant licking, chewing, or scratching

  • Red, inflamed, or scabby skin

  • Hair loss or bald patches

  • Recurring ear infections or head shaking

  • Hives or raised bumps

  • Greasy or flaky skin

  • Odor coming from the skin or ears

  • Rubbing on furniture or carpet to relieve itchiness

If your pet is showing any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule an appointment. Early diagnosis helps prevent long-term skin damage and reduces the need for stronger medications later on.

How We Help Pets with Skin Issues and Allergies

We take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing, treating, and preventing skin conditions in pets. Whether your pet’s symptoms stem from allergies, infections, or other dermatological issues, our goal is to identify the cause and create a customized plan for lasting relief.

Diagnosing Allergies in Pets

We begin with a thorough physical exam, health history, and discussion about your pet’s environment and diet. Based on what we find, we may recommend:

  • Skin scrapings or cytology to check for mites, bacteria, or yeast

  • Allergy testing (blood or intradermal) to identify environmental allergens

  • Elimination diets to diagnose food sensitivities

  • Culture tests for chronic or recurring infections

By narrowing down the cause, we can treat your pet more effectively and reduce flare-ups.

Treatment Options for Allergies

Your pet’s treatment plan depends on the type and severity of their condition, but may include:

  • Prescription allergy medications or immunotherapy

  • Medicated shampoos or topical creams to soothe inflamed skin

  • Antibiotics or antifungal medications for infections

  • Dietary changes to address food-related triggers

  • Monthly parasite prevention to eliminate flea-related itching

We always customize treatment to fit your pet’s needs, with long-term comfort in mind.

Preventative Measures and Ongoing Care

While not all allergies can be cured, they can often be managed. We’ll partner with you to create an ongoing care plan that may include:

  • Routine bathing with vet-recommended shampoos

  • Allergen-reducing cleaning habits at home

  • Ongoing prescription medications or immunotherapy

  • Seasonal check-ins to adjust your pet’s plan

Common FAQ's on Pet Allergies

Can My Pet Grow Out of Allergies?

Some allergies, particularly food sensitivities, may lessen over time, but most environmental allergies require lifelong management.

Is Hair Loss in Pets Always Due to Allergies?

Not always. Hair loss can also be caused by parasites, hormonal imbalances, or infections. That’s why it’s important to get a full diagnostic workup.

How Do I Know if it’s Allergies or a Skin Infection?

In many cases, one leads to the other. Pets who scratch constantly may break the skin, allowing infection to set in. We’ll diagnose both the underlying cause and any secondary conditions.

A Better, Happier Life Starts Now

If your pet is experiencing skin issues or allergy symptoms, Neighborhood Veterinary Centers Calder is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward improving your pet's comfort and health.

Schedule AppointmentCall Now: (409) 276-6393