Allergies can be concerning, and even possibly life threatening for your dog. It could even drastically lessen the quality of life of your dog. So, it is important for you to be aware of the possible allergies that your dog could suffer from. This article talks about the most common allergies that could affect your dog: Flea allergy dermatitis: A pretty common allergy amongst dogs, flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) occurs when the saliva in the flea bites cause an allergic reaction. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, FAD is the commonest dermatological disease in domestic dogs in the country. FAD is rampant during warm weather, such as the summer months. The reactions occur when the fleas bite, injecting saliva into the host, which contains compounds similar to amino acids, polypeptides, enzymes, and histamine. FAD can affect the entire body. One of the most natural remedies for FAD is medicated shampoo baths and a flea medication collar to prevent them from coming back. Seasonal allergies: Dogs can also suffer from seasonal allergies as well, the signs of which include sneezing, red, puffy eyes, loss of hair, itching, and irritated skin with hives and rashes. Usually, there is no natural treatment for seasonal allergies. The dog needs to be taken to the vet who will prescribe antihistamines and OTC medications, such as benadryl, for your pet pooch. Human food allergies: Human food allergies are quite common in dogs, with almost 10% of all dog allergy cases being food-related. Allergies occur when the dog’s body wrongly identifies a certain food as harmful, and produces antibodies that lead to a variety of potentially dangerous symptoms. Symptoms could be anything from nausea, vomiting, and itching to gastrointestinal issues, ear inflammation, and diarrhea. Dogs can be allergic to various foods including dairy, soy, wheat, fish, chicken, beef, pork, and more.

Being a pet owner comes with a few responsibilities, especially if your dog or cat begins to have fleas. Flea infestation can be a constant worrisome issue to deal with. Fleas are parasites that suck on the blood of the host (dog or cat). As a result, the infestation can be a problem in one’s home, causing bite marks, which could eventually lead to sore wounds, allergies, and diseases. If one notices the infestation of fleas in their house or on their property, they must learn how to get rid of them. Luckily, there are a bunch of home-based remedies that can help you deal with fleas. Some of the remedies to help get rid of fleas: This home-based remedy is great as it creates a trap for fleas with dish soap and water. All you would need to do is fill a bowl or dish with a mixture of dish soap and warm water. Then, place this mixture in the room with the most flea infestation. This mixture acts as a glue and traps the fleas as it has high viscosity. Repeat this method a few times with a fresh solution every night. It is best to use this home remedy at night as fleas are nocturnal and are most active at nighttime. This remedy works more effectively if one keeps a candle near the mixture, as insects get attracted to light. If you continue to struggle with the infestation of fleas, you should also consider vacuuming your house regularly. This is a great way to help you get rid of fleas from furniture, carpets, and your pet’s bedding. You can boost this process by sprinkling baking soda around the affected areas before you vacuum the place. One should sprinkle baking soda on furniture and carpets as well. This then needs to be rubbed into the fabric with a hard brush.

Be it cats or dogs, pet owners love to treat their pets with treats. If you are a cat owner, you would love to treat your cats for various reasons to showcase your love and appreciation to them. Unfortunately, this can lead to a lot of health problems of your feline friend, which include a shortened lifespan, obesity, and other conditions. Overeating can also cause harmful effects on the cat’s health. Here are some tips on using food for showing love towards your feline pet without spoiling or harming them: Mix foods If your cat is refusing to eat something new (read: healthy), but still enjoys its old food, then try to mix the two foods for a few days. This will trick it into eating the new healthy food by masking it with the old food that it already likes. This is a good way to transition cats on to a new diet every time you make changes to their diet. Use chicken broth Chicken broth for cats is like tomato ketchup for humans – it makes everything taste better. If your cat is being particularly persnickety about its food, you could add some low-sodium chicken broth in its food for lending it some zing. Hopefully, that will prod your pet cat to eat the new food you put out in their bowl. Cut the scraps In some cases, your cat’s reluctance to eat its food, old or new, could be your fault, especially if it is used to being fed table scraps from your dinner table. In such cases, its palate is likely to prefer food with a little more flavor than what you’re putting out for it. So, you need to stop feeding your cat leftovers from the table. Cut back on the treats Your cat might not be eating its new food because it thinks that it’ll just get its fill of treats across the day.

