Whether you have had your pet for years or just adopted them, you may not be aware of all of their allergies. Some animals can develop allergies later in life, even to foods or substances they have consumed in the past without problems. If your pet does have an allergy, they are at risk of a life-threatening reaction. It’s important to recognize the warning signs and know what to do in an emergency situation. Getting your pet to a veterinary urgent care center in Tucson, AZ, as soon as possible can ensure your pet’s health and safety.
Understanding Pet Allergic Reactions
A severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis can affect any pet, regardless of their age or breed. The reaction occurs when your pet’s immune system overreacts to a foreign substance or food. This causes a sequence of events within the body, including the release of inflammatory chemicals called histamines. These chemicals cause widespread inflammation that affects your pet’s organs and body systems.
Common Triggers of Allergic Reactions or Anaphylaxis
Allergies can develop at any age, and your pet can develop a food allergy even after years of eating the same diet. Many substances can trigger an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis in pets. The most common ones are insect bites, medications, food proteins, and environmental toxins, including:
- Bee, wasp, hornet, and fire ant stings
- Reptile venom, like a rattlesnake bite
- Food proteins, including beef, chicken, dairy, lamb, eggs, soy, and wheat
- Other food substances, including corn, rice, pork, fish, rabbit, and walnuts
- Antibiotics, steroids, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories
- Chemicals and environmental pollutants
- Extreme temperatures
- Strenuous exercise
Symptoms and Warning Signs of an Allergic Reaction in Pets
Recognizing the symptoms of a serious allergic reaction will allow you to act quickly to get your pet the emergency care they need. The most common symptoms are:
- Trouble breathing, including rapid, shallow breathing or wheezing
- Facial swelling or swelling of the neck
- Skin changes, such as a rash, welts, hives, and intense itching
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy and weakness
- Disorientation and confusion
- Trouble standing or walking
- Excessive thirst, panting, or drooling
- Sudden collapse
What to Do if Your Pet Has an Allergic Reaction
If you suspect your pet is having an allergic reaction, you must act quickly. Every moment counts. Call the closest veterinary urgent care clinic to let them know you are on your way. Do not administer any care, medications, or home remedies to your pet. They could possibly worsen your pet’s condition. If possible, bring the substance that caused the allergic reaction with you. If that isn’t possible, take a picture of it, including the list of ingredients on the packaging. If your pet was bitten or stung by something, be prepared to tell the veterinarian what it was or show them a photo.
At Tucson Veterinary Urgent Care, we offer pet urgent care services in Tucson, AZ, including diagnostics, in-house laboratory services, radiography, and treatment for poisoning, allergic reactions, and breathing problems. We are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week and 365 days a year. Please call ahead for triage and let us know that you are on your way. We also offer online check-in services and accept walk-in patients.
