# Allergies in Dogs & Cats

Itchy skin, sore ears, and constant licking? Allergies are frustrating, but with consistent care, we can keep your pet comfortable.

## What is Allergic Disease?

Allergies in pets are usually a chronic skin condition triggered by environmental factors (like pollen, dust mites, or mould) or, less commonly, food. The immune system overreacts to these triggers, causing inflammation and itching.

Allergic skin disease tends to flare up, often seasonally. With the right management — medication, topical treatments, and sometimes dietary changes — most allergic pets can stay comfortable year-round.

## Signs & Symptoms

Common signs of allergies in dogs and cats include:

- Constant itching or scratching
- Licking paws or legs
- Red, inflamed skin
- Recurrent ear infections
- Head shaking
- Hair loss or bald patches
- Rashes or hot spots
- Rubbing face on furniture

## Testing & Diagnosis

Allergies are usually diagnosed based on your pet's history and clinical signs. We may also take samples to rule out other causes of itching, like parasites or infections.

### Included with Snoots

- Skin scrapes (checking for mites and parasites)
- Skin cytology (checking for infection)
- Ear cytology

*Formal allergy testing (blood or intradermal) is not included in Snoots membership but can be arranged if needed.

## Treatment & Ongoing Care

Treatment depends on your pet's symptoms and triggers. Options include anti-itch medications (tablets or injections), medicated shampoos, ear treatments, and sometimes dietary trials.

Allergies often need long-term management. With Snoots, you can bring your pet in as often as needed during flare-ups — without worrying about per-visit charges.

## What's Included with Snoots

- Unlimited consultations for flare-ups and reviews
- Skin scrapes and cytology
- Ear cytology for recurrent infections
- Discounted medication
- Free written prescriptions
- WhatsApp support 7 days a week

## Why Snoots Is Different

Allergies mean frequent vet visits. With Snoots, those visits are already covered.

### Traditional Vets

- Pay for every flare-up consultation
- Skin tests and cytology billed separately
- Costs mount up over allergy season

### Snoots Membership

- Unlimited consultations, no per-visit fees
- Skin scrapes and cytology included
- One monthly fee, predictable every month

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Can allergies be cured?

### Will my pet need medication long-term?

### How do I know if my pet's ears are infected?

### What if dietary changes don't help?