An allergic reaction is an excessive reaction of the immune system to external stimuli.
Trigger and process in the body
An allergic reaction is an excessive reaction of the immune system to external stimuli. A food, contact with mites, fleas or the like can be just as triggering as an insect bite. Unfortunately, our pets can also have an allergic reaction to vaccinations or medication. The prerequisite for this is that the immune system has previously had contact with the trigger (allergen).
To put it simply, the body’s otherwise helpful defense cells form a completely exaggerated number of antibodies, which subsequently trigger symptoms that are visible to us.
A body that has already been weakened by stress or illness is much more susceptible to an allergy. The amount of allergens that affect the immune system is also important. For example, a dog that is bitten by two or more insects on the same day may show no symptoms from the first bite, but may show symptoms from the second.
Possible symptoms
In the most harmless case, an insect bite causes mild local swelling or slight restlessness and itching. Here it helps to make cooling poultices or local baths with cold water.
Diarrhea and vomiting can also be signs of an allergic overreaction.
The formation of small “nodules” (hives) or flat swellings in the skin, which are accompanied by severe itching, are also part of the extended symptom picture of the allergic reaction.
At the latest when shortness of breath develops, which can be recognized by an increased breathing rate and a previously non-existent breathing noise and is often accompanied by severe restlessness, you should see a veterinarian.
Treatment
Of course, the veterinarian always decides on site in each individual case what measures need to be taken. Antihistamines, cortisone (low doses), gastric protection and continuous drip infusions, as well as medication for vomiting or diarrhea, are often used here.
Once the cause of an allergic reaction has been clearly identified (e.g. after vaccinations or insect bites), you as the owner can play a crucial role in preventing further incidents by informing the veterinarian.
