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Allergic
skin disease (ASD) is one of the most common problems seen in dogs and
cats. The key sign of allergic skin disease is the presence of an itch.
In dogs this may cause scratching, especially on the feet
and tummy and sore ears. In cats, itching may be demonstrated by overgrooming,
often resulting in small scabs on the skin along with hair loss, and
sometimes larger sores. Cats
with allergic disease may also develop little sores around the mouth and
on the tongue. In addition to itching, other signs of allergic skin
disease include recurrent ear infections, hair loss, and dry flaky skin.
The
above signs can also be caused by other diseases, especially parasites (such as
fleas & mites), hormone imbalances, and stress
(especially in cats). It is therefore very important that your pet is
thoroughly examined by the vet before a diagnosis is made.
In
dogs and cats in the
UK
, the most common cause of allergic skin disease is a reaction to flea bites. This tends to develop later in life, and
can be difficult to diagnose as no fleas may be seen. In fact, just one or two
bites can cause a severe reaction. It is for this reason that all
animals showing signs of ASD are treated with an effective flea product. All other cats and dogs in
the same household should also be treated. In addition, because the vast
majority of fleas live off the animal (i.e. as eggs and larvae in the
carpets), it is vital that the home environment is treated with a
recommended product. The carpets, skirting boards, under the sofas/beds,
and areas that the animals rests are the most important areas to spray.
Bedding used by pets should be washed at a high temperature.
Only
once flea-bite allergy is ruled out is it worth investigating other forms of ASD. These include
allergy to grasses
and pollens (atopy), food allergies, and contact allergies (anything that the
pet's skin may come into contact with). Further investigations include diet
trials (whereby a hypoallergenic diet is fed exclusively for at least 6
weeks), or hypersensitivity testing (from a blood sample or by skin
tests).
There
are certain drugs which are used routinely in cases of ASD and these
include:
Antibiotics:
Most animals that have ASD have some infection of the skin (pyoderma)
which requires antibiotics. Even animals that have the disease under
control may have flare-ups that require treatment with antibiotics.
Pets are usually given long courses of treatment that may last
2-3 weeks or longer and it is important to finish the course of tablets to the
end, even if you pet looks better.
(Cortico)steroids:
These medications stop you pet itching by reducing the inflammation
associated with the allergy. Short
term use is generally very safe, however, they should not be used
long-term unless as a last resort, as side-effects can occur
from long-term use.
Cyclosporin:
This
is another type of antiinflammatory drug without the side effects of
steroids (but it may still have side effects). The disadvantage is the
cost compared to steroids.
Antihistamines:
Can be helpful in mild cases especially to prevent itching. In
more severe cases or where the skin is already sore they may be given
alongside other treatment for instance to reduce the amount of steroids
Essential
fatty acids (EFAs):
Evening Primrose Oil and/or Whole Fish Oil can be added to your pets’
diet. These can be bought
from most chemists or supermarkets and can be fed as whole capsules or
the oil from the capsule emptied directly onto food. EFAs improve the
condition of the skin and may help reduce the ‘itchyness’.
Special veterinary preparations are also available – please ask
your vet about these.
Shampoos:
Medicated shampoos prescribed the vet are invaluable in helping
stabilise the itchy patient. These
work by moisturising the skin and maintaining a healthy balance of the
normal micro-organisms found on your pets skin.
The instructions of use should be strictly adhered to for them to
work effectively.
Vaccines:
Special vaccines can be made up for some pets with allergic skin
problems which given on a regular basis can help to reduce the need for
other drugs and keep them itch free. Allergy tests are essential for the
correct components of the vaccine to be made.
Cases
of ASD can be frustrating and difficult to manage initially, but given
time, patience, and commitment to treatment, the vast majority of
animals can be kept itch free in the long term.
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