Allergies are a common problem for dogs, and can cause a range of symptoms including itching, redness, and inflammation. Allergy tablets can be an effective way to alleviate these symptoms and make your dog more comfortable. However, it’s important to choose the right allergy tablets for your dog, as not all of them are safe. In this article, we’ll discuss which allergy tablets dogs can have.
1. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a type of allergy tablet that can be used to treat allergies in dogs. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, which is a chemical that is released by the body in response to allergens.
There are several types of antihistamines that are safe for dogs, including diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, and cetirizine. These antihistamines can be purchased over-the-counter or prescribed by a veterinarian.
It’s important to follow the dosage instructions carefully when giving antihistamines to your dog. Overdosing on antihistamines can cause side effects such as drowsiness, vomiting, and diarrhea.
2. Steroids
Steroids are another type of allergy tablet that can be used to treat allergies in dogs. They work by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system.
Steroids can be very effective in treating allergies in dogs, but they should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian. Long-term use of steroids can cause side effects such as weight gain, increased thirst and urination, and an increased risk of infection.
3. Cyclosporine
Cyclosporine is a prescription allergy tablet that can be used to treat allergies in dogs. It works by suppressing the immune system, which can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate allergy symptoms.
Cyclosporine can be very effective in treating allergies in dogs, but it can also cause side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions carefully when giving cyclosporine to your dog.
4. Apoquel
Apoquel is a prescription allergy tablet that is specifically designed for dogs. It works by blocking the release of certain chemicals in the body that cause itching and inflammation.
Apoquel can be very effective in treating allergies in dogs, but it can also cause side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions carefully when giving Apoquel to your dog.
5. Atopica
Atopica is a prescription allergy tablet that can be used to treat allergies in dogs. It works by suppressing the immune system, which can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate allergy symptoms.
Atopica can be very effective in treating allergies in dogs, but it can also cause side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions carefully when giving Atopica to your dog.
6. Benadryl
Benadryl is a brand of diphenhydramine, which is an antihistamine that is safe for dogs. It can be used to treat a range of allergy symptoms, including itching, swelling, and redness.
It’s important to follow the dosage instructions carefully when giving Benadryl to your dog. Overdosing on Benadryl can cause side effects such as drowsiness, vomiting, and diarrhea.
7. Claritin
Claritin is a brand of loratadine, which is an antihistamine that is safe for dogs. It can be used to treat a range of allergy symptoms, including itching, swelling, and redness.
It’s important to follow the dosage instructions carefully when giving Claritin to your dog. Overdosing on Claritin can cause side effects such as drowsiness, vomiting, and diarrhea.
8. Zyrtec
Zyrtec is a brand of cetirizine, which is an antihistamine that is safe for dogs. It can be used to treat a range of allergy symptoms, including itching, swelling, and redness.
It’s important to follow the dosage instructions carefully when giving Zyrtec to your dog. Overdosing on Zyrtec can cause side effects such as drowsiness, vomiting, and diarrhea.
9. Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several types of allergy tablets that are safe for dogs. Antihistamines, steroids, cyclosporine, Apoquel, Atopica, Benadryl, Claritin, and Zyrtec can all be used to treat allergies in dogs.
It’s important to consult with a veterinarian before giving any allergy tablets to your dog. A veterinarian can help to determine the underlying cause of your dog’s allergies and recommend the appropriate treatment.
It’s also important to follow the dosage instructions carefully when giving allergy tablets to your dog. Overdosing on allergy tablets can cause side effects and may be harmful to your dog’s health.
Overall, allergy tablets can be an effective way to alleviate the symptoms of allergies in dogs and make them more comfortable. With the right treatment, your dog can live a happy and healthy life, free from the discomfort of allergies.