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You may not know it or be aware of the fact that there are food allergies in dogs and cats. Just as some humans suffer from allergies; dogs and cats can suffer with them as well. As a loving owner, you will want to do whatever you can to alleviate some of the discomforts and irritation that they may suffer from. In order to help your pet, you need to know why allergies occur and how to treat them.
Both dogs and cats suffer from food allergies. Some may develop an allergy because of certain ingredients found in a certain food or food group. It has been clinically studied that glucocorticoids (steroids) found in dog food can actually cause your pets to become unhealthy. This is due to the increased secretion of gastric acids, as well as a reduction in mucus production.
Steroids also lead to a decrease in the ability of absorption of iron and calcium. As a result, thinning of skin and hair, skin atrophy, dull hair and the like are noted. Furthermore, secondary disorders such as bacterial and viral infections, lethargy, and pancreatitis may also be brought on with foods that contain glucocorticoids.
The causes of food allergies – The main causes of food allergies in dogs and cats are dairy products, which contain lactose. Dogs and cats can also be allergic to wheat and sugar.
When a cat or dog becomes allergic to a particular food, they can begin to have symptoms that can include skin issues like rashes, eczema, and dandruff, which could lead to a dull coat and even hair loss. They can also be sentenced to having other complications such as, bloating, vomiting, dirrhea, and constipation.
Getting an allergy diagnosed
The best way to determine whether or not your dog or cat has an allergy, is to have your veterinarian do a physical checkup and examination of your dog's or cat's skin issues.
Treatments for these problems often involve the use of topical creams and antihistamines, but these can bring on unwanted side effects. Fortunately, there are other options that are also effective. Many times the use of steroids is prsecribed. Steriods act as an anti-inflammatory but suppress the immune system at the same time. Long term use of steroids can lead to many other problematic health issues, such as thinning of the bones, thinning of the skin, brusing easily, just to name a few.
A cure for food allergies – there are a number of natural remedies that you may use to treat your dog or cat's skin and digestive irritations.
A way to go about it is through homeopathy. It works with the same principle as' similia similibus curentur ;; wherein high amounts of toxic substances taken-in may lead to fatal results, but with a homeopathic, minute dose, it can actually save pets from becoming poisoned. There are products available which uses homeopathic ingredients, which have been proven to be very effective.
Herbal remedies are used in homeopathic veterinary medicine. The herbs listed here can be used to treat food allergies.
Glycyrrhiza glabra , is known as the licorice plant and is great for soothing an upset digestive system.
Althaea officinalis , is known as the marshmallow plant and is good for the mucus membranes in the digestive tract.
Matricaria recutita , also called the German chamomile plant. It is used as a gentle cleansing agent, as well as herbal remedy, to sooth agitated areas of the skin.
Calendula officinalis , is known as the pot marigold or scotch marigold which helps to restore the health of the skin and reduces the appearance of rashes.
Take care of your precious pets at home and when health issues do arise, be sure to provide them with only the safest and natural treatments available.
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Source by Hollye Clardy
