Allergy

5.3.4 Allergy An allergy occurs when the body reacts to a substance inside, or in contact with the skin. This substance may be something that does not cause problems in other animals.

Allergies can be divided into two types:

1. Severe allergic reactions can cause shock, difficult breathing, and sometimes death; and 2. Mild allergic reactions can cause itching, swelling or redness of the skin, urticaria (hives), blisters in the mouth, sneezing, eye irritation, or excessive tears from the eyes.

Major Allergic Reactions Affecting Breathing (Anaphylaxis)

These may be caused by insect bites, food, or medicines.

Symptoms: The symptoms often start soon after exposure and may include difficult breathing, a rapid, weak pulse and collapse. The throat may also be swollen inside.

Treatment: Immediately remove the source of the allergy; give adrenalin (also called epinephrine), antihistamines, and steroids (see dosages in pharmacy section) immediately or as soon as possible if these medicines are available.

Mild Allergic Reactions These most often result from insect bites, food, medicines, plants, insects (like caterpillars) or chemicals. These are not usually serious conditions that will kill an animal quickly.

Symptoms: Mild allergies often occur soon after exposure. They are usually seen as skin allergies (red spots, itching and/or swelling of the skin), blisters in the mouth, red teary eyes and sneezing.