Dogs are a man’s best friend, and you can feel really anxious if your dog starts having an allergic reaction that makes it uncomfortable. Some of the most common signs of dog allergies are itching, scratching, and chewing. What causes dog allergies? Skin allergies or allergic dermatitis are the most common type of allergies developed by dogs. The prime causes of dog allergies include: Bacterial infections Certain foods which trigger allergic reactions Exposure to various environmental allergens Dog allergies and their natural remedies If your dog is developing any allergic reaction, your vet should be the first person you should reach out to. Besides, there are various natural remedies available for some common dog allergies. These natural remedies are readily available at your home and can relieve your dog from various allergies. Below is a list of dog allergies and their natural remedies for your reference. These natural remedies are very helpful in the treatment of different dog allergies such as dry skin or stomach upset. Vitamin E oil Vitamin E oil is full of antioxidants. Antioxidants primarily fight aging. They work towards the prevention of free radical damage. Free radical damage is the main cause of ageing. Application of vitamin E oil can protect your dog from UV radiation. Thus, it ensures moisturization of their skin and helps in the prevention of conditions like dry skin. Electrolyte-replacing liquids for diarrhea Flavorless electrolyte-replacing liquids help dogs too. During diarrhea, like humans, dogs too lose liquids. In such cases, the electrolyte replacing proves to be helpful among helpful in keeping their liquid level intact. Yogurt Both plain and sweetened yogurt is very healthy for your dog. The probiotics in yogurt help your dog to retain the good bacteria and have a strong intestine. Oatmeal If your dog has developed any symptoms of itchy skin, chickenpox or any such conditions, an oatmeal bath can be very soothing.

Our pets can mean the world to us. With cats being among them and one of the most adored creatures, these furry loved ones deserve great care on our behalf. When it comes to choosing the right foods and healthy diet options for cats, it is essential to choose one that comprises an adequate amount of nutrition with the right protein and healthy fat levels. However, choosing the right one considering the plethora of options available in the market can be a daunting task. In the following, some of the popular food treats for cats and also some healthy diet options have been listed to help you make an informed choice. The price of the product does not always determine the quality of the food. Always read through the ingredients and make sure it meets all essential nutritional values for your pets. Look for high-grade animal and edible proteins, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and carbohydrates which would all make a portion of wholesome food with natural ingredients. Some of the popular food treats with these benefits include the following: Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain-Free Canned Food This product is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that can help in developing and strengthening muscles. It is a wet food with a grain-free chicken recipe. American Journey Grain-Free Dry Cat Food It is a dry variety of grain-free cat food that is made of real meat with digestible resources such as fruits and vegetables that help in easy digestion. Weruva Your cat will love this tasty wet food which is made of natural animal proteins with no added preservatives or artificial coloring. Purina Beyond® Indoor Grain-Free Food A tasty meal for your cat prepared from fresh salmon and chicken is a thickened source of protein and other essential supplements. If packaged food might seem to be expensive at times, cat owners can resort to delicious cat food recipes that they can make from the items available in their pantry.

If you have pet cats at home and occasionally feed them from your plate, you must know which foods are safe for them. Cats can be greedy eaters, and irrespective of the cute faces they make at the dinner table, it’s best not to give them anything besides cat food until you’re a hundred percent sure. To help you, we’ve listed a few human foods that are safe for cats to eat. Salmon Cats love fish, and vets recommend feeding them fish-based cat foods. Most options are rich in omega-3 and other nutrients. Oily fish, in particular, like tuna, salmon, or mackerel, is excellent for their eyesight and joints. However, don’t feed your feline straight from the can; they might lick it too aggressively and cut their tongues. It’s best to provide them with cooked pieces that have no bones. Whole grains Grains are power-packed with nutrients and are healthy for both humans and cats. Oats, mainly, have lots of protein, but not many cats like it. Some cats prefer coarse food made from brown rice and cornmeal. If you’re not feeding your cat meat or fish, whole grains can be a good substitute. You can cook smaller grains like millet, couscous, or wheat berries at home. Boiled eggs Boiled eggs are an excellent source of vitamin B and protein and are healthy for your cat. But ensure the eggs are cooked well to avoid bacteria like salmonella or E. coli from entering your feline’s system. Moreover, some cats can be allergic to eggs, so proceed with caution. Fresh veggies and fruits While not all cats are vegetable and fruit lovers since they cannot taste the sweet flavors, some do nibble on fresh fruits and veggies. Cucumber, cantaloupe, steamed broccoli or asparagus, baked carrots, and green beans have the proper nutrients and minerals.

One loves pampering their pet dogs with the best of foods and treats. This often means that you may indulge in sharing some of your foods with them. But dogs have a different digestive system compared to humans. This means that some of the foods that you enjoy could actually be harmful to them. This article discusses foods that are safe for your dog and provide them with necessary nutrients. Carrots Carrots are known for their nutritional benefits for humans. They are loaded with vitamins and beta-carotene that help promote heart, eyes, and skin health. Carrots are also super good for dogs. Carrots help remove plaque buildup from your pet’s teeth, helping maintain good dental health. Their nutritional content can also help improve a dog’s immune health, promoting a shiny coat and skin. Chicken Dogs love chicken meals and chicken broth, and these foods are also healthy for them. Plain-boiled chicken is a great option for when your dog has an upset tummy. It is important to remember that you should give them this food with little to no seasonings. Popcorn Popcorn is a great snack for humans and dogs. They contain minerals such as magnesium and zinc that can help both you and your dog stay healthy. The only thing that you need to keep in mind when serving your dog popcorn is that the snack needs to be completely devoid of any butter, salt, or sugar. Ensure that you do not give them any uncooked kernels, as this can cause them to choke. While human foods act as great treats for your dog, you may want to consider dog food for all your pet’s nutritional needs. Some of the most popular brands of dog food include the following. Royal Canin Royal Canin is one of the most popular dog food brands across the globe.

Keeping your dogs safe from fleas and ticks can be an exhausting job. The constant scratching and biting can be tiring and unhealthy. Not only this, it can bring down the mood of your furry friend, affecting the whole household. Therefore, it is better to stay prepared in case of an unforeseen pest attack. This article talks about some effective and accessible natural remedies that will give you and your dogs some much-needed relief. Home remedies for fleas and ticks in dogs Natural oils Natural or essential oils must be diluted first, after which you can use them as a spray or a pre-bath rinse. Alternatively, you can dilute them with carrier oils and massage them into their coat. Whatever you do, make sure to get your vet’s approval beforehand. Garlic Garlic has various nutritional benefits apart from being an antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral agent. Don’t get too concerned about its strong odor. Add a small amount of crushed garlic to your pet’s food and watch this natural remedy work its magic. Vinegar Another natural remedy that is not only easily accessible but can double up as a flea and tick repellant for dogs is vinegar. You can dilute it with water and use it as a spray. Or, if your dog does not mind its taste, add very small amounts of it to their drinking water. Similarly, you can also make use of apple cider vinegar. While these are all commonly used natural remedies, some pet parents prefer trying medicated ointments or powders to help their dogs get rid of fleas and ticks. It is recommended to consult a vet to know the best course of action before proceeding. Medications for fleas and ticks in dogs FRONTLINE® Plus A powerful topical solution, it can beat ticks and fleas at all stages of their lifecycle.

Like humans, dogs, too, tend to develop certain rashes, allergies, and skin problems. While getting veterinary help is essential, minor problems can always be resolved with an effective home remedy. So, if you look to eliminate itchiness, discomfort, and redness in dogs, here are a few effective natural remedies to try out. Oat baths When it comes to doggy allergies, an oat bath is an excellent remedy. It washes away any allergens stuck on the dog’s coat and reduces inflammation. One must never use it during a yeast infection, as it can make it worse. To make an oat bath, one has to grind sugar-free, organic oats into a fine powder and then boil it with water. Using this to bathe the dog will provide them with relief. Apple cider vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a powerful antibacterial and antifungal agent. It can be used to clean a dog’s paws, ears and even fight off yeast infections. All one needs to do is take a clean spray bottle and add apple cider vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio and spray it on the dog’s itchy spots for relief. Nonetheless, one must not spray it on wounds or bites. Baking soda Baking soda is an easily available and effective way to provide relief to itching caused by dog allergies. Create a simple paste using baking soda and water, and apply it to the dog’s itchy spots to alleviate itchiness and redness. Let it sit for 20 minutes before rinsing it off thoroughly. One can also add a little coconut oil to provide the dog with some moisturizing goodness. Aloe vera Aloe vera gel contains antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that help treat several problems. It reduces redness and discomfort, treats burns and itchiness, and provides cooling. Its application is simple:

One of the biggest concerns that trouble pet owners during summers are the flea and tick problem. While there are many over-the-counter and prescription products that help manage the infestation, it is always better to first explore homemade remedies made with ingredients found in the kitchen. Here are some common preventive measures that include homemade sprays, topical remedies, and even general hygiene that can help keep such infestations at bay. Vinegar spray Vinegar is one of the more effective ingredients among other natural remedies for dog flea and tick control prevention. Fleas and ticks cannot survive the pH levels of apple cider vinegar and are eliminated upon contact. Use the diluted homemade spray once or twice a month to prevent infestations. You can also prepare a cider-based vinegar shampoo by mixing some soap into the solution. Give lather baths twice or thrice a month to control flea and tick infestation. Lemon wash and baths Citrus fruits work as a potent repellent to counter flea and tick infestations. And lemon juice is one of the common suggestions for a topical spray. You can cut some lemons and keep them immersed in boiling water overnight. Strain the liquid the next day and use a simple spray applicator to spread the solution evenly over your pet’s coat. Cover the area under the fur, behind the ears, around the legs, and most importantly, all over the tail. If you prefer a lotion, simply mix some salt and dilute the lemons in boiling water. Apply this homemade lotion after shampooing and conditioning, and make sure you coat the fur properly. Essential oils Lavender, lemongrass, peppermint, rosemary, cedar, citronella, and eucalyptus essential oils are excellent herbal flea and tick repellents. Once you are sure that your pet is not allergic to any of these oils, you can prepare a strong shampoo or topical spray to counter the infestation.